Round 1 WAFLW Match Report – Claremont Tigers Vs East Fremantle Sharks:

By Seb Hasluck

The Claremont Tigers prevailed in a nail-biting game on Sunday for the opening round of the 2023 season, demonstrating to East Fremantle why they are still kings of the football jungle after winning the grand final last year. Whilst Claremont was held scoreless in the first quarter, the Tigers managed to climb their way back to defeat East Fremantle 4.3 (27) to 2.9 (21).

Whilst the Round 1 match took place on neutral territory at Joondalup’s Pentanet stadium, both teams displayed a high level of intensity with a strong supporter base at their backs. The highly contested match meant that the pressure was on early for the Tigers as the ball was held up in stoppages. This allowed Matilda Dyke to shine in the ruckwork as she walked away with 26 hit outs and 5 tackles.

The backline stood strong throughout the game with a strong Sharks outfit consistently attacking their forward 50. The Tigers capability to leave their marked player to find space to intercept, was instrumental to the success on the day. Jayme Harken and Jacinta Valentini were major contributors in this area as they lead the marking count with 6 each for the day, to go with their 17 and 14 possessions respectively. As play started to open up in the second quarter Valentini was able to add to her stat line with two pivotal goals, which took Claremont to a one-point lead heading into half time.

Claremont looked for alternative avenues of play as they looked for more free flowing ball movement in the second half. This allowed players to spread wide and win the ball as Claire Ortlepp managed to rack up 19 disposals to go along with 5 marks and 3 tackles.

Whilst heading into the fourth quarter two points down it was influential moments from Adele Arnup and Rachel Ortlepp that helped seal the game. Adele Arnup was able to kick the only goal of the last quarter to put Claremont in front. Whilst co-captain Rachel Ortlepp was a general in defence, leading her defensive line to protect the lead in the remaining minutes.

This strong first round performance not only indicates a successful pre-season but showcases that this Tigers side is up for the challenge to win back-to-back premierships.  Next Sunday Claremont faces off against Peel Thunder at the same time slot of 2pm, where the Tigers are hopeful to notch up their fourth win in a row against the opposition. This game will take place at Revo Fitness Stadium where the premiers will be able to unfurl their 2022 flag and hang it proudly from their Claremont rooftops.

Claremont Goal Scorers:

Jacinta Valentini 2, Adele Arnup 1, Amelie Moe 1

Top Claremont Disposals:

Claire Ortlepp 19, Jayme Harken 17, Kate Orme 16, Jacinta Valentini 14, Jasmin Stewart 13