Sport
5 June, 2026
Carisbrook nearly slay Dragon
A sharpshooting Carisbrook found themselves within touching distance of their second win of the season on Sunday before a rampaging third quarter allowed East Point to take a thrilling 16-point victory.
The Lady Redbacks left the Dragons shell-shocked at half time, leading by 11 points after booting an immaculate 4.0 in the first half.
East Point responded with 26 unanswered points in the third quarter, keeping pace with the Ballarat Women’s Football League top four after taking a gripping game at Carisbrook Recreation Reserve.
Despite the disheartening defeat, Sunday’s exhilarating encounter was a special moment for veteran Tara Curtis, who celebrated her 100th career game.
Curtis wasn’t the only addition for Carisbrook after their 98-point defeat to Darley in their last match before their round eight bye, joined by Arna Tatchell, Chelsea Rinaldi, Abbey Klemm, Charlotte Metters, Quetta Holloway-Jinks, Ashlyne McInnes, Tracey Naughton, Chelcee and Kimberley Whittingslow.
After challenging East Point in a highly competitive 25-point defeat back in round two, Carisbrook were confident they could once again test last season’s preliminary finalist on home soil.
Even with their interval belief, the Lady Redbacks exceeded all expectations in the first quarter, kicking three consecutive goals to boast a 16-point lead at the opening interval.
The captivating Charlottes of Charlotte Cain and Metters were instrumental in Carisbrook’s blistering start, improving their team’s effectiveness around the contest alongside ruckman Emme Johnson.
The Dragons looked to rectify their early deficit following the break, seizing control of the second quarter with six scoring shots to Carisbrook’s one.
However, the constant pressure of the Lady Redbacks’ defence, led by stalwarts Danae Every and Olivia Butler, caused the Dragons to be wasteful with their chances. That allowed the hosts to preserve an 11-point advantage at the main break.
East Point wouldn’t make the same mistake to start the second half, finishing with 4.2 in the third term that completely changed the game’s complexion.
The Lady Redbacks attempted to eliminate their three-quarter time deficit by adding two late goals, but it wasn’t enough as East Point survived a major scare to boot a winning 7.10.(52) to Carisbrook’s 6.0.(36).
Fresh off her spectacular form for the Laverton Magpies, Holloway-Jinks made an immediate impact in her return for the Lady Redbacks, headlined by two well-taken goals. She was named among the host’s best players alongside Cain, Butler, Metters, Johnson and Every.
Seemingly everything Klemm touched turned to goals on Sunday, leading Carisbrook’s goalkickers with three majors.
Carisbrook will travel to Alfredton Recreation Reserve on Sunday, June 14, in their next match, taking on the fourth-placed Ballarat Swans.