Rangers 45 defeated by Roar 54
The first Open Division game of the season set the tone for what will no doubt be a competitive year. The last time they met in 2023, the Western Roar had a winning margin of 17 goals, this time around Rangers were more competitive. Rangers by two goals at the first break with shooting trio Georgia Pitt, Kathryne Bryne and Abbey Hicks impressing in the goal circle. The close game was a testament to the work Rangers have put in over the pre-season, coming back stronger than ever this year. Ultimately the Roar took control during the third quarter, gaining a six-goal lead which they used to control the final quarter to take home the win, demonstrating why they were grand finalists last year.
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Demons 51 defeated by Sharks 55
An absolute nail-biter of a game between the Demons and Sharks, the opening round of the season may have given supporters flashbacks to their equally tense elimination round last year. The Demons took a six-goal lead into quarter time, opening the game with three straight goals by pair Meg Gallager and Ashleigh Neal. Gallager fought for her team with an impressive 34 goals throughout the game. The Sharks shooting duo Sophie Eastaugh and Georgie Cleaver came back fighting with 28 and 24 respectively to guarantee the team the tight win. With only a four-goal margin between the two, it will be interesting to see what both sides can achieve this season, especially next time they face each other. The match also marked the return of West Coast Fever Training Partner Ruth Aryang for the Sharks. Aryang missed the entire 2023 season due to a serious knee injury and this game was a huge step forward in her recovery.
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Comets 54 defeated Lighting 36
The reigning premiers displayed why they took out the title last year, starting season 2024 with an 18-goal win over the Lightning. The Comets’ Aitaua Enari managed 33 goals across the game, aided by new recruit Emma Cosh and Madeline Ash to make up their impressive 54 goals. Although a loss, the Lighting put up a strong contest in the first round for a team who came seventh last year starting the season playing the reigning premiers was no easy task. Lightning shortened their losing margin to the Comets by 15 goals since last time they met which demonstrates the work, they have been putting in during pre-season.
Souwest Jets 34 defeated by West Coast Warriors 63
The Warriors came out swinging taking a 10-goal lead into quarter time to start the game off in a dominant position. New recruit Jamaica Jauncey is going to be a Warriors’ player to keep your eye on this season. She shot a magnificent 41 goals across the four quarters.
The Warriors kept their lead for the entire game in a strong start to the season and a demonstration that they are hunting wins in 2024. Jets newcomer Rylee Hall came into her first game for the team and shot 18 goals, although the team suffered a loss their grit during the game is proof if they stick to their focus of communication and accountability the squad can find success this season.
Remember you can watch GIG WANL live on Streamer with two matches broadcasted each week.
You can also watch matches on-demand, so why not watch the two matches from Round One on Streamer today:
Rangers v Roar
Demons v Sharks
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