Two goals by Deven Jackson spearheaded a slick performance by Eastern Suburbs as they coasted to a 4-0 win against Western Springs to take the national women’s title.
Suburbs took charge early in the Women’s National League’s Grand Final and were superior in all departments — deadly up front, hardworking in the middle and a clean sheet to top things off.
Main photo: Eastern Suburbs … national champions.Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
Suburbs had their first chance in the eighth minute when Olivia Page shot just over the Springs bar.
A minute later, the Lilywhites went ahead. Suburbs’ Tayla O’Brien, inspirational throughout the game, drove to the byline and pulled the ball across the goal for Jackson whose shot came off the post and went into the net off the back of goalkeeper Angelique Tuisamoa.
Midway through the half, Springs got their first chance when Rina Hirano, playing her last game for the side, lined up a shot but its deflected wide by Suburbs skipper Rebekah van Dort.
On the half hour, Springs’ Celia Mayo cleared off the line when Charlotte Wilford Carroll’s effort appeared goalbound.
Springs striker Sofia Garcia broke clear in the 37th minute and shot wide from 25 metres.
A minute later, Nicole Mettam fired a shot which Tuisamoa tipped over the bar.
Three minutes before the break, Suburbs doubled their lead when a Jackson shot rebounded off a defender and Saki Yoshida was perfectly placed to slot the ball home.
In the second half, Tuisamoa kept Springs in the game with a series of saves.
She blocked a Jackson effort; O’Brien then struck the ball against the post.
In the 52nd minute, Springs had their best chance when Sam Tawharau’s shot hit the post.
A minute later, Jackson struck again, to give Suburbs a 3-0 lead. O’Brien made another piercing run to the byline, dragged the ball back and Jackson was there to score when Tuisamao’s save fell to her.
With seven minutes left, Jackson wrapped up the title with another goal. Twice she shot and twice her efforts were blocked — but not a third time as she swept the ball high into the net.
Jackson was named Most Valuable Player for the final.
Highlights
Result
Game played on Sunday December 18, 2022
Eastern Suburbs 4 (Own goal 9′, Deven Jackson 53′, 83′, Saki Yoshida 42′)
Western Springs 0
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