Port Adelaide senior coach Lauren Arnell has reflected on her team’s thrilling two-point win over a previously undefeated Melbourne at Alberton Oval, crediting the side’s pressure and willingness to compete.
Speaking to the media post-game, Arnell praised her team’s relentless pressure, strength in the contest, and motivation to respond after a disappointing loss to the Eagles in Round 5.
She also highlighted the standout performances of Abbey Dowrick and Ash Woodland who led the midfield and commended the backline for standing tall in crucial moments as Melbourne pressed late.
Port Adelaide will return to Alberton next Saturday to face Geelong at 12:35pm ACST. Tickets are on sale now.
Arnell on her side’s two-point win against an undefeated Melbourne
“The key to today's performance was really just helping the group get back to what we do best. I think our pressure was the best it’s been all season, and we were bold with our offense and strong in the contest. To be really honest, we were so disappointed with how inconsistent we were in that area last week in Perth – so today was a really nice, healthy lesson for our group in what we’re capable of.”
“We know Melbourne are a high handball team, and they’re a quality side. For us, it was about knowing that if we bring that level of pressure and contest, the rest of our game builds from there. We’re really proud of the girls’ response, particularly after returning from Perth.”
“We’ve spoken as a group about showing up and giving the best of ourselves – and when we do that, we get results. Credit to Melbourne – they’re a really good side and have had an epic start to the season. They certainly challenged us today. To our fans as well – being able to play here at Alberton, in front of 2,700 people, is so special. We absolutely love playing here, and we can’t wait to be back again next weekend.”
“Every win is important, but being two and three now, and returning home to Alberton this week and next, we’ll celebrate this one and be proud of the steps forward we’ve taken. Then within 48 hours, we’ll set our eyes firmly on next Saturday here at home.”
Arnell on the midfield’s performance
“I think Abbey (Dowrick) and Ash (Woodland) really led our midfield; they were exceptional. For the two of them to show up the way they did and lead from the front – I’m really, really proud of them. Our back line too – they stood tall in some really big moments today.”
Arnell on Indy Tahau’s move to the forward line
“Indy’s kicked eight goals in three weeks since we moved her forward against the SUNS. She’s such a dynamic player. I thought her ability to stay in the contest was exceptional. She had a taller opponent for most of the day, but her desire to compete allowed her to hit the scoreboard, and she had teammates around her who really wanted to support her in those contests.”
Arnell on Jasmine Evans’ debut
“Jas making her debut in such a hotly contested game – I thought she was able to show, at times, her real weapons, particularly her ball use early. I’m really pleased for her to play her first game for Port Adelaide.”
