Port Adelaide senior coach Lauren Arnell said she was pleased with her side’s 19-point win over the Western Bulldogs at Alberton, crediting the team’s impressive offensive work and sustained pressure.
Speaking to the media under lights at Alberton Oval post-game, Arnell reflected on the group’s strong response following a disappointing loss and their ability to produce four consistent quarters.
With a focus on composure and pressure, Indy Tahau starred with four goals, while Lauren Young celebrated her first at AFLW level. In the midfield, Shineah Goody and Abbey Dowrick laid nine tackles each, supported by Matilda Scholz’s dominant performance, recording 26 hit-outs and 18 disposals.
Arnell on the 19-point win against the Western Bulldogs
“The most pleasing part is our group's response. We've had some challenges with second halves, and particularly last quarters. The Bulldogs turned up in a strong fashion and applied a lot of pressure, particularly in that first half. I’m really proud and pleased with the group's response when things weren't necessarily on our terms earlier in the game.
“For our group to be able to take the learnings that we needed to and respond in the way that we asked of them, and to double down on the things that we do well - which is show up with pressure and really aggressive offence - I think we had six goals in that second half, which is our offence and what was required to win this game today. I’m pleased with that response, and the belief that they had for each other, and the want to play their own roles.”
Arnell on Indy Tahau’s four-goal performance
“There's a bit of an inside joke about her lack of celebrations at the moment, but she's certainly having a strong season when coming back from such a long time (on the sidelines) with her ACL injury. Preparing largely in the preseason to play as a defender this year, and with the injuries that we've had - particularly with Julia Teakle out of the side - Indy swinging forward and playing her role down there, she's been exceptional. She’s really adding a different dynamic down there for us, which has been important.”
Arnell on the group’s ability to play a stronger second half
“I think it's belief and our players understanding what they're capable of. A big part of what we do as a whole coaching group is continuing to reinforce what the group's capable of and what we need from them to do that. I think it does come down to belief and supporting one another out there. I think the players should take a huge amount of credit for that.”
Arnell on Lauren Young kicking her first goal at AFLW level
“It’s been a long time coming for Lozzy. I think the first goal is one thing, and her first win is a whole other thing. I thought her four-quarter performance, to show up and compete in the way that she did, was exceptional. I couldn't be happier for her.”
Arnell on the team’s finals hopes
“We're obviously worrying about each week as it comes. I'd never shy away from wanting to play finals. This group has a long way to go in that space, but it was an important win for us tonight. Most importantly, just the way that we responded and what was required for four quarters of footy when things weren't necessarily on our terms early, was really important.”
