VFLW: Hawthorn shows great defensive intent but Southern Saints hold sway

While its recent winning streak ended, Hawthorn took a lot out of its tough defensive scrap with the Southern Saints

Hawthorn's Rebecca Beeson is caught by Southern Saints’ Alison Brown. Picture: Josie Hayden

Hawthorn’s recent winning run came to an end at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday after the Southern Saints edged home by just three points in a tough, defensive VFLW arm wrestle.

Fiona Steiert kicked the only goal of the first half and the Saints led 1.1 (7) to 0.1 (1) at the long break.

The Hawks hit the front with final-quarter goals from Phoebe McWilliams and Emily Gilder.

But, midway through the final term, Kate Shierlaw converted a free kick and the Saints held on 2.5 (17) to 2.2 (14).

Hawks coach Patrick Hill said he took plenty out of the committed defence his side put up from the opening bounce.

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Hawthorn’s Phoebe McWilliams marks despite attention from Southern Saints’ Alice Ryan. Picture: Josie Hayden

“They (Saints) rank the highest in uncontested possession and they also have four really tall forwards,” he said. “For us to win the game we couldn’t allow that, we couldn’t have an uncontested game.

“We laid something like 88 tackles. Our effort and intensity was good.

“We kept them to one goal for more than three-quarters of the game.”

Unfortunately, rubbing salt into the Hawks’ wounds, the Saints scored their goals from free kicks, Shierlaw’s matchwinner coming from a difficult position on the boundary.

“We take a lot out of the game,” Hill said. “We were able to adjust our game plan. And full credit to St Kilda, they defended really well too.

“On paper 2.5 to 2.2 doesn’t look great. But, tactically, it was a really good game of footy.”

Hawthorn entered the game with a long injury list that included Meg Hutchins, Olivia Flanagan, Ebony Nixon and Ellie Macdonald.

“To overcome that and go within three points, I’m really proud,” Hill said.

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