CASEY has weathered a tough introduction to its 2024 campaign, battling a star-studded Box Hill Hawks in a triple-figure defeat at Casey Fields.
The Demons were outclassed by a Box Hill Hawks line-up featuring 10 AFL-listed players, including former Demon Casey Sherriff stepping out against her former side.
The match commenced with a burst of energy from the Demons, as recruit Sarah D’Arcy set the tone with an opening goal within minutes.
However, Box Hill quickly found their rhythm, showcasing their run-and-carry game to secure the next five goals of the quarter.
Despite valiant efforts from the Demons, they struggled to halt the Hawks' momentum, trailing by 27 points at quarter time.
The second quarter saw Box Hill maintain their dominance early on with a couple of quick goals. Nevertheless, the Casey Demons began to find their footing, displaying promising signs with repeat inside 50 entries.
Despite the scoreboard not reflecting their efforts, the Demons managed to stem the flow of Box Hill's attack, allowing them to regroup at halftime.
The third quarter began unfavourably for the Demons, conceding an early goal to Box Hill.
However, Casey gradually clawed their way back into the contest. Lauren Jatczak emerged as a key target across the half-forward line, showcasing her marking prowess.
Despite Casey's persistence, Box Hill continued to capitalise on counterattacks, stretching their lead. Nonetheless, Jatczak's maiden VFLW goal provided a glimmer of hope for the Demons.
Relentless in their efforts, Casey Demons ultimately succumbed to a talented Box Hill outfit in round one of the season.
Stand-in skipper Meg Macdonald battled hard all day along with Soph Casey and Shree Fairchild.
While the result may not have gone their way, the Demons can take this as an opportunity to learn and regroup. Their focus now shifts to the next challenge as they prepare to face the Western Bulldogs next Saturday.
Casey Demons 2.2.14
Box Hill Hawks 19.8.122
Goals: Sarah D’Arcy, Lauren Jatczak
Key Players: Soph Casey (20), Meg Macdonald (17), Shree Fairchild (16), Lauren Jatczak (14)
Next Game: V Western Bulldogs, 11:05 am Saturday 30th March 2024 @ Casey Fields
