The Casey Demons VFLW side fell narrowly short against Sandringham in a thrilling Round 2 contest at RSEA Park on Saturday, going down by just two points. Despite a spirited final-quarter surge, Sandringham held on to get the 4.2 (26) to 3.6 (24) victory.

Sandringham controlled much of the early play, maintaining the lead at each breakthrough with their efficient ball movement and ability to capitalise on forward 50 entries. Casey showed strong intent around the contest, with the defensive pressure of Meg Macdonald and Megan Fitzsimon instrumental in restricting Sandringham to just two goals across the opening half.

Zoe Mitchell found an important spark during the second quarter, capitalising on an opportunity in front of goal to kickstart Casey’s momentum. However, the Demons struggled to maintain that energy after half-time, with Sandringham regaining control in the third term and extending their lead.

Despite falling behind in the third, Casey demonstrated tremendous resilience and fight in the final quarter. The Dees lifted their intensity across the ground, attacking forward with purpose and kicking two crucial goals through Alice Robinson and Mitchell to bring the margin within a couple of points. In a nail-biting finish, Casey battled it out but the Zebras’ defence held firm, locking the ball outside the Demons’ forward 50 and denying a late breakthrough in the final minutes. 

While the result did not fall in Casey’s favour, the fourth quarter effort and ability to stay in the contest were clear positives as the group looks ahead to Round 3.

SANDRINGHAM               2.0       2.0       4.1        4.2 (26)
CASEY                               0.0       1.3       1.4        3.6 (24)

GOALS
Sandringham: Shepard, Locke, Clarke, Brazzale
Casey: Mitchell (2), Robinson (1)

DISPOSALS
Sandringham: Baskaran (21), Fowler (18), Forbes (15), Tregellis & Friend (14)
Casey: Fitzsimon (32), Macdonald (17), Dethridge (15), Williams (14), Taylor (13)