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Railways enjoy much-needed win in lead-up to GFLW finals

Neale HarveyKalgoorlie Miner
Boulder’s Nelly Bumpu and Railways’ Kaylah Mulvaney during their Goldfields Football League women’s clash.
Camera IconBoulder’s Nelly Bumpu and Railways’ Kaylah Mulvaney during their Goldfields Football League women’s clash. Credit: Carwyn Monck/Kalgoorlie Miner

Railways will tackle the upcoming Goldfields Football League women’s finals with renewed confidence after Jess Coad’s two goals led the squad to a 25-point win, 4.10 (34) to 1.3 (9), over Boulder last weekend.

The Panthers were newcomers this season in an expanded four-team competition and grabbed a third win in what coach Cory Jones said was a much-needed boost heading into this Sunday’s clash with first-placed Kalgoorlie.

Railways have a bye to finish the qualifiers the following weekend ahead of a first semifinal clash.

Mines Rovers are second with five wins and a game and percentage clear of Boulder, with the Digger Daws Oval co-tenants clashing in round 17 this Saturday.

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The Diorites then battle Kalgoorlie, who are guaranteed the minor premiership, in round 18.

Railways celebrated their GFLW debut in April by upsetting defending premiers Boulder and followed up in round five by beating Mines Rovers.

But the reality of a tough season kicked in and they lost the next six before breaking the drought against the Tigers.

“After that (initial success), it got a lot tougher and teams started taking us a lot more seriously,” Jones said.

“Overall, the competition has definitely got tougher and there’s not a lot between us, with Kalgoorlie the exception.

“It meant we had to really put in the hard work, so it was nice to get a win again.”

Jones hopes his squad can perform well against Kalgoorlie, who have lost once all season, before launching an inaugural finals assault.

“The girls are looking forward to what lies ahead full of confidence but with a fair few nerves, too,” Jones said.

“They go into every game very nervous because it’s still quite surreal for them.

“In fairness to Boulder, they’re struggling to have their full numbers available and no doubt will be a different test again come the finals.

“But anything’s possible and hopefully we can do everything right.”

Jones lauded his players for the level of improvement in a short space of time.

“Some of them have only played four or five games, so it’s still very new for them as they gradually build a feel for the game,” he said.

“But I’ve just really enjoyed watching the girls improve week-in, week-out and play tougher, harder footy.

“There were no expectations at the start of the season and there still aren’t because we’re still a new team.

“We’re celebrating the little things among the group and every single weekend, they’re building and improving.

“At the end of the season, for all of us, it will be a win at any rate because it’s been marvellous and the club couldn’t be prouder to be involved.

“It’s been a magical season as it stands already.”

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