St Kilda Pulls Off Historic Comeback Victory Against Port Adelaide
Jesse Wardlaw's impressive four-goal performance spearheaded St Kilda to a remarkable 11-point victory over Port Adelaide on Sunday. The win, secured at RSEA Park, marks the biggest comeback in AFLW history, overcoming a 27-point deficit.
The Turning Point
Trailing significantly, St Kilda mounted a spirited fightback in the final quarter, fueled by Wardlaw’s three consecutive goals. With the margin narrowed to just two points, Georgia Patrikios seized the moment, launching the Saints into the lead for the first time in the game. The final score read St Kilda 8.5 (53) to Port Adelaide 6.6 (42).
Key Moments and Controversies
A pivotal moment occurred when Port’s Sachi Syme conceded a free kick for holding Patrikios. However, Piper Window compounded the error by incorrectly handing the ball to Syme, resulting in an additional 50-metre penalty. Patrikios capitalized on the opportunity, easily scoring, and Amber Clarke added the final touch to seal the victory. St Kilda dominated the final quarter, kicking six goals without reply.
Standout Performances
Wardlaw finished the game with a game-high four goals from 13 possessions and eight marks. Tyanna Smith was instrumental in the midfield, recording 24 disposals and five clearances. Despite suffering a broken nose in the second quarter after a collision with teammate Smith, Saints captain Hannah Priest bravely continued to play.
Match Summary
Port Adelaide started strongly, kicking four goals to one point in the opening term. Window scored a sensational goal from outside the 50-metre arc, aided by a selfless shepherd from teammate Indy Tahau. While Lauren Arnell's team responded in the third quarter with goals from Katelyn Pope and Tahau, it wasn't enough to hold off the determined St Kilda side. Abbey Dowrick (17 disposals, six clearances) was Port’s best, while Matilda Scholz (30 hitouts) dominated in the ruck. Gemma Houghton also contributed with two goals for the Power.
League Standings and Future Outlook
Nick Dal Santo’s St Kilda have now won three consecutive games and could potentially move as high as seventh in the standings with a 4-3 record. Conversely, Port Adelaide currently sits in 14th place with a 2-5 record, with only five games remaining in the 12-round season. St. Kilda have shown tremendous resilience and will be looking to continue their winning streak.