SHARP SHOOTING

ST JOSEPH’S coach Riley Richardson says Saturday’s win over Bell Park has fuelled belief his side can challenge some of the GFL’s best.

Joeys’ attacking end proved the difference in the 11-goal win, slotting 50 from 56 at 89 per cent compared with Bell Park’s 68 per cent (39 from 57).

Georgia Clark defied the blustery conditions, shooting 29 from 30 to help keep Joeys firmly in the finals equation as jostling for position heats up.

“Our patience and focus were key points to our win,” Richardson said.

“We used the ball effectively and were able to shut down Bell Park and prevent them from gaining momentum.”

The game was close until halftime, with St Joseph’s only up by two goals (22-20) before seizing the momentum in the third quarter.

It opened up a 10-goal advantage at the final break that set up the win.

“Our change came at quarter-time,” Richardson said.

“We identified that we needed to ensure we used the ball effectively until the right goaling option was available.”

Joeys are among a cluster of mid-table teams fighting for one of the last spots in the top five.

“Watching our girls play today, I believe that we are capable of pushing the teams above us,” Richardson said.

The loss puts a dent in Bell Park’s finals chances, and the Dragons need to refocus and revert back to the united front they are known to be.

Bell Park coach Jackie Riddle believes her team has not been working as a collective unit.

“The synergy between M. Winch 25, B. Walton 14. G. Clark 29, K. Keepen 21.

A. McCooke, L. Giles, K. Sheringham. G. Clark, M. Jovic, M. Livesey.