Streaking Falcons facing a challenge

GEELONG Falcons coach Jason Armistead says the challenge of staying undefeated will provide an area for development in his girls.

The TAC Cup ladder leader after five rounds faces Eastern Ranges tomorrow, a side that has dropped just one game.

But the Falcons welcome back four stars in Nina Morrison, Olivia Purcell, Lucy McEvoy and Denby Taylor, as they return from the AFL Women’s Academy Squad, while Eliza Shannon is not far off a comeback from injury.

Armistead said tomorrow would again give him a gauge on how well his side was performing.

“Eastern have been going really well, so it’s another good test for us,” he said.

“We did speak about a couple little areas that Eastern do well, but we think the way we play will suit that as well.

“They’re quite quick on the outside, obviously it’s going to be a nice day as well, so it’s just going to be a matter of making sure that when they do win the footy, that they aren’t able to use that outside run.”

Armistead said his players would grow under the pressure of trying to stay undefeated, regardless of the result.

“Now the girls are going to have that experience of expec- tation and trying to win and play consistent footy, and I think that’s part of their development as well,” he said.

“When you are up the top at this level, there are other little experiences that will help in their development to be senior football players.

“The development comes from the mental side of the game as well as the physical and skills side of things, so we get to see how our girls handle the expectation.

“Whether they fail or succeed, it becomes a good learning opportunity, whether they’re playing AFLW, VFLW or local footy.”

The match is at 12.45pm at McDonald Reserve, Belmont.