Pearce has blinder for Demons

A STAR turn by Melbourne skipper Daisy Pearce has helped the Demons to a 14point AFL Women’s win over the Western Bulldogs.

Pearce amassed 26 possessions last night in an eyecatching performance in the clash between the two pioneer clubs of women’s football, Melbourne prevailing 6.7 (43) to 4.5 (29) at Whitten Oval.

Alyssa Mifsud was also important for the Demons with three goals, while Karen Paxman (27 possessions) and Elise O’Dea (19) were influential.

Ellie Blackburn and Emma Kearney were the standouts for the Dogs with 26 and 25 touches respectively, but the home side didn’t have enough contributors. The Dogs, missing injured skipper Katie Brennan, clawed their way to a twopoint lead at the first break, but didn’t manage a score in the second term as the Demons made their move.

With goals to Deanna Berry, Harriet Cordner and Mifsud, Melbourne took a 14point lead into the third quarter. The Bulldogs slashed that gap to just three points midway through the term, but Mifsud imposed herself on the contest with two quick goals.

Hayley Wildes kept her side in it with the first goal of the final term, but Mel Hickey converted a free kick for the Demons after a penalty.