Hobart Zebras have come from behind to defeat Olympia FC Warriors 2-1 in an absolute thriller at KGV Park and in the process winning the Women’s Super League title for the second time in 3 years.
Olympia started the better of the two. Zebra’s keeper Shelley Cook had to make continuous saves early. Despite the pressure from Olympia the visitors were unable to get the breakthrough in the first-half. Half time Zebras 0 – Warriors 0
Warrior’s Olivia Bomford scored from a set piece in the second-half. Bomford’s shot hit the crossbar to land past Cook to gift the Eastern Shore side the lead.
Olympia were now in the driving seat, if they held on from here they would be champions.
Zebras cancelled out the lead shortly after in the 61st minute. Midfielder Allie Berry spotted keeper Jenna Farrow off her line. Berry lobbed over her head and it was suddenly 1-1 in a matter of minutes. In the process it flipped the title advantage back to Hobart due to their impressive goal difference. A draw would be enough to secure the championship.
Zebra’s Jessie Williams was a late sub replacement for Taylor Rand. Williams had just finished a TSLW game across the Tasman Bridge for Clarence so her commitment to playing both is great. Especially given the magnitude of how big the final day for the WSL was.
Williams sealed the win for the Zebras in the dying stages! After a fantastic run and set up play from Zoe Nichols, Williams calmly finished past Farrow to give the Zebras the 3 points, the win and the title!
WSL 2019 was one of the more exciting seasons in Tasmanian football in recent memory and it’s been a pleasure to cover.
Olympia have nothing to be ashamed of for their efforts this season. Warrior’s coach Alastair Russell would be proud of their hunger throughout the campaign.
This was a landmark day for women’s football in Tasmania. It was great to see a sellout crowd which shows that these women can draw the fans in.
Congratulations to Zebra’s Manager Chris Hey and his troops for pulling the comeback off and claiming the WSL title.
Bring on 2020. Will we bring in some new teams into the mix? Perhaps a new champion? Or will the Warriors claim the title?
Either way, Women’s football is here to stay.
And it’s a pleasure to bring you coverage.
Keep raising the bar ladies.
