Murray powered past Gippsland Power by 47 points to register its first win of the NAB League girls under-19 season.
The Bushies overcame a scrappy first half of football to run away with a convincing 7.6 (48) to 0.1 (1) victory in the round seven encounter at Highgate Reserve.
Murray's assistant coach Mario de Santa-ana said the result would benefit the young and inexperienced outfit for the remainder of the season.
“It was a really good win by the group. The whole coaching staff is super proud of them,” he said.
“Given the age and inexperience of the players, it gives them a huge boost of self-confidence that they can compete and compete extremely well.
“In the previous month we have played well, but it has been one quarter that has blown us away. Now they know what intensity and level they must be at going forward.”
The contest was a real arm-wrestle in the opening half, with one goal kicked and just nine points separating the two outfits.
But Murray came out after the main break with vigorous intent.
“We had most of the play in the first half, but we just had a problem scoring goals,” de Santa-ana said.
“But after the break our transition was quick, we were clean with the ball and our kicks went long and direct which resulted in goals."
Leading the way was Shepparton United product Aurora Smith, with the teenager racking up 25 disposals, six inside 50s and five tackles in a best-afield performance.
It was the talented winger's third best-on effort from five games.
United teammate Molly Kennedy was huge across defence with nine tackles, while debutant and United product Santina Rossignuolo showcased incredible tenacity around the contest with seven bruising tackles.
Finley products Lily Sharp and Olivia Cicolini were lively up forward and each booted two goals.
“Aurora put in a real quality performance,” de Santa-ana said.
“Nobody could match her leg speed and she also played a bit inside with plenty of intensity. She is playing in super form and she continues to impress each week.
“We had a good spread of contributors, but Molly was super down back. Both Lily and Olivia were strong in attack and we were really impressed with first-gamer Santina.
“She was super competitive and we loved her work.”
THE GAME
Murray Bushrangers 1.1, 1.4, 5.5, 7.6 (48)
Gippsland Power 0.0, 0.1, 0.1, 0.1 (1)
Bushies goals: Lily Sharp, Olivia Cicolini 2, Kate Adams, Sophia McCarthy, Ally Morphett
Bushies best: Aurora Smith, Zara Hamilton, India Lehman, Ally Morphett, Kristy Whitehead, Bonny McKean
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