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With the 2005 success now in the history books it was time to see if the Atlanta Lady Kookaburras were also going to be the team to beat in 2006. Originally to be a showcase event during the USAFL East v West All Star games the Kookas landed in Sarasota FL for a single challenge game against the Florida Fusion, the team they beat to win last years National Championship. Hot conditions were the order of the day as if there was any doubt for July in Florida. The Florida set up a great field for the game at the Polo Fields location which was welcomed by all women's players and we're sure the men's as well gathering for a special game after the women's match. The first quarter of 4 x 20 minutes was hot but it wasn't just the weather. With the aid of a steady breeze the Atlanta Kookaburras took control of the game from the first hit out by new recruit Eva Mc Nelis and never looked back. With onballers Jennifer Sarbacker and Judith Stein bringing the ball forward on a continual basis the Florida backline was under siege in a matter of minutes. Pernille Christensen providing the taller option up forward with Dewi Mitchell the Lady Kookas were actually alight. In a stunning first quarter the Kookaburras kicked 8 goals 10 behinds. Several of those misses we think were just caused by the excitement of the game! New to the team Stephanie Powell slipped onto the field to make an immediate impact. Denise LaFaver replaced Dewi Mitchell she came off with a back injury and with another new gamer in Christina Murdock shoring up defenses in an excellent manner the Florida Fusion had no answers. At the first change it was Atlanta runaway leaders 8.10.58 to Florida 0.0.0. The second term and with the breeze Florida was able to make some small headway but the Kookas were not for a second going to make it easy for them. The Florida team advanced several times and kicked timely goals but it wasnt long before the Kookaburras answered the challenge. Again it was Mc Nelis and Sarbacker leading the way picking up countless kicks and handballs thought the middle of the ground. Up forward Powell showed her class with several great evasive efforts resulting in goals. It was all good for the Kookas as they peppered away at the goals in the breezy conditions. What was the standout for the Atlanta team was the great teamwork with handball and great passing. Their communication and commitment for the ball was another highlight. Nikki Peoples also took the mark of the day with a great overhead grab. Against the breeze the Kookas outscored the opposition for the quarter and led by 70 points at half time. Atlanta 12.17.89 to Florida 3.1.19 The third quarter saw Coach Kraska swing the team around completely to give all players a chance at learning about the game from different positions. Versatility seems a big ask so early in this teams development but after seeing backline players Nikki Peoples and Murdock come forward it wasn't such a big step after all it seems. Peoples helped herself to four goals for the quarter many of those well fed by the onballers and with another rookie Karina Clarke helping Murdock across half forward. Three quarter time Atlanta 18.20.128 to Florida still on 3.1.19 The final term was equally as hot as the first three and that for sure was a taking its toll on all players on the ground. After a break on the sidelines Mc Nelis was again into the fray in the ruck and doing a great job for her first game. Up forward Steph Powell landed her fifth goal of the day ensuring she was going to figure in the best players. Judith Stein finished the game like she started giving 100% and it was easy to see that the Kookas are going to be a tough team to beat if they travel and play with this much endeavor and commitment. Final scores Atlanta 21.22.148 and a record 122 point winner over Florida 4.2.26 Although this game is still in its infancy for the womens teams the progress of the sport was quite evident on Saturday. Ok Florida didnt have a lot chances but they tried very hard and were strong opponents. The Kookaburras having their first real test playing a full game of 4 x 20s gave everything and showed some amazing progress. The Kookas team work, especially their handball and support for each other was certainly a major factor. To think they will improve further with more games, training and especially fitness goes well for their effort to defend their National Championship title in Las Vegas come October. Atlanta 8.10 12.17 18.20 21.22.148 Florida 0.0 3.1 3.1 4.2.26 Best Players: ATL: Sarbacker, Mc Nelis, Stein, Christensen, Powell, Peoples (rest of the team pretty damn good too) FL: Not supplied Goalkickers: ATL: Powell 5, Christensen 4, Peoples 4, Sarbacker 3, Mitchell 2, Kubicek, Mc Nelis, Stein 1 each FL: Not supplied  
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