Power AFL women sink Panthers in Senior Women’s Plate

MIDFIELD dynamo Jenny Rojas is fast-developing into an on-field talisman for Port Stephens Power in the AFL Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Senior Women’s Plate competition.

The 17-year-old warrior might be one of the youngest competitors in the 2026 series but in recent fixtures has shown a maturity that belies her years.

Rojas played a starring role in the Power’s 30-23 victory over Terrigal-Avoca Panthers last Saturday at Hylton Moore Oval before damaging an ankle in the forward line.

She joined midfield-forward Mel McCartney (neck injury) on the Power casualty list post-match, with both players making major contributions in a low-scoring tussle.

It was the Port Stephens club’s sixth win from 10 matches in the Senior Women’s Plate this season and keeps the team entrenched in fifth spot on 24 points.

Best-on-ground for the courageous Power side were talented midfield/winger Grace Astley, tireless ruck Bianca Cattelini and midfield ace Maz Masiero.

Experienced Port Stephens skipper Josie Johnson told News Of The Area that the victory over the Panthers was the “perfect bounce-back” after the 41-27 loss to Cardiff Hawks the previous week.

“We were down on troops but managed to keep the Panthers at bay after opening up a handy lead,” Johnson said.

Another in-form player for Port Stephens this season is hard-working midfielder Molly Goudie.

Other Power players to shine include Jayde Everill, Jemma Astley, Renee Selby and Alysha Fewster.

The Port Stephens Power club will hold its sixth annual Joey’s Round this Saturday at Medowie’s Ferodale Oval in memory of baby Joseph Don Potter.

Power will have a re-match with Terrigal-Avoca in the Senior Women’s Plate clash that kicks off at 12 noon, followed by the Senior Men’s Plate fixture between Port Stephens and Singleton Roosters from 2pm.

By Chris KARAS