In a round where all the cards fell into place for the Blockbuster Lady Devils, as top team Monbulk Rangers dropped its first game for the year, Ballarat drew within four points of top spot in FFV women’s state league one.

The Lady Devils now sit in third position, two points behind Sunday’s opposition in Boroondara in second spot and four points behind leader Monbulk.

Ballarat came out firing from the start of the match at Trekardo Park.

The Devils went ahead in the opening minutes of the game, when a speculative attempt from distance by Millie Martin bounced over the Eagles’ goalkeeper’s head. 

While there was an element of luck in the manner in which goal was scored, Ballarat quickly demonstrated its ascendancy through its domination of possession.

The Devils doubled their lead mid-way through the half, when Courtney Farrell attacked a corner from Olivia Ortiz and Lulu Al-Huneidi slotted home the resultant loose ball.

Boroondara started the second half with renewed gusto, and began to string together some attacks on the Devils goals. 

However, they were unable to get past Jasmina Zdelar, who was stellar in goals, and Holly Williamson who was composed in the centre of defence.

The Eagles resorted to a string of long balls in desperation, hoping for a breakthrough.

The Devils took advantage of the Eagles desperation and Al-Huneidi made them pay when she netted her 14th goal this year.

This was the most coherent team performance from the Devils this season, with Ballarat maintaining their structure and discipline throughout the game. 

Emma Moran’s physical presence up front brought others into the game by holding up the ball when required. 

Miff Jennings and Chelsea Bickerton complemented each other well in the centre of midfield, playing to their differing strengths. 

Meanwhile the defence, led by Williamson, was solid under pressure and was able to set up many successful attacks.

The Devils will look to build on their comprehensive performance next week against sixth placed Western Eagles.