In what was a “bizarre day” for the club, Curtain’s serious injury was coupled with the collapse of one of its development squad players following the reserves clash. The Strikers didn’t wish to name the player but assured she was in good health.

Ballarat returned a 1-1 draw against the seventh-placed Bundoora United in what coach Laura Brady felt was a reasonable result given the circumstances.

Bundoora scored at the 21-minute mark which was closely followed by the loss of Curtain. But the side managed to regroup after half-time and was led by the side’s younger brigade of players – which was the most pleasing aspect of the game.

Natalie Barbara, who was the Strikers best performer for the day, levelled the scores in the 72^nd minute.

“If you asked me on Friday what I would’ve thought of a 1-1 result - I wouldn’t be that happy,” Brady said.

“But the second half was actually a really good outcome for us. There were some good signs from what was an okay result.”

The Strikers end the year in fifth position with an even spread of wins and losses.

Brady said she has seen some significant improvement in its youth which provides promise to the upcoming season. 

The progression of a change in game style with a focus on better use of the ball and becoming more damaging with possession was also another positive to come out of the season.

“It’s been a good season for player development. A number of the younger players have made significant progress this year. We’ve adopted a new style of play, adopted a new formation and all those things have clicked for us a little bit more as the seasons worn on.”

Ballarat Eureka Strikers will now enjoy two weeks off before a friendly match against W-League side Melbourne City. The hit-out is a great opportunity for the club to mix it with some national players and Brady said it was a fantastic way to end the season.