Illawarra Steelers outside back Zali Yeo has made the most of her appearances in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership, including picking up a double against the Cronulla Sharks in Round 4.
However, with limited game time for the Scarlet and Whites, Yeo has also turned out for her local club, the Corrimal Cougars, in the Southern Corridor Open Women’s competition.
The reward for her effort is a grand final that awaits this Saturday at Ziems Park, to be played before the Steelers Round 10 game against the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
After going the competition undefeated following their 42 – 0 win over Riverwood at the weekend, Yeo insists that the job is not finished, hoping to extend this streak one further in the decider against Penshurst RSL on Saturday.
“I’m really excited. It should be a good little matchup.
“They’re a pretty good team, so hopefully we come away with the win,” Yeo said.
Cougars Confident
Despite the Cougars’ impressive record, their Southern Corridor competition has been hindered by washout rounds, several byes, and forfeits.
Zali says they are confident ahead of the ‘big dance’ despite the lack of game time.
“We wish we had a few more games under our belt, but that’s how it rolls sometimes when playing footy.”
Although finding herself on the wing when lining up for the Steelers, Yeo has made the No.6 at Corrimal her own, lacing up alongside Ashley Swan-Hayles, who she says has been steering the ship for the Cougars this season.
“I actually enjoy it a lot more in the halves. I have a really good halfback [Hayles]; she runs the show, and I fold off her, so it works really well.
“Getting my hands on the ball a bit more and getting involved is also nice.
Playing Eyes Up
One thing Yeo enjoys about playing in the halves is the freedom of the position and the ability to express herself more as a footballer.
“It’s obviously a lot different, but I feel like I get more of a chance to do what I know I can do.
“Being more expressive with my skills and don’t feel nervous to do that.
“More just playing eyes up footy.”
Playing at Corrimal yet training with the Illawarra Steelers, Yeo says that going back to her local club to play footy allows her to pass on knowledge to not only her teammates but also her coaches.
“I’m able to give some tips to our backs, like getting wider off the ruck.
“I feel like just having another voice in there always helps; with our coaching staff not always available, it’s never a bad thing to have someone else there.”
Saturday, 7 September, Ziems Park
- HNWP – Illawarra Steelers v South Sydney Rabbitohs | 3pm
- Open Women’s Grand Final – Corrimal Cougars vs Penshurst RSL | 1:15 pm
- Under 18s Girls (Plate) Grand Final – Corrimal Cougars vs Como Jannali | 11:45 am
Words: Joshua Houldin