Fremantle came home victorious following Sunday afternoon’s RAC Derby with a seven-point win against West Coast, with Irish midfielder Orlagh Lally taking out the Best on Ground Medal with seven out of a possible nine votes.

The 24-year-old Irish winger was instrumental across the contest, with 24 disposals, eight intercept possessions, 456 metres gained and a goal, earning high praise from both her teammates and coaches.

Lally’s housemate, close friend and teammate in utility Gabby O’Sullivan, said it was a special moment to see her recognised for all the hard work she’s put in, while being away from her family in Ireland.

“She played phenomenally, and I know her mum was watching over in Ireland,” O’Sullivan said.

“She just fights hard every single week, and you know what you’re going to get when Lally comes out onto the field, so for her to be awarded best on ground, I’m so proud of her.”

O’Sullivan said she and her other housemate and teammate, Gabby Biedenweg-Webster, rode a wave of emotions when Lally accepted the award post-match.

“She’s like a sister,” O’Sullivan said.

“I was standing next to GBW (Biedenweg-Webster) when her name got called out and we almost shed a tear because, as I said, she just works so hard.

“To leave her family and support network over there in Ireland, to come over here to follow a dream, she’s playing very well and I’m so glad that all her hard work is paying off.”

Senior Coach Lisa Webb said the accolade was a reflection of the growth and consistency Lally has displayed since making the move over to Perth and joining Fremantle.

“(I was) very impressed, always am. Lally’s had that kind of game in her for a long time. She’s worked so incredibly hard,” Webb said.

“She’s always in my office and I know she’s got great support with her Irish teammates, but also Gabby O’Sullivan, so I’m really proud of the growth she’s shown.

“I met her when she was younger, when she came over here, and the growth that she’s shown over the three or four years that she’s been here is incredible.

“She’s great on both sides of the body, and she got really physical and as a winger that’s obviously a real attribute to her game.”

TOTAL VOTES:
Orlagh Lally – 7 votes
Ella Roberts – 5 votes
Aisling McCarthy – 5 votes
Gabby Newton – 1 vote