The opening goal that caused an uproar in Australian Women's football

Bulldogs. Picture: Michael Willson, AFL Photos

It was the opening goal by Tayla Harris in the 2019 Australian Football League Women's game that brought controversy and media hype to the sport and left many scratching their heads.

Tayla Harris who plays for the Carlton football club and a professional boxer came under attack when she scored the first goal against the Western Bulldogs on Whitton Oval in 2019.

The photo exposed the alarming amount of online trolling and view from many Australian's who thought the goal kicking shot was inappropriate for a woman. While others likend the image to former famous Males champion Ted Whitten whom in his career had a similar image snapped of him.

Source](https://images.app.goo.gl/jVWaQBnJCPnv7YDg7)

Teddy's picture went onto become immortalised in bronze on the grounds and Teddy became a house hold name for being one of the sports greatest players.

However, Tayla's image drew criticism and online trolling for being inappropriate and "not womanlike" prompting mainstream media to withdraw the image.

The sporting community was in uproar at the move and took action against media and online trolls.

Tayla Harris immortalised in a bronze photographer - David Crosling

Rallying behind her the sporting community moved to have Tayla's award winning goal immortalised in bronze also and on show in Melbourne.

The photographer Michael Willson was also awarded the Golden Quill medal for the photo of the year.

Tell all interviews took the nation by storm as Tayla recounted the online harassment and trolling she received which shocked her and many that in current years women were still subjected to being taunted and trolled about their appearance and being professional sports players.

Women's football in Australia continues to grow as a national sport with greater investment and support. The old world continues to clash with the new causing confusion around what the actual issue is.

AFL us an Australian Rules Football game that is the back bone of the nation that all Aussies enjoy.