THE Warwick Redbacks ignited their AFL Darling Downs campaign with an 11.8 (74) to 7.8 (50) win over University at USQ on Saturday. It was a must-win clash for both clubs as they were quickly losing touch with the top four with just two wins each.
But last year's grand finalists Warwick rose to the occasion to control the match from the opening bounce. Uni's handling and ball movement was woeful in the first half and the Redbacks took full advantage to establish an 11-point lead at the main break.
A comeback was on the cards when the Cougars booted the first goal of the third term. But Uni's lack of pace was exposed as three-time Holman Medallist Brendan Iles produced one of his best games of the season. The midfielder controlled the ball from every stoppage and the Redbacks jumped out to a 31-point lead.
Uni had all the field position in the final quarter but couldn't convert it into points and Warwick held on for a much-needed 24-point victory.
Meanwhile, South Toowoomba has retained top spot on the ladder after pummelling Dalby 21.28 (154) to 6.3 (39). Souths' accuracy in front of goal let them down early and it was the Swans who were ahead at the first break. But the under-strength Dalby side couldn't maintain its intensity and the Bombers powered home.
Daniel McPhee bagged seven majors to help Souths record their fifth-straight win.
Toowoomba Tigers also kept their perfect record intact with a 29.30 (204) to 1.1 (7) victory over Goondiwindi. The Tigers were kicking goals from all over the park with 13 players adding their names to the scoresheet. The win sets up an exciting top-of-the-table showdown between the defending premiers and Souths next weekend.
Finally, Coolaroo continued its rise up the ladder with a crushing 35.16 (226) to 3.3 (21) victory over Lockyer Valley. Miels Grice booted an impressive 10 goals to lead the Roos into the top three after a slow start to the season.
Photo by: Kevin Farmer (Toowoomba Chronicle 7/5) - Alex Cutmore of the Redbacks contests the ruck against University player Simon Choice
Last Modified on 12/05/2012 08:23
