As the waves crashed into the shore behind Trevor Barker Beach Oval, the Casey Scorpions crashed into a tough Sandringham side at the rain softened ground; with a tight four quarter contest ending with a four point victory to the persistent team from Casey as Bridget Hanson reports.
Whilst the first quarter was messy at best, the Scorpions defensive efforts ensured the home team were only up by 8 points heading into the second term. Hard at the ball, a strong Casey back line featured in holding back many of Sandringham’s attempts to score with the slippery and unpredictable ball.
As the second term approached, it was reasonable to fear how the game would eventuate. Riddled with intermittent rain, muddy conditions and in cohesive ball movement – the first sign of hope came just prior to the end of the first quarter - with Jordan Gysberts, in his return from a broken jaw - bagging Casey’s first goal of the game.
By the beginning of the second quarter, the big men of the side united as a force to be reckoned with and won the majority of hit outs (40) on the day. Even after playing only two games in the last five weeks, Jake Spencer has found increasing confidence and agility in the ruck, and is well on his way to returning to full strength following a knee reconstruction in 2011.
It was Spencer, with second ruck/tall forward Stefan Martin and Melbourne FC team mate, Ricky Petterd who were crucial in the opening minutes of the quarter – with both Martin and Petterd claiming a quick goal each to give Casey the lead for the first time in the game.
The following 25 minutes of play were rich in pressure by both the home and away teams, and Casey was dominant in their progression on the scoreboard. Yet, Sandringham had plenty to say in return and kicked three unanswered goals to re claim their previous stature.
Undeterred by inconsistent weather conditions and a powerful stretch of play by their opposition - Casey found a hot surge amid the cold and gloomy skies, with Rian McGough and Petterd each kicking majors.
Leigh Williams, who is yet another Casey player returning after a disruption to his season, had some powerful contributions and worked hard in the game that proved tough for the forwards. His goal late in the term was crucial – and gave Casey the lead as the siren blew for half time.
The second half began with an extraordinary sense of intensity. In the first minute of the third - Martin, boasting extreme athleticism and agility, kicked a low goal to further increase the Scorpions lead.
Dominant for most of this quarter, and even as they pushed the lead out to 17 points, the Casey boys knew there was plenty of time left in this game. They knew it was going to be close.
The fourth quarter resonated closely with the first three, ‘see-sawing’ as both the Scorpions and the Zebra’s fought to take control as the clock counted down. Tim Smith then made a smart, intuitive kick and managed a goal to put Casey in a better position as time grew short - yet they were still down.
Frantically, and with only 30 seconds left on the clock, they had a chance for the lead. Tom Couch, who was heavily tagged on the day, grabbed an incredible goal to put the Scorps in front.
After the home side couldn’t convert a free awarded after the siren, Casey had won – 11.15.81 to 10.17.77.
Leading on field was co- captain Evan Ponnoza, who racked up a hard fought 30 disposals; accompanied by Martin with 21. Gybsberts gathered 23, and was exceptional in the clearances; showing a refined skill set and a distinct sense of determination in his first competitive game back to VFL level.
With the sound of the final siren, the skies began to clear as though the weather was accommodating the celebrations that would follow. The game was filled with a sense of resilience and strong will; and the list comprising of numerous players returning from injury, successfully maintained the high calibre of football Casey have shown through 2012. It was the fifth time this season the Scorpions have won by a goal or less, in another perfect orchestration of team unity and determination.
The Scorpions next come up against Werribee at Avalon Airport Oval, fuelled by the confidence of another tight win over a competitive side. They then face Port Melbourne at home on the 8th of July, who they sit second to on the ladder. Whilst even with 36 points apiece, Casey is far behind in percentage at113.37 % to 166.18%. A big win in the next few weeks would certainly come in handy for the Casey Scorpions.
Last Modified on 28/06/2012 15:18