A weekend of changing conditions at venues, almost full match of rain at Elliston, half match of rain at Streaky Bay and no rain at Minnipa, but mysteriously, the drier the conditions, the less goals scored?
Magpies storm in to the finals race, grabbing 4th place, but some work to do over the next two weeks as they meet the top billers! A dour match against the Tigers, just as both clubs like it, on this occasion it was the Maggies turn to outlast. The Roosters did it tough against the marauding Bulldogs in the wet, not only a hammering at the hands of the League leaders, but evergreen champion Tom Rumbelow breaking his arm, and reliable veteran Christian Weetra off with a hamstring strain. The Hawks continue their hold over the Bombers at Streaky Bay. Wirrulla just finding the fast movement of the Hawks too much.
The Bulldogs again flexed their muscle against an undermanned Roosters outfit, injuries to so many top players taking their toll. Wet and slippery conditions didn’t hamper the slick ball movement of the ‘Dogs at all. The work rate of the “Dogs is something to enjoy, as they rotate players around and share the load. Jake Bruce took no notice that the ball was wet, one grab and immaculate disposal skills again a feature, taking a well earned rest in the last quarter, Jared Sampson back to the side, roaming across half back and picking the ball at will, Jake Sampson tough and hard in the middle, Ty Mc Kenna, rucking for much of the day, not only first touch, but becomes one of the fleet footed midfielders when the ball hits the deck. Tyler Chapman, kicked five goals, which may have been more, as he unselfishly gave a few away and also unusually missed a few. Half back line so stong, Tom Freeth, Kane Sampson Lachlan Heath sending the ball out twice a quickly as it came in. So many good players, and not worried be the testing conditions at all.
The Roosters were very well served by Adam Hurrell, kicking all three goals from the midfield, including the goal of the day solo run from the centre contest. Adam has spent many games at the Port Adelaide academy over the past couple of months, and is a high class inclusion when home. Thomas Bascomb battled his heart out in the ruck and around the ground, Douglass Pearce continues his high possession form, a great pick up for Elliston, Ross Bascomb, often in defence, Kane Tiller never gives up and Brody Kenny played well.
Elliston severely affected by recent injuries are a shadow of what they might be. A month ago they were the X factor of the league, and now seem to battling an injury curse. The Bulldogs march onward!
Wudinna United found the goals once more than the Tigers, however had many more opportunities. Dour arm wrestles between these neighbours the normal these days. Magpies find themselves in the four for now, and maybe a hope of finals action, but still work to do, as their percentage will see them drop out immediately if Roosters get another win. Coach Zwar very pleased, given this one was never in the bag until the end, even though the Maggies led front the start.
Leading the Magpie best was Sam Buckham, back from the Under 17 team EP/Norwood and playing mid, forward and then the last quarter at centre half back, Dallas Waters the five star general in defence, Neil Seaman, the customary dash and high possession that is regular, noticeably often in high in the best against the Tigers also! Remi North a highly productive match around the midfield, a hard ball winner and sets up plenty, Tyson Tree in the ruck and ability to cover the ground was excellent. Ian Jericho always gets the hard jobs in defence and again performed well.
The Tigers perhaps disappointed given they will have felt that they were a big chance here,. Zane Montgomerie leading their best, and enjoying a great season, can play as a runner or as a tall and has become a reliable contributor every week. Riley King with dash from defence, small in stature but brave and a hard worker, Trent Brace, often underrated, he gathers much of the ball every week and uses it well, Scott Feltus and Shannon Horgan in the midfield, and all season high in the Tiger best. Great to see Jarrad Parker out for a run, originating from Wirrulla he has been a marquee player over the years, his experience will be extremely valuable around the Tiger Lair.
The Hawks rebounded quickly back to the Winners circle, convincingly disposing of the Bombers by 53 points at the Hawk Nest – Streaky Bay. Wirrulla finding themselves 45 points down at half time, but matching the Hawks thereafter. Ongoing problems with the Hawks leg speed, the Bombers just haven’t been able to break through against their arch rival in recent years. Still some players to come back in, but answers must be found in the very near future, Wirrulla are the most obvious challenger to the top two.
Jake McEvoy leading the Hawks best, his leg speed is outstanding and also a great mark. Tyson Montgomerie continues his rich vein of form, Mark Dolling strong in the middle, Dillon Cabot a great game, and good the see that he is getting back to his best after the knee recon. Derek Clarke four goals and a threat at key forward positions, Tom Shaw again showing he is a star of the future. The Bombers led by Lachy Norman, speedy high possession wingman/ half back, Jarden Stoetzer in good form, and his continued presence is a must for the Bombers finals hopes, Yanni Kozminski in the ruck, enjoying a stellar year, William Mayhew in the key defensive roles. Shannon Haynes kick a couple of goals and Jarden Stoetzer four.
Bombers will host an ailing Roosters next week, so must tune their game to finals action coming up, they have potential but must gain consistency.
Match results are available below, or go to the Fixtures/Results/Stats menu above.
Last Modified on 31/07/2016 21:40