By Travis Parnaby
The Gold Coast staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Northern by 28 points at home. The Knights jumped to a 32-point lead following an explosive seven goal first quarter. But the home side pegged the lead back as the Knights could only manage a further three goals. Better players for Northern included Jarryd Cachia (29 disposals) and Josh Caddy (three goals).
Oakleigh’s defence reigned supreme in its 59-point win over Bendigo. Such was Oakleigh’s pressure the Pioneers could only manage 18 points for the game. Damaging Charger midfielder Jayden Hoegel kicked four goals from 30 possessions and other top liners included Justin Van Unen (three goals) and ruckman Patrick McMahon (20 possessions and 23 hit outs). Bendigo’s best was Matthew Ladson with 20 possessions.
After falling one point short last week, Geelong got-up in a three-point thriller against Calder. The Cannons would rue inaccurate kicking, compiling 2.5 to the Falcons three goals straight in the frantic final term. Falcon Ben Cunnington starred with a game-high 37 touches and half-forward Josh Grabowski added four goals. Strong marking key forward Jake Carlisle gave the Cannons a presence inside the 50m arc (20 possessions, nine marks and one goal).
Dandenong rebounded from last week’s loss to defeat Sandringham by 27 points and maintain second position on the ladder. The Stingrays blew the game open with a scintillating seven goal to nil opening. Sandringham outscored the visitors after the first change but the damage was done. Stingray Dylan Roberton was highly effective (24 touches) while Dragon Jonno Nash was outstanding with 40 possessions.
Gippsland overcame a plucky Western by 12 points at Morwell. Gippsland’s win pushed it inside the top four and was engineered by ball magnet Koby Stevens (23 touches) and the defensive nous of half-back Nicholas Sing. Jet Johnny Rayner shone with 32 touches and nine clearances.
Eastern Ranges imposed itself on the TAC Cup with an impressive 105-point defeat of Murray. The TAC Cup’s leading goal kicker Luke McDonald kicked seven goals to take his tally to 47 goals. Murray back pocket Sam Caruso and full back Liam Johnson were valiant under a torrent of forward entries.
In round 15 of the TAC Cup, Gold Coast hosts Western, Northern takes on Gippsland Power at Bill Lawry Oval, Oakleigh is home to top team Geelong and Dandenong meets North Ballarat at home. On Sunday, Calder plays Bendigo at Coburg and Sandringham tackles Eastern at Box Hill City Oval. Murray has a week’s rest.
Last Modified on 07/04/2010 15:21