By CONNOR PAIN - Division 1 Reserves
IN arguably the upset of the season so far, Altona knocked off ladder-leader Hoppers Crossing in a tight and low scoring affair.
The Vikings started slowly, kicking just one goal and six behinds in the first-half.
Despite this, the Warriors were unable to capitalise as Altona’s mixture of a man-on-man defence and zone defence restricted Hoppers Crossing’s usual free flowing and attacking football style.
The visitors added two goals in the third term, but still trailed going into the final term, as the home side maintained its slim lead.
The Vikings took over in the last quarter, booting two goals after the re-start, adding a third soon after.
Altona’s fourth goal sealed the game and prevented a would-be comeback by the home side.
The 7.8. (50) to 6.6. (42) final score line reflected the scrappy nature of the game, and possibly shows what other sides will be required to do in order to defeat the talented Hoppers Crossing side.
Altona will next face Spotswood at home, while Hoppers Crossing will look to maintain its spot on top of the ladder with a win against Wyndhamvale.
Meanwhile, Deer Park now sit third on the ladder after its 13.9. (87) to 8.6. (54) victory over Spotswood.
The game appeared headed for another boil over, as the Woodsmen led by three goals at the first break.
However, 10 goals in the second-half ended the upset bid by Spotswood, with the Lions showing why it could be a contender come finals time.
The 33-point displayed Deer Park ability to fight back, particularly from an early deficit.
Deer Park will look to jump Werribee Districts on the ladder if it is able to win in its battle in Round 5.
A four goal to nil opening term helped the Districts overcome a pesky Albion, downing the Cats by 24-points.
The home side had seven individual goal kickers to Albion’s one, a key as to why Albion weren’t able to mount a serious chance.
Albion will look to regroup this week with the bye.
St. Albans sit just a game outside of the top four after its comprehensive 51-point triumph over Wyndhamvale.
Besnik Kutleshi was the key man up forward for the Saints, booting three majors, with eight other players also adding majors.
The loss leaves Wyndhamvale winless after four rounds, and without a drastic change of fortunes possibly headed to the wooden spoon.
St. Albans will next face close neighbours Sunshine in the final match of Round 5.
Last Modified on 02/05/2016 13:16