By CONNOR PAIN - Division 1 Reserves
IN arguably one of the games of the season, Hoppers Crossing were able to kick a late goal to seal top spot in the Division 1 Reserves competition, with a nine-point win over second-placed Werribee Districts.
The matchup was tight all day, as neither side were able to kick away. The biggest lead at any break was the final margin.
The midfield was where much of the game was played, as both sides counteracted the other with pressure, tackling and intercept marks.
As such, neither team kicked more than two goals in a row over the course of the four quarters.
Despite the close contest, Hoppers used tight defence and a goal with just over seven minutes remaining to stave off its opponent and win 11.10. (76) to 10.7. (67).
Hoppers Crossing will now finish the season in first place on 60 points as it has the final bye of 2016, while Werribee will head to Spotswood to face the Woodsmen.
Altona locked up third place with a come from behind win over Sunshine, 9.9. (63) to 8.13. (61).
The Kangaroos were the stronger team for the first three quarters, as they led at each break.
Its 10-point lead going into the final term appeared to be enough, as the Roos had countered each Vikings goal, but the home side was unable to hold its advantage as Altona dominated, booting three goals and four behinds in the quarter to win its 12th game of the season.
Altona’s final game of the season is at home against Albion, Sunshine travelling to Wyndhamvale.
Eleven goals in the second half helped Spotswood romp to an 18.15. (123) to 5.5. (35) victory over Albion, , the away side the better team all day.
Luke Ryan led the way for the Woodsmen with four majors.
The game was still competitive at half-time, but Spotswood’s onslaught in the second half pushed the final margin to 88-points.
Deer Park ran riot over Wyndhamvale on the way to its biggest win of the season, a 27.23. (185) to 1.0. (6) thumping.
The Falcons were, to say the least, uncompetitive all day as the Lions just piled on the misery, not letting up over any of the four quarters.
Wyndhamvale’s only score came in the third quarter, a quarter where Deer Park kicked eight goals and eight behinds.
The Lions will finish no lower than fifth on the ladder and is set to battle St Albans on Saturday.
Last Modified on 09/08/2016 10:03