By NICK GALEA - Under-19's
THE Altona Vikings have secured a qualifying final berth after surviving a last quarter scare from a valiant Hoppers Crossing, winning by 11-points.
Altona started brightly with the opening two goals of the game, but inaccuracy prevented them from a greater lead as the Warriors were able to slow down the play and score on the rebound.
Altona's Jack Reynolds kicked his first to extend the margin to 16-points early in the second quarter before the heavens opened. From that point onwards Hoppers Crossing were able to assert themselves on the contest and looked more confident with ball in hand. At half-time Altona led by five points.
The Vikings looked to have broken the game open with four goals to one in the third quarter as they played some outstanding football, moving the ball with pace and skill along the wing resulting in a game high 24-point lead going into three quarter time.
With both sides knowing what was up for stake it promised a thrilling last quarter.
Chase Guy sparked the Warriors to get within five points and a qualifying final spot loomed as a reality as they controlled most of the final term, but the Vikings experience shone through and regained their composure when Tyson Roache kicked his second to provide a two goal buffer and utimately secure the double chance.
Jack Xuereb and Rhys Boys were the best for Hoppers Crossing and Lachlan Grant slotted two goals. For the Vikings, Matthew Wright's dash was important, Sam Paton competed strongly and Joshua Hindle backed up last week’s game with another quality performance.
The final round of the season saw Spotswood finish off with a 49-point win over Caroline Springs, 13.11. (89) to 6.4. (40).
St Albans defeated the Wyndham Suns 7.6. (48) to 6.1. (37) and Werribee Disticts outclassed Albion 18.15. (123) to 5.9. (39).
The Yarraville Seddon Eagles ended Albanvale's extremely tough season 43.25. (283) to 0.3. (3) and Wyndhamvale had the bye.
The Werribee Districts will rest up during the opening week of the finals after finishing first on the ladder, Yarraville will verse Altona on Saturday in the Qualifying Final with the victor to face a disciplined Werribee Districts the following week.
The loser will set themselves up for a semi-final against one of Hoppers Crossing and Albion who will clash on Sunday in an Elimination Final, both of which are aiming to extend their seasons for at least another week.
Last Modified on 21/08/2017 13:33