The Tradelink Western Magpies started their final match of 2010 exactly as they wanted to taking advantage of a lackluster start form Mt Gravatt to take a 3.3 to 2.2 lead into quarter time at Chelmer on Saturday. It was vital that they come out in the second quarter and keep the pressure on the Vultures and lay the foundation for a huge upset. The Vultures unfortunately had other ideas as the awoke from their first quarter slumber and slammed on 8.4 to 1.1 to break the Magpies resolve and set up an eventual 20.16.136 to 5.11.41 victory.
It will be a two horse race for the Bill Pierce Medal at the clubs vote count on Sunday October 3 but what a race it will be with Ed McDonnell and James Rozynski both certain to poll votes in the last round. Ed McDonnell was once again tireless in his work rate at CHF but once gain struggled to improve on his defenders goal efficiency which has haunted him since taking over the forward role. James Rozynski despite carrying a knee injury was once again at his bullocking best through the midfield.
Both players have had outstanding seasons and will have polled votes in almost every game they have played. McDonnell has played all 18 games while Rozynski missed 1 game in Round 7 due to a hamstring. It could very well come down to the R18 votes to split the two and decide the Medal.
Jackson Allen in just his 4th match of the season and 3rd match in the seniors showed exactly what the Magpies have missed all season as he collected plenty of possessions and used the ball efficiently. Greg Lavey was also strong for the Magpies through the middle in a debut QAFL season that has seen him play 17 matches and make a valuable contribution to the club. Callum Carseldine was also prominent in his tagging role against his old club and his attack on ball and opponent was a feature for a young player that has flourished under Jarrod Thorpe.
Luke Scott although spending most of the day in defense managed to kick a goal which secured him as the Magpies leading goal kicker for the season with 21 while Jye Spencer in kicking two goals drew level with Val Pope on 18. Jack Parkes worked hard all day long and was rewarded with his second BG award in a row.
As someone who is privy to the details that made it so difficult for the club to recruit the top end players we needed to in order to provide the support you required, I am so proud of you all!!! To deal with the circumstances that have resulted in 36 straight losses and still turn out every single week and bust your guts for the club has been outstanding. I know you will all join me in supporting the U/18’s and Reserves through their finals campaigns.
The Tradelink Western Magpies Reserves were able to implement their second good start in as many weeks in what was a high quality contest all day against Mt Gravatt. The Magpies fell 1 point short in a storming finish that saw the final siren sound with the Magpies in possession deep in their forward line. Coach Peter McClennan would have been happier with his teams more consistent effort over 4 quarters and a good preparation for an Elimination Final despite the 13.11.89 to 13.12.90 loss.
The game started with a first quarter shoot out that saw the Western Magpies get the better of the free flowing contest to kick 6.2 to 5.2 and take a 1 goal lead into the first break. The second quarter was just as even but the Vultures were more efficient in front of the big sticks and kicked 4.2 to 2.3 to hold a 5 point lead at the long break. An even third quarter saw the Vultures extend their lead to 9 points at ¾ time but the Magpies missed opportunities in front of goal would haunt them as they kicked 1.4 to 2.2.
In a frenzied final quarter the Vultures appeared to finish the stronger but they were guilty of wasting opportunities kicking 2.6 which left the door open for the Magpies who came charging home kicking 4.2 to fall 1 point short at the final siren.
Will Fozard was the Magpies best floating across the backline in a welcome return to form on the eve of a finals campaign and he was well supported by Tim Mcevoy who was courageous all day and set up many forward thrusts. Chris McClennan did a power of work through the midfield as did Richard Wenham who returned from a long lay off with a hamstring injury. Sean McEvoy was at his miserly best on the last line of defense while Matt Thompson kicked a bag of 5 up forward well supported by Kale Reed who kicked 3. Reid Dobson was battling the flu and missed the best players list for the first time in 2010 but managed to kick the goal of the day.
The Reserves will take on Labrador in an Elimination Final on Saturday August 28 at Coorparoo at 11am.
The Westside Asphalt U/18’s will take on Redland after they defeated Noosa in yesterdays Preliminary Final on Sunday August 29 at Graham Rd Aspley at 2pm in the Sports Ready U/18 Division 1 Grand Final.
Good luck to both teams!!
Last Modified on 23/08/2010 12:47