NORTH Wangaratta remain unbeaten at the top of the Ovens and King ladder after holding off a spirited third quarter performance from Benalla on Saturday to win by 48 points.
The Panthers kicked a stunning six goals straight in the third quarter to pull within 22 points at the final change and head into the last quarter with all the momentum.
But for the second time in the match, the Hawks kept the Panthers goalless for the last term and kicked four themselves to secure a 14.14 (98) to 8.2 (50) win.
New Hawks recruit and star forward Richard Findlay, who kicked four majors, said things weren't looking promising at the final change but was happy with how his side responded.
"After that third quarter things weren't looking to flash," Findlay said.
"They were getting quick clearances and bombing up to their big forwards.
"But we did well in the last quarter."
While the Hawks had enjoyed a stunning start to the season, many viewed Saturday's contest against the Panthers as the side's first real test.
And so it panned out in the first quarter with both sides working overtime to gain the edge on the scoreboard.
Things began to open up in the second term and Findlay, Daniel Vihm (three goals) and Matthew Smith (three goals) began to find their range up forward.
Hawks coach David Steer controlled the defence, so much so that the Panthers went scoreless for the entire quarter as the home side increased their lead to 32 points at the main change.
But after some words of encouragement from coach Ben Wapling, Benalla hit back hard in the third quarter and began to get on top of the Hawks.
While North Wangaratta kicked four goals themselves, Michael Wright, Daryl Webb and Samuel Creamer kept the Panthers pressing forward.
All looked to be set up for a thrilling final term, however, the Hawks had other ideas and again completely shut down the Panthers' forward line.
Four goals at the other end compelted the solid victory as the Hawks now enjoy a week off before facing King Valley at Whitfield.
In other matches -
- Brad Bell kicked nine majors as Greta overcame Bonnie Doon by 21 points.
- Bright was forced to come from behind to defeat Swanpool by eight points.
- Milawa proved too good for Goorambat, winning by 107 points.
- Tatong, as expected, accounted for Glenrowan by 62 points.
By - JEREMY WILSON.
Last Modified on 21/05/2012 10:43
