It was a big task confronting our lads as we took on the ladder leading Mordialloc at Ben Kavanagh.
With experience in the form of Leighton and Lance watching on, we looked to Jamie Fox on debut to fill a role. We defended against a strong breeze in the first term and were well pleased to hold the hosts to two goals. Clint Brooks used all his experience to position himself beautifully behind the ball, thwarting a succession of Mordialloc entries.
Our turn with the wind did not prove profitable. We had our chances but didn’t convert and were disappointed to lose the quarter. Our effort and discipline to this point had been first class. Although we didn’t have reward for effort we were still well in the game.
Once again we were brave defending. Two long bombs from the hosts late in the quarter undid a lot of good work. Importantly, we were able to score a valuable goal into the wind and go to the last break 28 points down.
With only one goal in three quarters we were long odds with bookies. We looked to Gav to pinch a goal early and not for the first time he delivered. We were starting to get our hands on the ball first and put the Mordialloc backline under pressure. Ben Laier scrapped a goal of the deck and the margin was down to 16 points. Brooksy was alive at both ends, providing a great target. Danny Wilson marked and converted before Mordialloc had the ball in their forward line for what seemed an eternity. The backline held firm and eventually cleared. Brooksy pulled down a great contested mark and passed off to Brad Dight who had the chance to put us in front for the first time in the match, deep into time on. He kicked truly and with the siren sounding almost immediately after the restart, we had pinched the points.
It was a win which displayed courage, discipline, sustained effort and self belief. The coach had a plan and the lads stuck to it to a man.
Clint Brooks was super at both ends and Danny Wilson continually gave the on ballers first look at the ball. Justin Doust led a miserly backline along with Luke Woolrich. Tyson Bramble was terrific and Damian Stoter-Rainer showed that he is getting over his pre season ailments.
Great win lads.
The Reserves were not such a good story, managing only two majors for the day they were soundly beaten. Paul Hill, Cam McLeod and Luke Wenke were all among the best.
Below- winners are grinners.
Last Modified on 18/05/2014 09:45