WEST PRESTON LAKESIDE vs ELTHAM – RESERVES
ROUND 18 @ J.E.MOORE PARK
The final round of the season was merely a formality for the reserves as they could not avoid a finals clash with Lower Plenty in the first week of the finals. The decision was then made to rest some key players to be fresh for the following week. Tom O’Neill and Jarrod Caspersz were two players given a chance to recuperate with bigger things in mind.
Coming off 7 wins the reserves had proven they were a daunting task for any team in the competition including all those higher placed finals fancies. The first half was not watershed football from the Roosters. Only 2 goals and some less than inspiring play meant that for the winning run to continue a change was needed.
The pendulum certainly swung the way of the Roosters after a sluggish first half. Kane Heaney was unleashed into the ruck with immediate impact. His mobility and x-factor play was a key element in the second half. The clearances debacle from the first half was completely eroded and the Roosters were getting first hands on the ball. A couple of goals in the 3rd quarter helped cut the lead to just 2 points at the final change with a win in sight.
The backline had not allowed a single goal in the penultimate quarter and was led admirably by a fan favourite J.Hiho. His new army, in the absence of Tom and Jarrod, of M.Batey and Condurso marshaled the troops in the back half. They were terrific and allowed the midfield more freedom up the ground.
The last quarter was a glimpse of the Rooster’s best football. A resounding dominance in the midfield was enough to pile on 6 goals. That was more than the whole 3 quarters prior from the Roosters. Mitch Tobin led the way with a magnificent all around game. His attack on the man and ball was supreme for a younger player. His 3rd and 4th efforts a tribute to his endeavour and attitude. His evolution this season has really signaled what may lie ahead for this young player in the seasons ahead. Don't be surprised to see him in action in the senior team more regularly, perhaps in weeks to come, if not certainly early next season.
Eschel finished with another 5 goals in a Cryil like performance inside 50. His robust frame allows him to get front position or best position and control the ball in the air and his elusive ground level play meant he is a frightening match up for most senior defenders let alone reserves players. He is certainly a player to watch come September. Lawless chipped in with a few party tricks, oh and 3 goals. He is primed for a cracking tilt at finals action.
A great way to finish the regular season for Matty and his men. 8 wins on the trot heading into an elimination final. Confidence will be high, but as we all know, anything can happen come the business end of the season.
Last Modified on 29/08/2012 14:23