An inspired performance last week at Preston City Oval from the sizzling Rooster’s reserves outfit had all of Lower Plenty scratching their heads. The 10 goal 3rd quarter is the highest scoring individual quarter in any division 1 Seniors or reserves match this September. The word filtering around the ground before the match was what did the Rooster’s have in store today after such a barnstorming performance last week. One would be forgiven for assuming a less than spectacular performance after such a devastating result the week prior.
To be fair, the Roosters were very serviceable and clinical about their business against Eltham. The loss of Batey, Lawless and McInerney looked significant but the team would be bolstered by the return of dynamo midfielder Chris Belbasis for the occasion. Without too much fanfare the Roosters went into the game very confident of getting the desired result and the first half showed that mentality. Brick by brick the Roosters dismantled the Panthers. The strength of the Roosters looked to be the midfield but the highlight of the team’s performance was the even spread across the field. The backline was miserly in keeping the Eltham forwards to just 5 goals to 3qtr time and 8 for the game. Nick McKernan and Tom O’Neill were significant in the back half. Both vital in one on one contests to return the ball back to the Rooster’s midfielders. Caspersz was a rock back there and some blistering 80m plays from Garret McDonagh helped the defence stay on top all afternoon.
The midfield for the Rooster’s is right up there in Division 1 Reserves footy. Sanderson led the way with his prolific ball winning ability and the uncanny knack of finding space. His vision and reading of the play allowed him to set up many forays forward by placing his teammates into space. He was ably supported by Chris Belbasis and Mich Tobin with their competitive instincts wreaking havoc in the clinches. The tackle count for Mitch Tobin had eclipsed double figures by the start of the last quarter. On the same level of animal like intensity, cult figure, Jonathan Hiho was superb all day. He was able to walk away from a scuffle without receiving a yellow card, not only that his ball winning ability was outdone by his delivery by foot, amassing 3 goals along the way. A clever pundit said it might have been his best day delivering the footy by foot of his already illustrious career at the Roosters. Topping it all off was the class from Niall McDonagh. Self proclaimed, the “difference” last week after three 3rd qtr goals in a blistering and unmatched 10min of footy, it was another impressive performance by the Irish marvel. In career best form his ability to bring other players (his brother) into the game as well as hitting the scoreboard has been crucial lately.
Without the usual prominence of Kane Heaney and Naci Eschel, they were still able to combine for 4 majors in a low scoring affair. Their forward 50 prowess will be integral next week if a W is to be achieved. A special mention must go to Ben Peters for his entertaining play. He was the most dangerous player on the field. His dual threat on the ground and in the air makes his a tantalising prospect for the preliminary final. Whilst his party tricks and sparkling play may not have clicked this week, if it plays out differently next week he could kick 7 and have 30 possessions. Oli Dufficy slotted 2 important majors while Brian White and James Rizzolio continued their fine form this finals series.
A Preliminary final this Sunday awaits the Reserves in a winnable match. They have collected 10 straight wins and are breathing fire. Get done to support the boys at 11.50am at Preston City Oval for an alluring clash.
Last Modified on 11/09/2012 12:17