The Western Magpies had their first victory over Mt Gravatt in over 20 years on Saturday in a dour struggle in windswept conditions at Ron McClennan Oval at Mt Gravatt.
The match was played in blustery conditions with a cold southerly wind buffeting the ground which reduced the match as a spectacle as the wind made kicking the ball with any accuracy difficult. Subsequently there were many packs and it was the Magpies ability to get on top early that set up the victory. A 3 goal lead at half time was the final margin as the Magpies were able to get out to a 4 goal lead midway through the third quarter only for the Vultures to snare 2 late goals to reduce the lead to 2 goals at three quarter time and going to the break with renewed confidence.
A great 50 metre goal early in the final quarter from Cam Thomas in his first match back at the club and his second overall restored the 3 goal buffer and in a tight, low scoring contest it was enough for the Magpies to hold on.
It was hard to take any form guide from the match as the conditions were a great leveller—however any win over Mt Gravatt is to be treasured and the fact it means the Magpies are third on the ladder with 3 wins puts them in great stead for some challenging matches ahead. Coach Glenn Humphrey was happy to get the 4 points in what was a danger game given the rivalry between the 2 clubs and the conditions which were a great leveller. He thought the endeavour was good and was pleased with the work at the contest but again lamented poor disposal and decision making at times which will be addressed in coming weeks.
Ben Jaenke-Cain (Sofitel Award) played another great game, his third in a row, and received great support from Drew Mitchell across half back and younger brother and vice-captain Luke, who was busy around the packs and deserved winner of the BG award.
Hayden Thick in ruck was tireless all day, while Doug Lawrence was solid in the last line of defence and speedster Aaron Yusia-Maricic had a good return on the wing after a week off.
The Magpies now have three matches in a row at home, beginning with old rivals Palm Beach-Currumbin this Saturday, followed by UQ then Broadbeach. It would be great to see some good crowd support at home especially as the Magpies are building this season.
Given that rebounding defenders Billy Moorhead and Peter Kilroy, ruckman Dom Beer as well as Redlands listed midfielder Cory Hopkins were missing, Brady Allen returned to form in the Reserves and the imminent return of last year’s co-captain and big man Gerard Moore, the Magpies are confident of improving further as the season progresses.
The only dampener on the win was an ankle sprain to half forward Matt Davis, who was impressive until injured late in the second quarter.
Last Modified on 06/05/2014 23:07