SOUTH MORANG took a firm grip on third spot on the ladder in Round 13 of Division 3 football, while Heidelberg West kept its finals hopes alive with an upset win on the road. Top versus bottom proved to be no contest, with Thomastown winning easily.
South Morang proved too good for Watsonia in the NFL Match of the Day at A.K. Lines Reserve, with the visitors running out winners by 37 points.
The Lions had more avenues to goal, with four multiple goal kickers – led by Ashley Hobbs with five. Daniel Delromano gave his team plenty of drive from the wing while John Klaromenos offered a hard body in defence.
Hayden Mitchell continued his recent excellent form by being Watsonia’s best player on the day, while John Perichon and Jarryd Allan also worked tirelessly for four quarters in heavy conditions.
Heidelberg West surprised with a narrow eight-point win over St Mary’s at Whatmough Park. The Hawks have beaten the Burra twice at this venue in 2014, after also claiming a 17-point win at the ground in Round 3.
In a see-sawing game, St Mary’s found itself 12 points down at the last change, but kicking to the scoring end. However, the Hawk defence held firm – and the two goals scored against the breeze was enough to give them the four points.
Hawks coach Derek Shaw played defender Brad Moore on the wing, while best on ground James McLean-Brunton played in the middle – but also pushed forward. Aidan Young played a similar role – and both of the team’s leaders booted four goals as the Hawks moved into fifth place on the ladder.
The Burra team sported plenty of under-19 players and fell just short on the day. Jarrod Millett, with four goals, was the best for his team. John Desmond, first up from an injury lay-off, also excelled with four goals.
“It was disappointing that the game was up for grabs at three quarter time but Heidelberg West outworked us in the final term for the second time this year,” St Mary’s coach Con Borg’s said.
Shaw was pleased with the effort of his charges.
“The side was well led by co captains McLean-Brunton and Dan Bailey, as well as vice-captain Aidan Young in a gritty, determined win,” he said.
At Main Street Reserve, Thomastown recorded a big win over Parkside for the third time this season – as was expected. With seven multiple goal scorers, led by Michael Khoury with six and five from Jacob Osei-Duro, the Bears ran out 157-point winners over the winless Devils.
Nonetheless, Parkside coach George Lattouf couldn’t fault the endeavour of his undermanned team.
“They played their best and each of them played their role. I am happy with that,” he said. “Many of them are reserves players.”
Darren Gresham transferred out to Craigieburn recently with the club’s blessing. The Devils have now used 50 players this season, more than any other team. On a bright note, 16 year old Isaac Romano – a junior player for Parkside – kicked two goals and was among the best.
Thomastown go to the bye with the double chance firmly in their grasp.
Round 14 sees Parkside on the road again against another power team – this time it is Reservoir at Crispe Park. Their previous encounter at Pitcher Park ended with a 111-point victory to the Mustangs.
A win by Reservoir would keep it at least two games clear of third-placed South Morang with a game and percentage in hand. Ryan Docherty is a chance to return from injury for the game.
St Mary’s – with finals now out of reach – will be the underdog in its clash with South Morang at Whatmough Park. Their previous encounter this season resulted in a shock 101-point thumping win by the Lions at Mill Park Lakes Reserve in Round 5.
Heidelberg West hosts Watsonia at Heidelberg Park in a fifth versus fourth clash. The Hawks will need to win to keep the finals dream alive – and regain the services of Nubbi Bux from suspension. Although only one game behind the Saints, the percentage gap means that Watsonia will remain in the top four regardless of the result.
The game is likely to be much closer than their Round 7 meeting at A.K. Lines Reserve, which saw the Saints win by 95 points in arguably their best effort all season.
