RESERVOIR rebounded from its fadeout against Banyule the previous week to score a well-deserved 37-point win over Watsonia at Crispe Park in Round 12 of Division 3.
The 16.13 (109) to 11.3 (69) ensured fourth-placed Reservoir stayed two wins clear of St Mary’s in fifth ahead of a bye in Round 13.
The Mustangs appeared to be controlling the game in general play in the first half but, surprisingly, found themselves behind midway through the second term.
The Saints briefly grabbed the lead courtesy of Andrew Kidd – who snapped two goals within a minute.
It was as if the lead change helped Reservoir to refocus. It then proceeded to score 5.4 to nil either side of half time.
By then, the home side had established a 28-point lead and, despite the Saints scoring the last goal of the third stanza, a comeback win seemed unlikely.
The Mustangs kicked the first three goals of the final term to put the issue beyond doubt. Jason Dal Santo’s ruck work was exceptional during this period of play as his team iced the win.
Ryan Keyes came in after a few weeks out of the senior side. It appears the dual ruck combination of Keyes and Dal Santo may be a bonus in the latter part of the season.
“We have to maintain a certain standard against all opposition – and today was evidence of that,” a happy Reservoir coach Ross Terranova said after the game.
The mood around the club was buoyant after the game. Not only did the victory sure up fourth place on the ladder – it also kept the Mustangs in the race for the double chance.
Reservoir brought a better intensity into the game than its rivals. The Mustangs won the tackling and dominated in midfield.
There was none better in this area than Judd Darby. His disposal was of a high level and stood out in a game which produced some inexplicable turnovers.
Up forward, Kent Beaumont and David McGregor combined for seven goals. With each being able to take a mark and also be very capable when the ball hit the ground, Watsonia had no answer for them.
The back six as a group held firm against the Watsonia attack in the absence of the injured Meroli brothers. Andrew Kidd was the only Saint forward looking dangerous – but was held in check by Luke Walsh in the second half.
Andrew Bennett managed three goals, but two of these came in the final term after the game had been won.
Down back, Watsonia was under siege for most of the day. John Perichon and Jarryd Allan continually saved their side in the defensive 50. The Saints often looked dangerous when Allan was able to intercept across half back and find a team mate further afield.
But the only Saint midfielder who could hold his head high on the day was Hayden Mitchell.
“We didn’t get an even contribution from the group on the day,” Watsonia coach Corey McCall said. “We left it to too few.”
All the key measurements were won by Reservoir – including contested ball. The Saints decision making was poor at times and their turnovers were often punished to the maximum by the Mustangs. If anything, the margin slightly flattered Watsonia.
Reservoir goes to the bye safe in the knowledge that it will still be fourth after next week’s bye, ahead of a trip to Heidelberg Park to play Heidelberg West.
Watsonia faces a key match-up against South Morang this week at A.K. Lines Reserve. Despite the loss against Reservoir, a win next week would again make the Saints equal ladder leaders.
Final score: Reservoir 16.10 (106) def Watsonia 11.3 (69)
