Thomastown’s MC Labour Division 2 finals chances have taken another hit following a 20-point defeat to Banyule at Main Street Recreation Reserve.
After leading by 10 points at three quarter time, Banyule took full advantage of the wind in the last term, kicking five goals to nil to record a 10.11 (71) to 7.9 (51) win.
Despite dropping from second to third due to percentage, Banyule still remain just a game behind ladder leaders Eltham and have now won their last three matches.
Meanwhile Thomastown’s losing run now extends to four consecutive games and will need to win at least three of their last seven matches to give themselves a chance of returning to the top five.
Joshua Page put in an impressive display in what was just his fourth senior game of the season. In a best on ground performance, he was influential around the ground and capped off a stellar day out with an important goal in the final term which helped set his side up for the win.
Arben Dani put in one of his best games for the season, proving useful with his run and carry, as was Michael Edwards.
While James Kayrooz, the hero last time these two sides met, was out of the side, Banyule didn’t lack avenues to goal, with superstar forward Jack Langford having a brilliant day out.
Having kicked nine goals in his last two outings, he continued his red-hot form in front of goal, finishing the afternoon with four majors.
In the losing effort Thomastown’s Tyla Barrow was his side’s best player, breaking the lines from halfback throughout the day. It comes off the back of an impressive last six weeks of football, having been amongst the side’s top players in each game.
On the other end of the ground, Anthony Capeci was just as influential. Finishing the day with four majors, he at times looked like his side’s only hope up forward.
With a strong breeze favouring one side of the ground, both sides struggled to find the goals when against the wind. Banyule would be wayward in front of goal kicking 10.11 while Thomastown would score less than 60 points for the third straight week running, kicking eight goals of the match.
The home side had a strong start and got out to an early 14-point lead at the first break.
A four goal to one second term followed in favour of Banyule, as they quickly completed a 28-point turnaround to lead at half time.
Despite being against the wind in the third term, Banyule still had their opportunities but could only muster five behinds for their efforts. Thomastown on the other hand were able to re-establish their lead, kicking 4.5 to hold a 10-point lead at three quarter time.
The visitors were in total control throughout the final quarter, taking the lead early in the term and never looking back to record their ninth win of the season.
It sets up an enthralling ‘Battle of the Bears’ clash next week when Banyule take on Lower Plenty while Thomastown will need to play their best football to steal the four points off the in form Eltham.
