Laurimar took a big step in its quest to take a double-chance into the Heidelberg Golf Club Division 3 finals, with a 41-point win over Heidelberg West at Laurimar Reserve.
The Power wrested total control of the match after quarter time – booting 6.10 to 0.2 in the second and third terms to open a match-winning 48-point lead.
The Hawks won the final quarter, but it was too little too late, with the Power winning 11.15 (81) to 6.4 (40).
Laurimar began the day in second place but dropped to third spot despite their win. This rare phenomenon occurred because Kilmore had a triple figure win over Reservoir.
Both Kilmore and Laurimar now boast 6-2 records, while Heidelberg West is a game further back in fourth place, at 5-3.
Laurimar clearly won in the clinches when the match was up for grabs. Captain Mitch Thompson continued his good form from before the mid-season break and led from the front.
Ethan Gorski proved an effective linkman and got plenty of ball through the midfield. The Power had many other winners through the midfield and boasted a multi-pronged attack.
Josh Williamson, Daniel Francis, Matthew Gersh and Koby Trajanovski each booted two majors. Trajanovski was extremely impressive with numerous contested marks around half forward.
With Francis in the senior team for the first time and playing deep forward, the competition’s leading goal-kicker Williamson spent more time roaming around half forward.
Naturally, Laurimar coach Jimmy Atkins was delighted with the result.
“I’m very proud of the way we came back from the break,” Atkins said.
“The players were as fit or even fitter than four weeks ago.”
Atkins was pleased that the team’s defensive structures held up and the Hawks rarely transferred the ball smoothly.
Finding an avenue to goal proved difficult for Heidelberg West for most of the contest. The Power defence held firm – led by Jake Richards, Brayden Burgess and Kaiden Arthur.
The Hawks had numerous injuries to deal with. They lost Allan Young early in the match and Daniel Offer injured a hamstring.
“Laurimar handled the break well and supported each other better than what we were able to do,” Heidelberg coach Michael Missen said.
Despite the loss, there were some positives for the Hawks. Their defence – led by Ben Kennan – held up very well.
Jordan Allen played his best game for the club and finished off his work with a wonderful goal on the run, while Brad Moore contributed well.
Masaki Miki toiled hard to lift his team after the main break and triple best and fairest winner Jarryd Coulson did some good work around the ground.
Heidelberg West hosts Kilmore at Heidelberg Park next up and may need to win to retain its spot in the top four, with Old Eltham Collegians now within one win of the Hawks.
Laurimar travels to Lalor Reserve to clash with Lalor and can claim second place on the ladder with a win, if the Hawks also win.
Final score: Laurimar 11.15 (81) def Heidelberg West 6.4 (40)
LAURIMAR
Goal Kickers: K. Trajanovski 2, J. Williamson 2, D. Francis 2, M. Gersh 2, M. Thompson, M. Higgins, J. Coco
Best Players: K. Trajanovski, M. Thompson, M. Gersh, J. Lawson, K. Arthur, B. Burgess
HEIDELBERG WEST
Goal Kickers: A. Hywood 2, J. Coulson, J. Allen, H. Mozdzierz, J. Marris
Best Players: B. Kennan, J. Allen, J. Coulson, B. Moore, R. Offer, J. Marris
