Heidelberg have extended their flawless start to the 2024 Melbourne Greyhounds Division 1 season with a commanding 30-point win in their top of the table clash with Greensborough at Greensborough War Memorial Park.
The Tigers displayed all the hunger of a side intent on a third consecutive dose of premiership success, cutting apart a brave Boro outfit who could not capitalise on their opportunities.
Despite having less scoring shots than Greensborough to half-time, the Tigers managed to extend their lead at every break, resulting in a statement-making 13.12 (90) to 8.12 (60) victory.
Luke Bunker and Dylan Clarke continued their brilliant starts to the season in midfield, with the pair relishing their centre bounce chances in the absence of fellow premiership teammates Lachlan Wilson and Brayden Sier.
Heidelberg captain Keenan Posar starred in defence, using every opportunity to take on his opponent and spark his side’s transition ball movement which helped nine unique goalkickers hit the scoreboard.
Sam Wright led this tally with three majors, followed by Zane Barzen and Tom Keys who both claimed two goals apiece.
Greensborough’s Charlie Bowes eclipsed this tally with four goals, but a combination of wayward goalkicking and an experienced Tigers defence meant he remained the only multiple scorer for the Boro.
Matthew Hyde’s side looked at their best when Kristian Ferronato had the ball in his hands, with the 19-year old routinely breaking tackles and driving the ball forward from tight congestion.
This skill to remain composed under pressure immediately appeared invaluable as the Tigers surged to a lightning-quick start.
Sean Martin launched a pass from well outside 50 over a pack and the ball fortuitously rolled through before a second trickled in between the big sticks just minutes later.
Greensborough struggled for any clean possession against Heidelberg’s onslaught, but against the run of play the Boro kicked two consecutive goals through Charlie Bowes which tied the scores.
However, three straight goals for the visitors speared control firmly back into their hands, as Brody Tardio, Sam Wright and Max Thompson punished the Boro in clinical fashion.
Just as Heidelberg looked to cement this three-goal lead into the first break, Martin Fitzgerald claimed a late major to restrict the margin to 12 points and provide a much-needed momentum swing.
In the second quarter, the Boro charged out the gates with a similar ferocity to Heidelberg’s start to the match.
Jackson Hasler’s elite foot skills orchestrated the match’s tempo, alongside the ever-trustworthy duo of Jack Johnston and Angus Seivers who led the chain of play from their defensive 50.
Matthew Lewis’s goal brought the Boro within a kick, but two missed set shots from Jamie Smith left the door ajar for Heidelberg to wrestle back control.
Sam Wright snagged his second major before Zane Barzen kicked the goal of the day from against the fence in the corner of the forward 50 arc.
It would prove to be a frustrating term for the hosts, who would have to settle for just the one goal from six attempts.
Leading now by 14 points at half-time, the Tiger’s emerged from the main break with a determination to send the game beyond reach.
Brody Tardio fought doggedly to win the hard ball, whilst Mitchell Jorgensen remained a constant aerial threat at both ends of the ground, as well as in the ruck.
Heidelberg debutant Ben De Bolfo looked comfortable down back, showing the poise he has produced at VFL level this season by regularly taking on his opponent and creating passages of quick ball movement.
Brody Glenn tried to will his team away back into the contest, but Heidelberg’s class was already shining too vividly.
The reigning premiers closed out a four goal to two quarter and it would prove too far back for the Boro to mount a comeback.
Jamie Smith converted a set shot for his overdue first goal of the match, but the Tigers appetite for winning could not be quenched.
A spectacular Tom Keys snap from the 50-metre arc rounded out another celebratory afternoon for Vin Dattoli’s men, who would sail comfortably to a 30-point win.
Despite six consecutive away fixtures, Heidelberg remain the only undefeated side in the competition, and look primed for yet another premiership pursuit.
