MC Labour Division 2 football was packed full of action with impressive one-point victories alongside some commanding wins by usual suspects.
The Fitzroy Stars edged out Lower Plenty by ten points in a hard-fought contest, strengthening the Stars’ push towards finals.
Despite finishing with just 54% scoring efficiency and 41% goal accuracy, the Stars found a way to get the job done. Kain Proctor was once again the standout, leading from the front with 32 disposals and two goals in a match-winning performance. Lachlan Edwards provided plenty of support, collecting 23 disposals, seven clearances and five rebound 50s as the Stars held firm to claim an important four points.
For Lower Plenty, Jack Hutchison battled tirelessly across half back, finishing with 32 disposals and 12 rebound 50s in an impressive display. Jordan Smith also made his presence felt with 24 disposals and a goal.
While the Bears fell short, they showed enough fight to suggest they’ll remain a dangerous side as the season heads towards the finals.
Macleod claimed an impressive victory over Whittlesea at the Showgrounds, continuing their strong run of form.
While it wasn’t the result the Eagles were after, there were still plenty of positives to take away. Deakin Tennant was outstanding across half back, finishing with 28 disposals, seven rebound 50s and seven marks in a determined display. Paul Higgins also worked tirelessly through the midfield, collecting 30 disposals and a remarkable 22 contested possessions as the Eagles fought hard until the final siren.
For Macleod, Darcy Barden set the tone early with an influential performance, booting four goals from 19 disposals. Mackenzie Hogg continued his outstanding season with another dominant display, gathering 32 disposals and three goals. In the ruck, Zachary Hudson controlled the contest, finishing with 44 hit outs and 21 disposals to give the Roos first use around the ground.
Thomastown defended home turf with a 20-point victory over Old Paradians, pulling away after a tight contest through the opening three quarters.
Jeffrey Garlett was a constant threat inside 50, finishing with three goals to lead the Bears’ attack. Anthony Capeci and Zain Yamak also hit the scoreboard, combining for four goals between them. Lawrence Lopiccolo led by example through the middle, collecting 21 disposals, laying nine tackles and recording seven inside 50s, while Yamak was influential all over the ground with 26 disposals and two goals.
Despite the loss, Old Paradians had several standout performers. Connor Macdonald continued his outstanding season with another dominant display, finishing with 54 hit outs, 32 disposals and 15 clearances. Billy Bedford was prolific with 32 disposals, while Kyle O’Sullivan added 27 disposals and 11 tackles in a tireless performance. Although they couldn’t secure the four points, the Raiders remain firmly in the finals hunt as they continue their climb up the ladder.
Northcote Park continue to fly through the season, recording another impressive win with a 65-point victory over Panton Hill.
Sitting on top of the table, the Cougars only strengthened their finals credentials with another commanding performance. Jordan Perry led the way through the midfield, putting the game on his shoulders with 36 disposals, 17 clearances and six tackles. Damon Marcon provided strong support with 32 disposals and five marks, helping the Cougars control the contest and finish full of confidence.
For Panton Hill, Riley Livingstone stood tall across the backline, collecting 20 disposals and seven rebound 50s in a strong defensive display. Nicholas Parks battled hard in the ruck with 42 hit outs, nine disposals and five tackles. Despite the result, the Redbacks showed promising signs as they look to build momentum in the second half of the season.
In one of the games of the round, St Mary’s held on to defeat South Morang by one point in a thrilling finish.
Rory Hanlon was outstanding for the Burra, collecting 26 disposals, seven clearances and seven uncontested marks in a commanding midfield display. Tane Cotter also played a vital role, finishing with 26 disposals and seven tackles as St Mary’s edged their way into the top four and strengthened their finals credentials.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, South Morang had plenty of standout performers. Sebastian Latina was electric in front of goal, booting six of the Lions’ ten majors in a superb individual effort. Davin Cameron starred through the midfield with 36 disposals and 17 contested possessions, while Alex Kirkopoulos provided plenty of drive from defence with 25 disposals and four rebound 50s.
With finals fast approaching, both sides continue to show they have the talent and determination to make a serious impact in the post-season.
