The Redbacks were in control of the game for most of the day despite conceding the first two goals and managed to hold a four-goal lead up until the final siren.
On the day it celebrated the 65 year anniversary of its 1947 premiership success, Reservoir provided a hard contest and made sure that it was never too far out of reach. However it was the Redbacks’ ability to find space and use the ball better that enabled them to get over the top.
The first quarter rained goals as the teams combined for nine majors throughout the quarter. Reservoir started strongly, kicking the first two but Panton Hill quickly took control of the game. The Redbacks started to get first hands on the ball and win the clearances. This resulted in the ball staying in Panton Hill’s attacking half and the forwards duly converted, kicking five goals in a row.
But before they could run away the Mustangs hit back, kicking the last two to reduce the margin to 11 points.
In the second quarter both teams stepped up their games. The Mustangs started winning their share of contested ball. The teams went goal for goal at the beginning of the quarter but it was Panton Hill who yet again made the most of its advantage, kicking three goals in a row midway through the quarter. While Reservoir was able to drag back two late goals it was Panton Hill who improved its lead to 17 at the half.
The game looked like it was going to be a shootout with 18 goals to the half but both teams came out after half time with a defensive focus. Each of the backlines stood up and defended desperately. Their job was made easier by the scrappy nature of the third quarter. There was plenty of pressure around the ball and the disposal efficiency dropped. The quarter ended in a stalemate as Reservoir and Panton Hill were only able to kick one goal each.
Coming into the final quarter Reservoir was 18 points down but still in with a chance. However Panton Hill had other ideas. It grabbed the first clearance and was quickly able to find Joffa Byron who converted. From there the Redbacks peppered their forward line with entries and Byron was able to kick two of the next four to but the game beyond reach.
The best for Panton Hill was Brett Thorn he led the way in the midfield providing plenty of run. His good disposal was able to make a difference. Ben Parker was also impressive on the wing making the most of the open spaces of Crispe Park. Joffa Byron efforts cannot be overlooked either, his five goals, particularly his three in the last quarter, were crucial to the win.
As for Reservoir Jason Dal Santo excelled in the centre, standing up when the Mustangs needed it and keeping them in the game. In addition to him, Ben Mowlam was a rock down back and was able get on the end of many of Panton Hill’s attacks and kill the contest.
This week Panton Hill heads home to face a Parkside team coming off the bye while Reservoir faces another big clash against a strong Mernda outfit that has only lost to Panton Hill and sits second on the ladder.
Final score: Reservoir 12.8 (80) def by Panton Hill 15.15 (105)
