Williamstown CYMS vs De La Salle

Match Report

Unfortunately not much riding on today’s game, but as you would expect at this level, both teams had a point to prove and wanted to finish the season on a high.

DeLa U19 Blues trekked across the West gate today to take on Williamstown at their home ground. Conditions were settled, which is not usually the case in this quaint bayside suburb. Due to a few injuries last week, there were some necessary adjustments to our playing list, so Tom Blaikie got the call up for his first Blues game, and we were fortunate to have McNidder and Fisicaro back from injury.

Pressure and work rate from DeLa was excellent during the first quarter. Our smalls in particular were hunting and tackling at every contest, which made things difficult for the home side. Two quick goals from Muzz and one goal from Pickles, all from energised ball movement had us a few points up at the first break.

Intensity from DeLa and ability to clear at Centre bounces in the second quarter dropped off. This obviously put pressure on our backline, which was nothing new to this experienced bunch. Many times during the season, our backline have had to deal with some very strong teams, and today was another good example of that. Although Williamstown managed to slot through five majors to our nil, the determination and effort from our back six certainly did not go un-noticed. Players like Stewart, Harper, Mounas and O’Meara had big roles to play, and played them well.

Half time message was relatively simple – more focus on winning the ball. Our midfielders responded well, particularly McNidder and Higg, which was much appreciated by our backline. A few more forward entries resulted in nice goals to McMahon and Kelly. Our talls also started to lift with Harper and Lyngberg combining well in the ruck.

Final quarter of the game (and of the season), was an opportunity for this group to appreciate playing together. Harper provided some magic with his clearance from the middle and finished with a penetrating 50m goal. Kelly also put through his second for the game.

Post match the team showed their appreciation for the support and care that they have received for the entire season. A huge thank you to the following: Monique, Ewen, Declan, Chris and Stu McNidder for making the season a great success and for providing an environment for the players to do what they love doing – play footy.

Goals: A. Murray 2, A. Kelly 2, J.Pickles, E. McMahon, J. Harper
Best: J.Harper, S. McNidder, L. Lyngberg, J. Pickles, E. Macbeth, M. Higginbotham