We produced a strong four quarter performance to record a 30-point victory over Williamstown CYMS, built on ball movement, territory dominance and our ability to win the contest around the ground.

Despite losing the hit-outs and finishing slightly behind in total clearances, our midfield group worked tirelessly to compete at ground level. Once we won possession, our ability to spread and link by hand and foot allowed us to control large periods of the game.

The key difference was our work around the ground. We finished with 76 more disposals, 51 more marks and 12 more inside 50 entries, highlighting our ability to retain possession and consistently put the opposition defence under pressure. Our disposal efficiency of 71% compared to Williamstown's 64% ensured we were able to make the most of our opportunities with ball in hand.

Defensively, the group was outstanding. We won the intercept possession count, restricted Williamstown to just 42 inside 50s and forced 88 opposition turnovers. Our pressure and organisation behind the ball allowed us to repeatedly regain possession and launch attacks from defence.

A major strength was our ability to win the uncontested ball and control field position. We recorded 105 uncontested marks, and 68 loose ball gets, demonstrating our willingness to work hard for each other and support the ball carrier.

The midfield was led by James Allen (41 disposals), Patrick Blew (29) and Sam Veitch (29), who all had significant influence around the contest and in transition. Lachie Powell was exceptional with 20 disposals at 100% efficiency, while our defensive unit consistently provided intercept and rebound opportunities.

While the result was pleasing, there is still room for improvement. We allowed Williamstown to gain an advantage in the clearances, and our conversion in front of goal (12.15) suggests we left further opportunities on the table.

Overall, it was a disciplined and mature performance that showcased our ability to defend strongly, move the ball effectively and control territory. The challenge now is to build on these standards as we prepare for next week's contest.

The boys battled hard but Willy were too strong on the day. Next week.


 

A hard-fought contest ultimately ending in an agonising 2 point loss for the Wellers.
 
The opening half was a genuine arm wrestle, with neither side able to generate momentum. Every possession was contested and both defences worked hard to keep their team in it. At the main break, the game sat delicately poised, both teams searching for a spark.
 
It was Collegians who responded first. After ½ time they took control of the game, piling on 6 goals to 1 in a dominant 3rd term. Their run, spread, and clean ball movement carved open the Wellers’ defensive structures, and suddenly the margin blew out to 35 points at the final change. The Wellers looked flat, but the coaching group remained positive and injected belief back into the group.
 
What followed was a final quarter that showcased everything this U19 side stands for. Attacking with purpose from the centre, they surged forward repeatedly, slamming home 7 goals to 2 in a blistering comeback. The masterstroke came when Oli Lowewas swung from defence to full forward, where he produced a stunning 5 goal burst that dragged the Wellers to within striking distance.
 
In the end, time was the only thing that beat them, falling agonisingly short 11.11.77 to 12.7.79. Despite the narrow defeat, the team’s never‑say‑die attitude lives on.

Another solid win at home.

The People's XVIII hang on for a historic victory.