Hampton Rovers 14.11 (95) def. Oakleigh Dragons 2.0 (12)
Clear and crisp football conditions presented themselves at Oakleigh on Sunday. Captains for the day were Dan Beaven & Jack Roberts who both relished the opportunity each turning in terrific games.
We knew our opponents were in good form and the 18 who lined up were switched on from the start and ready for a big day. As is becoming the team trademark the first 5 minutes were very strong with the Rovers having the best of the early part of the game continually entering the ball into the forward line. Josh Cameron started in midfield for the first time in 2017 and set the scene continually marking the ball from opposition kicks and sending the ball to the top of the square. Harry Lewis was also set for a huge day as he demonstrated high early standards winning the ball in a pack as 1 against 5 and also registered the first goal for the day. Angus & Joe hit the scoreboard with great goals in the first quarter setting a strong foundation against a scoreless Oakleigh at the break.
The teamwork in the second quarter was simply brilliant with all players full of voice, focused on being first to the ball and keeping their feet in the contest. Josh Haines was again in great form and presented exceptionally as a target scoring 2 consecutive goals. Nick White enjoyed a great first half in the forward line and centered a kick beautifully to Jonty who marked and played on to score a great goal. At the main break the Rovers were in a commanding position and showed no signs of easing up.
After a strong first half it was time to mix it up in the third quarter and WOWWEE the boys loved it! Commanding attack on the footy, great teamwork and in particular an increased effort to shepherd was demonstrated across the field in all positions. After a few weeks of top class effort Tom K got on the board with a major from a strong mark, Josh Haines busted a pack getting a ball to Zain who goaled for the second time in 2 weeks. Harry Lewis and Fletch moved the ball into the forward line swiftly allowing Josh H, Josh C and Angus to also register majors.
Bring on more position changes in the last and enter Pat McConville who with Josh H (another goal in the quarter) as ruck and running in tandem with Fletch had the first 3 clearances of the last and registered a goal himself. Josh Cameron was sick of being compared to Sam Mitchell using both sides of his body so he decided he would become Eddie Betts and kick a left foot goal on the run from the left pocket boundary. Seriously Josh…… that was AWESOME!
Speaking of AWESOME that was every Rovers player today! The team were confronted with a few unsporting challenges through the game as the opposition became increasingly frustrated. Holding firm to the Rovers mantra none of the boys were drawn in and showed genuine class holding true to our club mantra of Passion, Teamwork, Fun & Respect.
The boys enjoyed a big game and finished by singing the song at full volume in Dragon HQ.
Go Rovers!
David
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