Ammos kick off with win
A STINGY defence proved the difference between a win and a loss as Geelong Amateur kicked off its campaign with a victory over Anglesea on Saturday.
Just eight points separated the two sides at Alcoa Oval, but Ammos proved a class above in the crunch moments.
At halftime, the visitors led by nine points before kicking out to a four-goal buffer, before the Seas swung the momentum and reduced the deficit back to nine points at the final change.
But the new-look Ammos, led by St Joseph’s premiership defender and captain Daniel Lovick, again kicked away, finding a buffer that eventually proved insurmountable.
Both sides played like potential finalists, with slick skills and contested marks showcasing a good display of footy.
Ammos playing co-coach Jarrod Young said there was plenty to like about the win.
“Round 1 is a bit of an unknown but it’s nice to come down here to a side who’s ob- viously really improved and come away with the result,” he said.
“The determination from the boys, we never really got away from Anglesea all day so just to fight it out, it wasn’t pretty some of the time but just the determination was really good.”
With four new players in the green and blue, including prolific ex-St Mary’s utility James Koroneos, Young said his side would look different to previous seasons.
“It’s definitely a different group again,” he said.
“It will take time for us to find exactly what works but the (new) boys today, they all fitted in nicely and performed their role well.
“Chris Kangars did an amazing job on Erskine today, a really, really good job. Young Daniel Grose played well on Daniel and ‘Lovey’ (Daniel Lovick) does what he does best.
“Everything I expected of Daniel he did today. He’s a great leader and he’s only been here for just over six months, but you can just tell the sort of person he is and how he’s fit into this group. He’s going to be amazing for us.”
Ammos used all 40 of their player points this weekend, with Cameron Young (three points) forced to sit out, while Anglesea used 39.
The perennial finalists face Ocean Grove this weekend.
“They’ve recruited well as well and the last time we played Ocean Grove they beat us, so they’re a good side,” Young said.