Panthers win thriller over Hawks
BELL Post Hill coach Brad Martin has lauded his side’s ability to overcome injury and hang on for a thrilling onepoint win over Inverleigh in a gripping grand final rematch.
While the Panthers surrendered a matchcontrolling six-goal lead at half time, the result will serve as a reference point for the rest of the season.
“We just had to keep possession of the football and we made some silly choices by going long in the last quarter as a result of their pressure,” Martin said.
Forwards Nick Costello and Jayden Ettridge kicked six goals between them for the day, including combining for five goals in the second quarter.
Matthew James, Shane Lymer, Jake Barlow and Caleb Bacely also found plenty of football prior to the main break as the Panthers strode to half time in front 10.7 to 4.4.
But injuries to Tane Rabbas (ankle) and Attila Sulics (corky) early in the third term allowed the Hawks’ back into the game before running out of time in their bid for a rare win at Myers Reserve.
Barlow was again named in the best for the Panthers, flying back into contests time after time in another 20-plus disposal game.
“To have 22 boys play their role was our key, we knew if they would all put in we’d win and we did,” Martin said.
“In Round 1 (against Belmont) we went away from our game plan and we probably had 10 blokes play their role and then the next week against Thomson we didn’t have 22.
“Against East Geelong, sacrifices were made, we came out and we were almost there.
“But this week we finally got there and that was the result of a massive week on the track where we highlighted the ways we could expose Inverleigh.”
Both Daniel Walve (who finished with three goals) and Tim Barton spent time away from the back six, allowing Lymer and Danny Gray to intercept Inverleigh’s entries.
“Justin Baxter stood out as a go-through man, so we wanted to have Tim (Barton) around him,” Martin said.
“I know we’ve had a lot of players (10) in the interleague squad, but Danny Gray should also be in there.
“He puts his hand up every week, doesn’t get beaten, he’s our elite runner and his skills have been fantastic — you can’t fault Danny.”