HAWKS‘ FINALS HOPES FADE AFTER TWO-POINT LOSS
DRYSDALE’S inability to seize the winning moment in games has cost it dearly this season, according to coach Wade Chapman.
The Hawks fell to Queenscliff by two points on Saturday in agonising circumstances, and Chapman said his team could not just be content with getting close.
“We have had opportunities throughout the year where we had chances to win the game and we probably haven’t sensed the moment,” Chapman said.
“Whether that is our skill level or not grinding our teeth enough, the guys are still learning the caper, but it is disappointing for the boys not to get the four points.
“They need to learn that, to not be happy with competitive losses.”
The result all but seals Drysdale’s fate in 2018 and keeps Queenscliff in the hunt for a finals berth.
Favourable outcomes in the round’s other matches mean that the Coutas are now outside the top five on percentage only, with coming games against the bottom two teams, Newcomb and Portarlington, either side of the league bye.
TORQUAY has slipped to seventh after receiving a wake-up call from Barwon Heads, which remains two games clear on top of the ladder. Damien Horbury kicked five goals as the Seagulls finished 68-point winners, ensuring Anglesea’s push for top spot is now just that little bit harder.
The Roos were too strong for Ocean Grove and claimed a stirring 37-point victory at Ray Menzies Oval, while Modewarre and reigning premier Geelong Amateur had convincing wins against Portarlington and Newcomb.
The Warriors kicked 27 goals against the Demons and had 12 individual goalkickers, with former Melbourne and Richmond midfielder Ricky Petterd bagging five in the 149-point win.
A 12-goal second half was enough to get Ammos home against the Power.