Warriors too good for Crocs

WARATAH consolidated its top-five position following an impressive win over Southern Districts at Gardens Oval last night. Leading at every change, the quick-moving, strong marking red-and-white team won 11.8 (74) to 4.13 (37).

In comfortable playing conditions, Tahs started the better, and when Robert Turnbull goaled thanks to a warranted free kick in the square, the home team was rewarded for early effort. Although a clever soccer goal from Croc forward Andrew Boseley evened the ledger at the halfway mark of the opening term, Warriors ruckman Arnold Kirby was in charge of the aerial duels and, together with a winning midfield, Waratah powered to a healthy lead at the first break.

Both teams lifted a notch in the second term. However, the Waratah scoring surge continued following a crafty mark and goal to Brodie Carroll.

That goal seemed to trigger Districts into motion, and they owned the ball for a long period, but a robust Tahs defence and sloppy use of the ball denied the Crocs any return for endeavour. And against the run of play, a Waratah goal through Sam Godden closed out the half.

Tahs midfield dynamo Dylan Collis took over at the start of the third and his team was an immediate beneficiary when small forward Jordan Keras booted the opener.

Mitch O’Donnell repeated the dose a few minutes later, and when big forward Cameron Arnold marked and goaled twice, Districts found themselves without answers to the pace, desperation and system of their opponents.