Inaccurate kicking costly
An inaccurate Ellinbank stumbled for the first time this season as Poowong snapped a two-game losing stretch to win at home 10-9 to 7-17.
The 10-point victory in a topsy-turvy affair kept Pooowong in touch with the five.
The Magpies team leapt out of the blocks with a big first quarter opening a 27-point lead at quarter time.
Despite only kicking into a slight breeze the Magpies failed to hit the scoreboard in the second quarter while ladder leaders Ellinbank kicked 5-6.
At the half the Eagles had turned a four and a half goal deficit into a 10point lead.
The tide turned again in the third quarter as Poowong re-established their dominance with four goals while the visitors failed to kick a major. At the final break the score-line read Poowong 10-7-67 to 7-11-53.
The question for Poowong was whether its 14-point lead was enough against a fast finishing Ellinbank kicking with the wind.
The answer to the question was in the affirmative.
Ellinbank dominated possession around the ground in the last quarter but they will rue their inability to convert chances in front of goal. Despite holding the ball in their forward line for lengthy periods the Eagles were only able to register six behinds for the quarter to the Magpie’s two.
It was no coincidence that members of the Magpies’ back six in Jaemeel Knecht, Harvey, James Doria and Jayden Sullivan all featured in the club’s voting. Their ability to apply strong pressure to the surging Ellinbank was a significant factor in the visitor’s failure to convert.
Jack Hazendonk was dangerous up forward and his three goals were priceless.
Michael Harris battled all day and his solo contribution in the ruck was enough to receive a vote from the coach.
While they struggled to score in the last quarter, Poowong’s stout defence in a goalless last term proved enough for the win as they head to in form Neerim-Neerim South next week.
Best for a disappointed Ellinbank were Lachlan Cove, Hayden Stagg, Tom Robertson, Michael Urie, Francis D’’Agostino and Josh Peterson.