Centrals assert their authority
WERRIBEE Centrals confirmed their claim as a serious premiership contender, prevailing by eight points in a heavyweight clash against Thomson.
The Centurions were able to take a one-goal lead into the main break after a fiercely contested, free-flowing opening half produced 19 goals.
Thomson big man Andrew Jarvis took control of the much-anticipated battle with Centrals youngster Paddy Daley, but Tyler Crennan and Brad Carlton were still able to influence the contest and keep Werribee in the game.
Their battle for midfield control with in-form Tigers duo Jono Casey and Troy Fenyvesi was a highlight within the game.
Both teams’ defences lifted after the main break, as only four goals were conceded in a tight tussle, with Werribee small defender David Sablich named best-on-ground.
The contribution of respective small forwards Brendan Wilson, with four goals, and the three-goal return from Thomson co-coach Jarrod Westwood were vital to their teams’ chances.
The siren sounded with a 14.8 (92) to 13.6 (84) victory to the Centurions and will provide them with a springboard to a tricky month ahead.
The loss leaves Thomson languishing in ninth and facing a hard road home.
BANNOCKBURN v BELL POST HILL
BELL Post Hill sounded a warning to the competition with a comprehensive 11.12 (78) to 4.7 (31) upset win over reigning premiers Bannockburn.
The Tigers struggled early, but were still in the contest at half-time, only 23 points in arrears. A goalless second half shocked the Tigers fans and opens up the competition.
Jack Yates and Dylan Witney were brilliant for the Panthers in the midfield, while Dan Measures was the Tigers’ best.
NORTH GEELONG v BELMONT LIONS
NORTH Geelong continues to battle with inexplicable inconsistency, but managed to win 21.14 (140) to 15.6 (96) on the back of a dominant 10-goal-to-nil third quarter.
The Lions were superb in the first half, well pleased to be only one point down at the main break, but then copped the Magpies at their best.
Mitch Habib slotted five goals for the winners, while Brent Jacques booted seven majors for the Lions.
WINCHELSEA v EAST GEELONG
WINCHELSEA’S woes continued as East Geelong careered away to win 29.15 (189) to 5.8 (38).
Ryan Lempa bagged seven goals for the Eagles and teenager Hugh Menzies backed up his debut heroics with another six-goal haul.
GEELONG WEST v CORIO
GEELONG West Giants had to work hard to shake off a determined Corio, but eased away to win 15.8 (98) to 6.5 (41).
Alex Blair kicked another four goals for the winners, while the returning Joel Bennett matched his efforts for the Devils.
ANAKIE v INVERLEIGH
INVERLEIGH made light work of Anakie, winning 32.20 (212) to 2.6 (18).
Hawks playing coach Adam Donohue was the dominant forward on the ground with eight goals, but impressive youngster Fin O’Keefe won the plaudits as his club’s best player.