Gallant Gulls fall to Lions
by Davyd Reid
‘Keep the faith’.
That was the message from former Greater Western Sydney and Carlton AFL player Kristian Jaksch to this dejected Blues fan following another disappointing loss to Richmond in the opening round of 2018.
While Jaksch played a big part in a comfortable victory for his current side Moe on Sunday, Warragul showed signs that they too will be worth persisting with as the young side looks to develop and improve under coach Dean Alger.
The Gulls were good early and took the lead into quarter time before falling away against a skilled Moe outfit looking to push for another finals appearance in the Gippsland League, the Lions prevailing 15-17 (107) to 79 (51).
Warragul took the early advantage through a rare double goal. Mitch Nobelius converted from the goal square courtesy of a 50-metre penalty before putting one through from the pack as the Gulls went forward from a free kick in the centre.
As has been the theme in stages of their matches this season, the Gulls were able to keep the ball in their front half to force multiple inside 50s.
Mason McGarrity made a good start, with a strong mark and chase down tackle to force a turnover the highlights of the opening term.
Unfortunately, the Gulls were not able to make the most of their opportunities and probably should have enjoyed a greater lead than its nine points.
Jaksch came into his own in the second term. He booted three goals and a long goal from Jacob Wood helped the Lions to a 21-point lead at the long break.
The Lions continued their run on in the third term, scoring four goals to one with Warragul’s major coming courtesy of an advantage from a free kick.
Despite falling to seven goals behind, the Gulls didn’t give up and continued to put in a big effort. A chase the length of the field from McGarrity demonstrated Warragul’s determination.
A crisp piece of play from Moe opened the final term. Mitch Stanlake, who had cut off several Warragul attacks, moved forward to find Cameron Manuel on the lead.
Not to be distracted by some push and shove that came into the game late, the Gulls were able to match it with the Lions for the remainder of the contest.
Consecutive goals brought some joy for the home crowd, as did a strong grab in defence from Sean Masterson. Matt Ross, Sam Whibley, Lachlan Bambridge, Tyrone Winder and Nobelius were also playing good games for Warragul.
The Lions scored the final two goals of the game to round out a comfortable victory despite being tested at times. Scott Van Dyk, Wood, Lachlan Macleod, Grady Cocksedge and Ben Morrow were named best for Moe.