Fox the hero for Longwarry thirds
LONGWARRY have emerged as a contender in the under 18s with the return of young talent back from its senior side leading the way in a big win over Ellinbank, 15-6 (96) to 6-3 (39).
Crows key position player Lachie Spinks declared pre-game during the warm up that he was in for a big day, but it would be senior teammate Fintan Fox who would steal the show with a damaging nine goal performance.
Ellinbank put in an admirable first quarter as they went goal for goal, but the overall talent of Longwarry and some strong top up under 16 players proved too much for the Eagles to handle as the Crows kicked away.
Caleb Kriesl broke the early arm wrestle to roll through the first before a strong mark from Liam Lisle gave him the first of his four goals and the Eagles were away.
A long goal from Fox saw the Crows respond with Cooper Brown taking the advantage to set up Brock Standfield for a roving goal for a change of the lead.
Fox converted on the lead, only for Lisle to convert from the lead himself at the other end as the Crows entered the first change leading by just one-point.
The likes of Jonty Kennedy, Adam Campbell, Jack Champion, Thomas Bingham, Kynan Rintoule and Kriesl provided drive for the Eagles, ensuring the Crows would have to work for victory.
While the Eagles were able to slow the scoring late in the second term, a run of three consecutive goals in quick time opened a handy 27-point buffer for the Crows at the long break.
Fox snapped from centre half forward with assistance of a shepherd on the line, while Spinks passed to Brown drifting forward as the Crows continued their run after the break.
Lisle converted from a free kick for the Eagles, only for Fox to find Standfield for a check side goal and immediate response.
Fox snapped from the pack for another to ensure the match was in the Crows' keeping at the final change, holding a 51-point advantage.
Josh Downes, Harrison Colvin, Cody McInnes and Ned Ashton were helping the Crows control the contest.
Adam Campbell drifted forward for a late consolation for the Eagles but the Crows finished full of running, adding three goals of their own to round out a big win.