Panton Hill: 10.10-70
Fitzroy Stars: 21.17-143
Goal Kickers: J. Whitcher 4, C. Seaman 3, D. Pratt 2, R. Woods
Best Players: B. Strongman, S. Gunn, J. Singh, R. Woods, J. Whitcher, D. Pratt
The most disappointing this about this result is that the Hillers were within a goal at three quarter time.
Coming off a couple of losses to genuine finals’ contenders, the Redbacks were very keen to get back on the winners list. Despite some of the Fitzroy Stars having played in the dreamtime exhibition match at the MCG the night before, it was a tight game from the word go and they were serving it right up to Panton Hill. The boys were quite competitive throughout the first three quarters and the narrow margin at the final break seemed to indicate that the big Sunday crowd were in for a close finish.
Disappointingly this was not the case. The Redbacks dropped right away and allowed the stars to slam on eleven goals in the last quarter to run out comfortable winners.
It may feel like a case of de ja vu, but Benny Strongman was once again very impressive and easily best a field for Panton Hill.
RESERVES CHANCE GOES BEGGING
Panton Hill: 4.12-36
Fitzroy Stars: 9.16-70
Goal Kickers: T. Dummett 3, M. Peck
Best Players: A. Solum, T. Coleman, S. Northrop, S. Jones, D. Belcher, A. Anderson
The stage was set on Sunday for a good showcase game. The crowd was in early to watch the juniors, and many decided to hang around to watch the reserves straight after. There was a good feeling of confidence amongst the players, and the Hills were hungry for a win.
The match started well enough, with plenty of attacking as the Hills kicked to the scoreboard end, with the crowd on their side. However, missed opportunities in front of goal from several players cost the Redbacks in the first half, and the Stars were able to convert more often on the counter-attack. In the end the score line flattered Fitzroy’s performance, as the Hills were competitive all game, and only faded towards the end of the match due to a mounting injury toll.
Solly was a standout in the backline, giving vital support to Walshy, who took another step on the back of last weeks best-on performance, however mysteriously does not appear in the best six this week. It could be argued that this is due to a relatively even and consistent performance among the playing group. Trenta played his best game in a long time, carving up the wings of the ground and was well assisted by the likes of Steve, Belch and Adam Anderson. It was good to see a familiar face in Simon Jones back in the team, and he provided great support through the middle of the ground. Welcome back Jonesy.
Next week the Hills face possibly their biggest challenge yet, taking on former division 1 side Epping, at their home ground. The Redbacks will take a lot of positives out of Sunday’s match and will be keen to build on those on Saturday.
