Epping: 21.15-141
Panton Hill: 8.7-55
Goal Kickers: J. Whitcher 3, W. Box 2, S. Walker, T. Power, S. Gunn
Best Players: B. Strongman, W. Box, J. Whitcher, G. Oakley, J. Singh, J. Ballock
Although the score line is not flattering, Epping certainly didn’t have things all their own way. It was a hard fought first term with the back line standing up well and the Hillers were only down by a few goals at the first break. The former divi 1 side were unfortuantely outplaying Panton Hill and extended their lead to eight goals by the main break.
There were promosing signs at the start of the second half with a couple of goals to Panton Hill, but Epping had all the answers. The third quarter went along the same lines – the Redbacks not doing much wrong, but just being outplayed by a more skilful side. The eleven goal deficit at the final change didn’t really seem representative of the state of the game. Panton Hill kept their heads, finished strong and were quite impressive in the last term. Given Epping were in division 1 side last year and have just hit form (beating two of the top sides in the past fortnight), restricting them to just three goals (to our one) in a game where the result was already beyond doubt, was a really great effort.
As is becoming very much a weekly occurrence, Strongy accumulated possessions at will and would be an almost unbackable favourite for the best-and-fairest with yet another BOG performance. Will Box was outstanding in the first half and absolutely dominated one of Eppings better players. He kicked two goals to boot which is not a regular feature of his game, so I am sure he’ll be happy to run you through them if you’re interested! Witcher kicked three and was a solid contributor, as was Oaksey against his old side.
Some positive signs to come from this game as we head into the mid-season break. Rambo challenged the players to stick tight and train with real purpose as we prepare for the local derby against Hurstbridge in two weeks.
REDBACK RESERVES ANNIHILATED
Epping: 41.15-261
Panton Hill: 1.3-9
Goal Kickers: J. Anderson
Best Players: D. Belcher, T. Coleman, C. Cahir, B. Hathaway, G. Wise, S. Northrop
It was always going to be tough for the Hills. Injuries aplenty plus several players promoted to the senior squad meant that the player stocks were limited. Furthermore, the 6-man bench had somehow reduced to one player prior to the game. Several players were also carrying injury niggles, but that’s no excuse is it? Regardless, it was hardly the ideal way to man up against one of the best sides in the competition.
The Panton Hill players have been in the situation before, and miracles were never expected of the group. It is the passion and the hard work and commitment that people want to see. Unfortunately there were very few players who put in a four quarter effort, with the notable exceptions of Belcher and Trenta, who received little support for their efforts.
Anyone watching the performance from the sidelines would no doubt have been disappointed by the manner in which the team appeared to roll over for Epping. Some may even have questioned the desire of the players. The result was far from acceptable, and Coach Jono Manzoney made that clear, putting the heat on the players to take some pride in their own performances and work for each other.
The long weekend has come at a good time, with an opportunity for players to rest, and reflect on the first half of the season before taking it to the cross town rivals, Hurstbridge, on 14 June. This will be a big home game and the players will be eager to right the wrongs of the first half of the season.
