Williamstown 19.20-134 def Geelong 15.12-102
Goal Kickers: M. Hahn 5, W. Minson 3, B. Goodes 2, L. Jones 2, B. Moles 2, N. Djerrkura , A. Hooper , S. Reid , B. Johnson , Z. Skinner
Best Players: J. Mulligan, W. Minson, B. Jolley, M. Hahn, N. Djerrkura, B. Davies
Torquay set the scene for the much anticipated Round 4 Easter Sunday clash against Geelong. The 5000 strong crowd provided a finals like atmosphere which translated on the field, with a fierce contest on display in the first half.
The Cats were quick to jump out of the box, with the likes of former AFL star Troy Selwood assisting in the first 2 goals of the match which left the Seagulls stunned. Williamstown were able to find their rhythm, led by Bulldogs Rookie Mitch Hahn who booted 3 of the Seagulls 4 first quarter goals. Zeph Skinner also provided support up forward with a goal to narrow the margin to 17 points in favour of the Cats at the quarter time break.
Geelong were able to snare the first goal of the second quarter, but Williamstown promptly responded with the next 3 goals to Djerrkura, Hahn and Goodes. Another 3 goals to Reid, Hooper and Jones ensured a six goal to two second quarter in favour of the Gulls and they went into the half-time break with a 7 point lead.
This would never be enough to withstand the determined Cats who were yet to win their first game of the season. The crowd got behind them in the third term to help kick 5 goals to Williamstown's 3. Scores were locked at 90 a piece going into the last quarter.
Bulldogs 3rd year player James Mulligan provided stability down back, with the assistance of Stephen Witkowski in his first senior game for the club as the 23rd player, who showed he will continue to push for senior selection throughout the 2011 season. Williamstown's midfield displayed class and aggression in the final term with skipper Brett Johnson the highest possession getter on the ground with 28 disposals, closely followed by Vice-captain Ben Jolley with 25. The addition of Bulldog ruckman Will Minson ensured these two had first use of the ball, not only at centre clearances, but also around the ground. Two goals in succession to Brodie Moles sealed the game late in the last quarter, and took Williamstown to their fourth win from four games this year.
Coach Peter German praised the Seagulls for their determination and fight in the final quarter, but also asserted more work was needed to combat their slow starts in the first quarter.
The focus now turns to Round 5 when Williamstown will face Coburg at Coburg City Oval, against former Seagulls Development Coach Adam Potter.
THIS WEEK: VFL Round 5
Sunday 1 May | Coburg v Williamstown (Away)
Reserves: 10.00am, Seniors: 1.00pm
Coburg City Oval
It’s an early kick off this week with the game beginning at 1pm to allow Western Bulldogs supporters to catch some of the action before heading across to the MCG. After getting a massive crowd at Torquay last week, we hope to see lots of supporters there again this week.
