After a slow start, the Gulls proved too strong for the depleted Roosters, running out 67-point victors at Box Hill City Oval.
It was the speed of the Seagulls that ruffled the Roosters feathers, breaking the lines and clinically moving the ball inside 50. On a day where plenty of Seagulls impressed, acting captain Ben Jolley shone brightest, leading by example from the opening bounce.
With recent encounters between the Williamstown and North Ballarat showing there is little between the two teams, the Seagulls’ weekend victory made amends for some narrow defeats in recent years.
On aggregate scores only 15 points separated the teams in their two home and away season matches this season. Another close match appeared likely after a cagey opening quarter.
Skill errors from both sides resulted in scrappy, nervous football, with neither team able to gain the momentum.
The Seagulls’ Dane Rampe impressed early on North Ballarat forward Billy Driscoll, spoiling with great effect.
A goal after the siren gave the Seagulls a slender 5-point lead at the first change.
The second quarter saw the game open-up, with Williamstown prepared to back their skills and take the game on.
Will Minson gave the midfield first use of the football, amassing 37 hit-outs along with 35 possessions in a standout individual performance.
Facing his old side, Brett Goodes was influential in the clinches, winning the hard contested footy and providing a strong physical presence all day.
Bulldogs rookie Matthew Panos was the benefited most from the heightened intensity up the ground, scoring three goals for the quarter to help take the Gulls to a 36 point lead late in the quarter.
A poor turnover with only seconds remaining saw the Roosters snatch back a late goal after the siren and reduce the margin back to 30 points at the main change.
The opening 10 minutes of the third quarter were critical as the Roosters looked to force their way back into the game.
Kicking the first goal of the term, the Roosters reduced the margin to 24 points.
With the likes of Lindsay Gilbee, Matthew Cravino and Ben Jolley raising their levels, the Gulls outscored the Roosters six goals to two to take a 46-point lead into the last change.
Williamstown continued their momentum into the final term, with quick ball movement allowing the forwards space to work in. Panos and Zephaniah Skinner both kicked fourth quarter goals as Howard, Davies and Hill provided good supply to the forwards.
With the result beyond doubt at the halfway mark of the final term, the pace of the game wound down with the scoreboard showing an 11-victory to the Gulls at the final siren.
Next Week
Development Squad Preliminary Final
Williamstown v Coburg
Sunday 11th September, 2011
TEAC Oval, Port Melbourne
11:00am
