SAINTS TAME THE LIONS
By NICK BOYLAN
While several dominant performances featured in RAMS Division 1 action this round, the real story occurred at John McLeod Reserve, with the Saints taking down reigning premiers Deer Park in what was a historical result.
Locked in a tight battle right through the first half, big man David Kovacevic and St Albans took it right up to Deer Park, who were eager to atone for their pre-bye loss to Spotswood.
Unfortunately for Deer Park, the Saints stormed home with 10 goals to six in the second half and recorded an impressive 34-point win.
The last time St Albans defeated Deer Park was Round 10 2012, with former Carlton great Anthony Koutoufides playing a one-off match for the Lions.
2012 was also the last time that Deer Park lost two games in a row, (round 15 and 16), which highlights the impressive dynasty the Lions have had over a long period of time.
St Albans now rise to fourth on the ladder, with Deer Park sliding down to fifth, trailing the Saints on percentage.
In Hoppers Crossing, the Warriors were tested right through their clash with Sunshine, but pulled away to secure a 32-point win, to keep their finals hopes alive.
Jake Allan battled all day for the Kangaroos, while Corey Muscat and Ethan Henley were standouts for Hoppers Crossing in their victory. They’ll look to keep pace with the top five when they travel to Albion next round.
Spotswood cruised to a whopping 176-point win over Point Cook, with Mitchell Coleman booting seven goals and Charlie Nastasi adding five of his own. This percentage-boosting win by the Woodsmen keeps them in second position, as they look to continue their rich vein of form against Caroline Springs next week.
The Lakers will be coming off a disappointing performance, as they were taken down by Werribee Districts to the tune of 78-points. Joshua Mould and Andrew Panayi starred in the win for Werribee, with Panayi leading the way with four goals. Werribee Districts will look to keep pace with the top tier, trailing Spotswood only by percentage, as they take on Sunshine next weekend.
Lastly, Altona showed why they are the ladder leaders at this stage of the season, with a dominant 178-point win over Albion.
Elliot Cavallaro continued his strong year in front of goal, with another seven majors this weekend, and was joined by Mitchell Turnbull who kicked six. Steven Kennedy and Daniel O’Leary both starred for the Vikings, as they look forward to a tough test in St Albans next weekend.
This clash will be the WRFL Match of the Day on 88.9 WYN FM, and should be a fantastic encounter to tune into.