STORM SCORE FIRST WIN OF 2018
By RHYS WOOSNAM
The massive contest between first and second of the ladder ended before half-time as the game was called off due to illness.
The Yarraville-Seddon and Point Cook game, which would have well and truly signally the premiership favourite, ultimately did not go ahead, with both teams looking to Round 5 and a second chance to stamp their name on the league.
The Eagles will play the Newport Power in a top-four clash, while Point Cook will have to fight to keep their second spot on the ladder in a showdown with North Footscray.
Back on the playing field, the other three games of Round 4 for 2018 saw some tight clashes and even an upset which threw the wooden spoon contest wide open.
The Footscray derby certainly didn’t disappoint, with both sides displaying a brutal, contested style and the scoreboard reflecting that with a close margin for the majority of the day.
North Footscray eventually prevailed by 29-points, however their cross suburb rivals kept them honest, even having a first-quarter lead. North’s inaccuracy in front of goal ultimately kept the Roosters in the game, as they kicked a shocking 11 goals and 23 behinds.
The Devils were spearheaded by a tremendous six-goal effort from Jason Butty, who took his tally to 16 majors for the season and a three goal lead for the competition goal kicking. On the other side, Ange Messina kicked two goals and Josh Barker was best on for the Roosters.
Newport Power was able to secure a temporary spot in the top four this week, as they bested Albanvale by 39-points in a consistent performance across the four quarters. After holding just a one point lead at the first break, the Power kicked away, outscoring Albanvale by 11 goals to five afterwards. Youssef El Hawli continued his strong form, kicking five for the victors, while Jarryd Formosa booted two for the Cobras. Albanvale now have a very winnable match in Round 5 as they tackle Manor Lakes.
Manor Lakes themselves will be full of confidence after scoring their first win of the season against Parkside at Howqua Reserve on Saturday. The Storm fought hard all day, coming from a first quarter deficit to lead at three-quarter-time, before holding on in the last for a tremendous victory which will kick start their 2018 season.
Picture: MANOR LAKES FOOTBALL CLUB