Frank Seal
A highly anticipated weekend at Olinda saw the Bloods host top-of-the-ladder Narre Warren, and the women face their biggest challenge yet against Healesville. A win against Narre Warren would have seen the Bloods well established in the top four at four to two. What better reason to start strongly and put it to the Magpies.
Both teams started well. Narre nailed the first goal, but Olinda’s pressure was a match for the Magpies. Coach Brendan Donovan predicted a handful of goals from within 15 metres, and as if on cue Lachy Taylor and Mat Rosier reeled off three majors from snaps out of the ruck and the ball spilling from packs. A contested mark and conversion to Taylor saw Olinda two points behind an accurate Narre Warren (30-28) at the quarter time break. The second quarter saw closer, contested footy with both teams applying intense pressure. For Olinda, major scores were added by Currie, Keegan, and Millwood but the Magpies were simply more accurate in front of goal. At the main break both teams had 16 scoring shots, yet Narre had extended their lead to 20 points.
Coach Donovan applauded the effort from his team, and the message was – if the margin is within three goals at the final break – be prepared for anything. Unfortunately for Olinda, the Magpies displayed their class in the second half, overwhelming the Bloods at times with silky ball use and strong hands in the air. Ruckmen Sean Atkinson and Josh Wallis were bringing the energy out of the middle, marking strongly, and gaining territory off the boot. Tyler Belloni showed strong intent all day, willing himself to numerous contests and clearing the ball under pressure. However, by three quarter time Narre were out to a 39-point lead.
In the final quarter the Magpies continued to apply pressure and move the ball into their forward line, keeping the Olinda defenders busy. A late goal to young debutant Isaac Tonkin was some consolation which saw every Olinda jumper get around the first gamer. But this second half display of class from the Magpies saw the margin extend further. The final score (Narre Warren 21-15-141 d Olinda 10-17-77) reflected the Magpie dominance after a spirited first half from the Bloods.
