Dragons fight off gallant Western Jets outfit
The Sandringham Dragons have fought off a gallant Western Jets outfit to run home 30 points winners in turbulent conditions at Frankston Oval on Saturday.
A six-goal-to-one final quarter secured Sandringham’s fifth win a row and consolidated fourth spot, moving one game clear of fifth-place Dandenong Stingrays.
The Jets, who came into the match having won only three matches from 13 outings, tested the Dragons resilience and never-say-die attitude taking a 5-point lead into the final quarter.
Three last quarter goals from Sportsmart’s best on ground player Will Walker led the Dragons to a triumphant victory.
Fresh off his invite to the NAB AFL Draft Combine, Walker played with a high level of confidence, amassing 30 disposals, nine clearances and five marks to consolidate a well-rounded display.
Bottom-ager Bailey Smith looked at home with a move into the midfield gathering a game-high 44 disposals, 13 inside 50s, 10 clearances and four rebound 50s. Smith, a product of Xavier College, is eligible for the 2018 draft.
Small forward Aaron Trusler was awarded the Fin-Fitness coaches award after a return to form saw him kick four goals, three of which were in the second quarter to put Sandringham in front.
Sandringham will now face Eastern Ranges (7-7) on Sunday at Box Hill City Oval from 2pm.
|
|
Q1 |
Q2 |
Q3 |
Q4 |
|
Sandringham Dragons |
2.2-14 |
7.4-46 |
7.6-48 |
13.11-89 |
|
Western Jets |
3.2-20 |
5.3-33 |
8.5-53 |
9.5-59 |
SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS
Goal Kickers: A. Trusler 4, W. Walker 3, J. Hale 2, H. Mclean, J. Gorman, J. Bakes, R. Macdermid
Best Players: W. Walker, A. Trusler, B. Smith, Q. Montanaro, H. Mclean, G. Nagle
WESTERN JETS
Goal Kickers: B. Graham 2, J. Noonan, S. Syme, B. Khamis, L. Smart, S. Radovanovic, J. Hazik, O. Manton
Best Players: Z. Butters, T. Xerri, S. Radovanovic, C. Thar, J. Mould, X. O''Halloran