SEAGULLS BACK IN TOP FIVE

Barwon Heads entered its Round 11 game against reigning premiers Modewarre with the daunting scenario of winning and re entering the top 5 or a loss would result in the side being 6 points outside the top five. Selectors made two changes to the side which comprehensively defeated Ocean Grove in the Battle of the Bridge – Brad Harvey returned for his first game since Round 3 and Dizzy Holland returned from an injury suffered in the Representative game from 5 weeks ago. Out of the side went Tim McIntyre with a season ending knee injury and Noah Young was released back to our Colts side.

The game commenced with its usual intensity and Zac Walter was an early casualty having to leave the ground after an early clash. Barwon Heads had early opportunities but were unable to capitalise against a slight breeze and squandered 3 early chances to apply scoreboard pressure. Modewarre then hit the scoreboard with goals to Worpel and Finch to gain the early ascendancy. The Heads were defending well through Sam Evans, Michael Philp, Kizza, J-Mac and Dizzy Holland. Finally the Heads kicked accurately through the returning Brad Harvey and then Herbi snapped a great stoppage goal to hit the lead. On the quarter time siren Modewarre snapped their third goal through Armstrong to lead by 3 points at the first break.

The second quarter begun with the Heads continuing to harass and tackle with great intensity. Dogga was in his element and kicked the opening two goals of the quarter as the Seagulls midfield got on top through Mitch Gaunt, Otto Opperman, Ned Aulsebrook, Braeden Eddy and Dylan O’Leary whilst forwards Strawbs, Benny Stephens, Marto, Charlie Sprague and BJ continued to present and create chances. It was now Modewarre’s turn to squander opportunities as their five behinds for the quarter was wasteful and the Heads established a 17 point lead at half time with goals to Brad Harvey and Herbi.

The third quarter begun with Modewarre continuing to press and they hit the scoreboard through Worpel. The Heads got a lift through Phelpsy and Braedo and also Zedekai Copland and Tim Chapman were prominent. Zac Walter had recovered and his run off the backline was important as Brad Harvey and Herbi kicked their third goals and Phelpsy kicked his first goal as the Heads consolidated their strong position. Unfortunately inaccurate goalkicking was again prevalent as the boys could have created a bigger lead as the team kicked 3.7 for the quarter.

In gloomy conditions, the reigning premiers were not going to lay down and they begun the final quarter with great resolve and kicked the opening two goals. The game was alive but the Heads answered through youngster Charlie Sprague with consecutive goals and then Phelpsy kicked a wonderful snap goal on the run and the team had settled. It was very pleasing that the intensity was maintained throughout the game and our defence led by Sammy and Kizza stood tall all day. It was fitting that the lion hearted Mitch Gaunt snapped a great late goal and his efforts throughout the dap epitomised the great resolve from the 22 players as the team ran out comprehensive 38 point victors.

Barwon Heads 13.17 (95) defeated Modewarre 8.9 (57)

GOALKICKERS : Harvey 3, Herbison 3, Phelps 2, Sprague 2, Dyer 2, Gaunt 1

BEST PLAYERS : Opperman, Sprague, Gaunt, Polley, Philp, Holland

Next week in Round 12 Barwon Heads host Queenscliff and a win will help the Heads consolidate a spot in the top five.

Cheers,

Cuzza