Caulfield 12.10-82 def. Old Haileybury 8.3-51

Goals: Penberthy 3, McGlashan 3, B. Price 2, Ford, Whitford, Baker, Rowsthorn
Best: McArdle, McGlashan, Nelson, Eke, Foote, Ford

The U19s finished strongly this week being 31-point victors over Old Haileybury. The win confirmed two things… We can win on our home ground. And with our fourth consecutive win, we now know we are a genuine chance of making the finals. 

All of the boys were excited to play at Glenhuntly Oval for the first time – it finally marked the first use of the home surface all season! The boys certainly sensed the backing of the home crowd, perhaps even providing the seniors with some inspiration for what followed. We got off to a flying start and it initially looked as though it was going to be an onslaught. Even though we were missing some key players due to injuries and again with several players selected in the seniors, the first quarter would have to be one of our best starts all season. The good conditions allowed Caulfield to display the skills we have worked on at training, our effective use of the ball in the first half was a major improvement to last week. It became more obvious as the match went on that risk-taking would eventually pay off. Players such as Francis McArdle, Luke Tamblyn, Ben Price and Alex Ford, who dared to take risks by moving the ball through the corridor, were winners. 

Tim Baker slotted through a great goal early to establish momentum, as another positive for the team in the early stages was the straight kicking at goal. On the other side of the ground, the strength of a bustling and unforgiving backline only let one goal slip prior to the first break, however to Old Haileybury’s credit they were able to lift after half time kicking stints of quick goals. Cam Penberthy was welcomed back into the midfield mix that was without Clay Williams, due to a hamstring injury. Our forwards were marking nearly everything that came to them. Paul “Magee” McGlashan was no doubt wearing the most glue on his "dukes" as he even set about shaking hands with God, leaping over a pack and importantly holding the mark. Unlike Gary Ablett Snr, he went back and nailed the goal. Send in the tape to Almost Footy Legends, Flanas!

After half time Old Haileybury staged a mini-comeback, which saw them nearly steal the lead. We made some poor choices in the third quarter but the boys denied Old Haileybury of hitting the front as Matho’s message at half time was to lift the intensity. The move of Dave Allanson into the ruck allowed Nelson to float around other parts of the ground, while Woody Eke’s inspiration was needed in the third quarter, as was Dylan Tobias’ clever method of trapping the ball in pack situations. James Foote was handy when he moved to Centre half back playing tight on his opponent and getting his hands on the ball. The backmen were clever in forcing Old Haileybury’s forwards to lead wide making them earn every one of their goals, our pressure in the final quarter was not only on the scoreboard. 

The midfielders continued to run their opponents off their feet and deliver to the excellent forward presentation of Will Rowsthorn (one goal), Penberthy (three) and McGlashan (three). Overall, there were some great signs heading into next week’s match where we face Oakleigh. Unfortunately Williams will be sidelined again and Penberthy will be on a holiday, so we need to train well this week. Thanks also to the people who helped with an official role, your assistance was greatly appreciated. Well done boys!

By Justin Kremmer.