By Jackson Russell
Wallan shocked Romsey by 33 points in atrocious conditions at Romsey Park to end the Redbacks’ eight-game winning streak.
The Magpies’ win allowed them to grab a top-four spot on the Riddell District Football Netball League senior ladder.
Torrential rain and a water-logged ground put a dampner on what was a much-anticipated clash between two of the competition’s hottest teams.
Just one behind was scored in the first term as both sides struggled to come to grips with the conditions – and the ball.
Wallan assistant coach Spencer Mathieson said he knew the Redbacks would provide a huge test for the Magpies.
“I thought we adapted a bit quicker to the conditions than Romsey, we kept them scoreless with the breeze in the first term which help set up our win,” he said.
The Magpies’ second quarter was the key to their win. They were able to hold Romsey to a single behind and controlled the football to kick 3.7 (25) and lead by as many at half-time.
Romsey kept Wallan scoreless in the third term but was only able to add one major to their tally in the boggy conditions.
With goals coming at a premium, Wallan added three more to their total in the final term to hold off the ladder leaders for the win.
“Both sides need to be commended for their efforts. They really continued to have a crack all game,” Mathieson said.
“Nathan Fowler was a standout but we had plenty of lads contribute to the win. You need plenty good players when you beat a good side.”
Romsey coach Corey O’Sullivan said it wasn’t a fun day for anyone, players and supporters alike.
“Wallan just played a smarter game of football. They outworked us over the course of the day but were smarter in the conditions,” he said.
“I think after every game we continue to improve our football. Clearly that wasn’t the case this week as we didn’t improve but we don’t think there’s any need for drastic change.
“They probably had an ounce of luck in the game but they made that luck because they played harder and smarter. Any luck they did get was deserved because they worked harder for it.”
Wallan rose to fourth on the ladder with the win, behind Riddell and above Rupertswood and Macedon on percentage. The Magpies take on Rockbank at home this week.
Romsey remain at the top of the ladder, 100 percentage points clear of Diggers Rest, and will enjoy a bye next week.
Romsey 2.3 (15) def by Wallan 6.12 (48)
ROMSEY
Goals: R. Stott, J. Naylor.
Best: J. O’Sullivan, M. Burkett, A. Storey, R. Wood, C. Whelan, A. Paterson
WALLAN
Goals: M. Perri 3, B. Schraven, S. Morris, C. Grindlay.
Best: N. Fowler, J. Bonello, A. Saladino, C. Grindlay, M. Tang, B. Cox
