WALLAN was dominant from start to finish in its most complete performance of the Riddell Football Netball League season, downing the hapless Western Rams by 209 points on Saturday.
The Magpies looked untroubled on the road, controlling the game from the opening bounce in the 32.25 (217) to 1.2 (8) victory.
Corey Grindlay finished without a blemish to his name, kicking eight straight goals – his third eight-goal haul of the season – to move into second place on the league goal-kicking tally with 47 for the season, six behind teammate Matt Perri, 53.
Sean Morris was prolific both on ball and up forward, slotting six goals of his own, while Steven Boyall, Ricky Schraven and Rhys Frost accumulated plenty of possessions.
Kaiden Broomfield relished his senior debut with three goals, while star midfielder Jesse Davies returned from injury to play his second game of the season.
Wallan assistant coach Spencer Mathieson praised the team’s unrelenting effort.
“It was a pretty good four-quarter performance,” he said.
“We had a few youngsters in the side and they did alright, which was good. I don’t think we had any injuries from the game so we were able to rest a few at the end.
“We had 12 goal kickers, which is more than half the side, so it was good to have an even spread. There was a lot of unselfish footy, with players trying to hit up teammates in a better spot, which was great to see.”
Mathieson said the Magpies would enjoy a week of rest with a round 14 bye before returning to take on Lancefield on July 23.
“We’ve got the week off and three of the last four games at home, so we’re looking forward to that,” he said.
“We want to get some momentum going into the last part of the season and hopefully finals.”
Lancefield was outgunned by Melton Centrals at the weekend, losing 5.6 (36) to 16.13 (109).
While defenders Jack Dalgleish and Lukas Fellows and wingman Michael Conlon performed admirably alongside half forward Stefan De Riva and onballer Harrison Taylor, each of whom kicked a goal, the Tigers could not keep pace with the Blues after quarter time.
Lancefield will face an even bigger challenge against top side Diggers Rest on the road this week, while Romsey returns from a bye to play Macedon.
Netball
Wallan shored up its place in the Riddell league’s A Grade top five with a 48-26 hiding of the Western Rams.
The Magpies now sit second on the ladder with nine wins, two losses and a draw.
Lancefield gave a good account of itself but was unable to defeat Melton Centrals, losing 37-44.
The Tigers will host the Rams on Saturday, while winless Romsey will be tested by Macedon.
