The Eagles hosted Panton Hill at home on Saturday with an impressive result. Clearly the Eagles were happy to return to the showgrounds after a couple of weeks away.
The day gave Mitch Taplin a memorable 200th game for the Eagles. From the outset the Eagles showed that they meant business with 13 points on the board in the first 10 minutes. Panton Hill replied with a goal but for the rest of the opening quarter is was all Whittlesea.
Accurate kicking saw the Eagles close the quarter with five goals on the scoreboard to Panton Hill’s two behinds.
The second quarter really lit up with Panton Hill staging an impressive comeback However, despite Panton Hill’s efforts, the Eagles managed to maintain their lead as the teams headed into halftime.
The first half of the game showcased intense action, with both teams displaying their skill and determination on the field. The Eagles came out strong in the second half, establishing a comfortable lead with their strategic plays and solid defence.
With their backs against the wall, Panton Hill rallied their forces, showcasing a remarkable display of resilience and teamwork. Their efforts paid off as they narrowed the gap, putting pressure on the Eagles and energizing their supporters.
Despite Panton Hill’s impressive comeback, the Eagles managed to weather the storm, holding on to their lead as final siren blew.
The final scoreboard highlighted the Eagles determination to maintain their advantage with a comfortable win 12.9 (81) to Panton Hill 6.3 (39).
Goals came from Riley Powell five, Lucas Hobbs two, and Xavier Dimasi, Max Dyson, Matt Langford, Jack Morley, and Lachlan Shinn-mahony one goal each.
Best on ground were Taidhg Bland, Riley Powell, Lucas Hobbs, Matthew Atta, Riley Carter, and Xavier Dimasi.
The reserves displayed similar prowess with their 19.16 (130) to 1.4 (10) result. Harry Beattie led the goal kicking with five Jeremy Gorski contributed three. Christian Prestopino, Billy Goodwin, and Henry Bland booted two each and Brent Toll, Stephen Dempsey, Jack Taylor, and Liam Tyrell contributed one each.
Best for the reserves were Henry Bland, Kane Johnson, Harry Beattie, Christian Prestopino, Scott McAuliffe, and Jack Taylor.
Next week the Eagles travel south to Mill Park Lakes to take on South Morang.