Telstra Store West Lakes Reserves Match Report – Qualifying Final

Eagles 8.10 (58) def by Sturt 11.9 (75)
Goal Scorers: Morgan 3, Morris 2, Pickett, J Gaffney, Cook
Best Players: Nason, Morgan, J Gaffney, Mcpherson, Heinjus

Sturt have been a really tough competitor this year with 2 of our 3 games decided by less than a kick. We knew as a side that we had to come with the right intent to take the game on if we were going to give ourselves a chance of winning.

We started off with some real momentum to get our hands on the ball on the ground but were unable to quell the influence of Sturt’s bigger guys in the air. In saying that we were able to have 8 scoring shots to 2 for the quarter but didn’t quite convert our chances to go in front 3-5 to 2-0 at quarter.

The second quarter was a real dour battle with both sides having their chances but it was our ability to stay strong at the contest and even up the air which gave us a handy 8 point half time lead.

More of the same was needed in the third quarter and at the 10 minute mark we jumped out to a 20 point lead. Finals is an all the time thing and Sturt kicked into gear to dominate the contest for the next 15 minutes as we struggled to win enough ball and Sturt kicked 7 unanswered goals to take a 16 point lead into 3 quarter time.

We battled strongly in the last quarter but were unable to bridge the gap as Sturt run out 17 point victors.

We now have Central at Richmond oval this Saturday and nothing short of concentration and appetite to compete for 4 full quarters will be required.

Vinnie Rugolo
Head Coach