By JARROD POTTER
EASTERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE – round 17
“IT’S A good start boys… but that’s all it is.”
This was a fitting insight and a sadly prophetic assessment by newly-appointed Noble Park coach Stewart Kemperman in his side’s clash on Saturday against Vermont.
Noble Park stormed out and showed significant intent in its first match led by the veteran defender/midfielder – after the club and former coach Jon Knight parted ways earlier this week.
The Bulls took a lead into the first break as the side bucked predictions to lead by 10. Noble Park held onto a slender margin at the main break but could not stop the Vermont gears from turning after the half. Justin Van Unen (8 goals) showed why he’s one of the best players outside of the AFL/VFL ranks to kick his fourth bag of eight for the year.
Noble Park forward mainstay Shayne Allan kicked his way to 300 career goals for the Bulls as he jagged five to emulate the efforts of VFA champion full forward Fred Cook who was watching the match – following a signing session of his biography in the clubrooms. Dan Keely (3 goals) and Nathan Carver (2 goals) showed glimpses of future promise for the Bulls while the heavy lifting in the midfield was achieved by Keely, Sam Monaghan and captain Craig Anderson.
Noble Park finishes its season away at South Croydon on Saturday.
CASEY CARDINIA FOOTBALL LEAGUE – round 17
THE pain of Casey Cardinia is about to abate for Keysborough as it played out its last away fixture in the league.
The Kangaroos hopped all over the Burra in a 97-point smashing, with Tim Werner, Daniel Morland (2 goals) and Michael Downie the best of the Keysborough bunch.
Keysborough hosts Hampton Park on Saturday in its final Casey Cardinia match with the league’s wooden spoon on the line.
VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
Division 2 – round 17
ST JOHN’S slightest of chances to make finals were dashed by premiership favourites Kew in a 52-point loss.
The Bears roared past the JOCs in the first quarter – recording seven goals to one. While a gallant fight back did eventuate – St John’s did not have the cattle to get the job done against the might of the ladder leaders.
Anthony Brannan and Adam Jones kicked two apiece while Manny Jakwot starred through the ruck and up forward. St John’s finishes its season this week against Elsternwick at home.
