ST. JOSEPH’S has ended Newtown & Chilwell’s undefeated start to the GFNL season with a hard-fought 11-point win at Drew Oval on Sunday, in what may be an early season finals preview.The Joey’s led throughout the game but had to hold off a fast-finishing Eagles side to walk away winners 10.9 (69) to 7.16 (58).
The win sees St. Joseph’s draw level on points with Newtown, with both sides boasting impressive 7-1 records.
Paddy De Grandi was damaging up forward in a best-on-ground display, booting a match-high four goals, while skipper Alex Hickey was at his instrumental best.
Joey’s Coach Ron Watt said it was a proud day for the entire club, which was celebrating a five-year premiership reunion, as well as naming its best side of the last 50 years.
“I gave (the players) a big pat on the back obviously,” he said.
“It was a hard-fought win and there was a lot of emotion in the room.
“There were a lot of people who were there for the naming of the team of the last 50 years and also some guys here from the five-year premiership reunion.
“To be able to play in a spirited manner in the way we did with all those people here was really important.”
The Towners came home strong in the final term after trailing by 33-points at thee-quarter-time, booting three goals to none in the last quarter, with inaccuracy costing the ladder leaders in the end.
Watt said it took a contribution from all his players to not only start well but also hold off the Eagles in the late stages.
“I’m really proud of how the players went about things today.
“It will sit really highly with premierships and a few other memorable games.
“There was such an atmosphere about the place today and there was plenty of people here.
“It was a hard contest.
“Anyone who came to watch today would not have walked away disappointed I’m sure.”
Joey’s will be away to Grovedale for their Round 9 clash this weekend, while Newtown will travel to Central Reserve for another big test against Colac.
Image: Sports Media Image – Marcel Berens