Rovers played Salesian this week – a team that have proven difficult to overcome. This week was another evenly matched contest and the closest of the three matches played between the two clubs this season.
The first half was close and hard, with both teams going goal for goal – the scoreboard reflecting the tight battle being fought on the ground. While Rovers had all the play early, their failure to capitalise in front of goal – missing two scoring opportunities – would influence the final result (SalesianÂ’s winning margin was two goals). The contest at the footy was relentless all over the ground with neither team able to break away. White took some great ?crash through? marks, O?Brien was good reading the play in-tight, Sharpe provided a physical presence and Suleyman was resilient down back.
Salesian scored four wind assisted goals to Rovers one in the third quarter setting-up the biggest margin in a low scoring match. Cannell was particularly good for Rovers after half-time, being prepared to run and provide the passing option.
Instructions going into the final quarter were simple: win the quarter.
Both teams maintained the pressure and intensity into the final quarter providing an entertaining and physical game of footy. Just when it seemed all over for Rovers, Gleeson, Semmel and Westhead kicked three last minute goals to bring the margin to within two goals. In the end though, it wasn?t enough to combat the skill errors and turn-overs that had dogged Rovers all game and proved a fatal combination against a quality opponent.
Goals: Gleeson (4), McDonald, Semmel, White, Westhead.
Best: Cannel, Ross, Sharpe, Suleyman, O?Brien, Semmel.
Scores: Salesian Scorpions def.
2. 1. (13) 2. 2. (14)
4. 3. (25) 4. 3. (25)
8. 6. (54) 5. 4. (34)
9. 9. (63) 8. 6. (54)