The Hampton Rovers were on the road for the second consecutive week with a trip to Melbourne University to take on the Blacks. It was close all day but it was the home side who finished stronger running out 24 point winners.
The Rovers started strong but missed an opportunity from a set shot to kick the opening goal. Uni Blacks went on to kick three goals for the opening term to the Rovers two. The Rovers kicked consecutive goals in the second term and at one stage held a three goal lead. However the home side finished strong and led by two goals at the main interval.
It was an even third term with both sides kicking four goals and at three quarter time, it was the Uni Blacks holding a 10 point lead.
It was a tense opening to the fourth quarter and a bit of niggle had crept into the game. The home side kicked a goal and were then immediately gifted another set shot and resulting goal in the goal square. This gave them confidence but the Rovers didn?t give up. While they gave it their all and did manage three goals, it was the Uni Blacks who with five goals took away the four points, winning the game by four goals.
Best players for the Rovers included Jay Ting, Leigh Fletcher, Mark Devereaux while Ryan Semmel was best on the scoreboard with four goals.
The Rovers look forward to returning to Boss James Reserve this coming Saturday to take on Old Trinity. Five of the remaining eight game of the 2009 season are at home which is no doubt an advantage for the Rovers who are keen to finish the season on a positive note.
HAMPTON ROVERS 2.3 6.5 10.8 13.11 (89)
UNIVERSITY BLACKS 3.2 8.4 12.6 17.11 (113)
Goals: R. Semmel 4, M. Lawrence 2, L. Dallas 2, M. Devereaux, R. White, B. Theodore, R. Alexander, L. De Boer.
Best: J. Ting, L. Fletcher, M. Devereaux, L. De Boer, R. Semmel, T. Curry.
The Reserves were also defeated by the Blacks with Jesse Donald best for the Rovers. The Thirds put in a good performance against Old Geelong at Como Park but were defeated. Jason Laver was best for the Rovers and kicked five goals.
The Under 19s took on Prahran at Boss James Reserve and had a comfortable 74 point victory. Jordan Goss dominated for the Rovers kicking eight goals while Zeke Lewis kicked four. Click Here for the full U19 report.
