Blacks start season in style as Haileybury make early statement

Eliza Wright

Despite a dreary day in Melbourne making for some slippery hands, the stage was set for a highly anticipated opening round. The Uni blacks went to work to retain their crown in a convincing win against AJAX, while Haileybury proved themselves as a force to be reckoned with in their triumph over De La. Down at Fearon Reserve, CY’s pace and poise were too much in the end for the panthers. Lastly, The Sharks got the better of Fitzroy showing confidence and resolve, taking home a 5-point victory.

The powerhouse that is the Uni Blacks started their season with an impressive victory over AJAX on their home turf. This one-sided affair saw the Blackers lead at every change. 9 players chimed in with goals and Nick Hey led the team with 3. For Josh Steadman, it was business as usual on Melbourne University Oval, working tirelessly in the middle. A notable performance from AJAX’s Ben Schauder who kicked 2 on debut. He was one of 5 players donning the red, white, and black for the first time in the senior side- a group to keep an eye on as the season progresses. The Uni Blacks will look to generate a streak in their next game against De La as AJAX hope to bounce back against the Roys in round 2.

A little bit of push and shove at Princes Park saw Haileybury firmly stamp their mark on this season with De La Salle unable to get the redemption they desired. Struggling to get a firm grip on the game, De La conceded a 48-point loss to The Bloods. A fantastic effort from Jack Lonie and Sam Algeri kicking 4 and 3 respectively, as well as assertive run and carry from Brodie Steele in his 100^th game. Haileybury will have to shift this momentum onto the training track as they enter a round 2 bye and Easter break, hoping for a similar result against Old Carey in two weeks. For De La, it’s back to the drawing board as they prepare for a tough opponent in Uni Blacks.

The two youngsters of Premier B went head-to-head in round 1. This seesawing encounter had the lead change at each break. Despite Old Carey’s best efforts, it was Williamstown that took home the chocolates. With 11 different goal kickers, it is clear CY’s team-first mentality is paying dividends. A stellar effort from leader Tom Johnstone has started the season off on the front foot. In the coming round, Williamstown will take on the fresh legged St Bedes/Mentone, whose eyes would have been closely watching this knockout. Old Carey will hit the road again in round 2, taking on Beaumaris at Banksia Reserve.

The stage was set at Brunswick Street Oval for the fight between The Sharks and The Roys. The strength of Beaumaris saw them prevail over Fitzroy, whose attempt to steal the win in the last quarter fell short. The endurance of Joel Di Natale and accuracy from Matthew Petering worked harmoniously for Beauy, helping them secure the four points. It was smiles all round for The Sharks as they celebrated the first senior game for key defensive player Liam Hayes and 100 for the hardworking James Taylor. The Roys will hope to replicate the pressure they created in the final term, in their next battle against AJAX, meanwhile The Sharks hope to swim home with another win against The Panthers.