Mitch Dyer
Round 8 of the VAFA football delivered thrilling encounters and notable performances across the division. The top-ranked Cobras extended their winning streak, while Hawthorn and Elsternwick showcased their strength and determination. Let’s dive into the action and preview the upcoming Round 9 clashes.
In a captivating match, Wattle Park overcame a halftime deficit to triumph over Richmond Central by 17 points. Richmond started strongly, leading by 3 points at the break, but Wattle Park’s third-quarter surge turned the tide in their favor.
Kieren Jenkins’ three-goal contribution proved vital in their comeback win. This victory secures Wattle Park’s spot in the top four, intensifying the race for the final spots in the higher echelons of the ladder.
When Canterbury entered enemy territory, it was Power House who fought valiantly against the ladder-leading Canterbury Cobras in the first half, trailing by just four points at halftime.
However, the Cobras unleashed their power in the second half, limiting Power House to a mere two goals while scoring nine of their own. Tom Lowden’s five-goal haul highlighted the Cobras’ offensive prowess, while Brodie Tohara was instrumental for Power House, earning himself the best player on the ground for the losing side, the 17 year old will take confidence in his performance in just his third game of senior footy. Canterbury’s commanding 47-point win solidifies their position at the top of the table.
The next game of the round was Elsternwick taking on La Trobe, with Elsternwick displaying their superiority against La Trobe University, recording a resounding 70-point victory. Despite a competitive first quarter, Elsternwick’s scoring prowess and the impressive performances of Blake Pantas and Eli Holland-Dean propelled them to a commanding lead.
The win boosts their percentage and places them just one game outside the top four. With a clash against Richmond Central in Round 9, Elsternwick aims to remain in contention for back-to-back finals campaigns.
The final game of the round saw Swinburne face their biggest test yet taking on one of the league’s best, Hawthorn. In a match where Swinburne showcased their rejuvenated belief, Hawthorn’s defensive dominance and cohesive gameplay proved too much to handle.
Hawthorn led from start to finish, sealing a 66-point victory. Charlie Boots and Justin Raiti were instrumental in Hawthorn’s triumph, leading their team with impressive performances.
Swinburne fought gallantly throughout the game, with Aaron Colven, Aiden Vesty, and Mackena Huf shining for the university side.
Round 9 presents an enticing clash between the Cobras and Hawthorn, two powerhouse teams vying for divisional supremacy. This highly anticipated encounter promises to be the game of the year thus far, with both sides showcasing exceptional form.
Meanwhile, Wattle Park and Elsternwick continue their battle for the fourth position in the ladder. They face Power House and Richmond Central, respectively, who, despite their lower rankings, pose a threat of causing upsets after the midseason break.
Additionally, La Trobe and Swinburne will engage in a crucial contest as they strive to secure their second win and narrow the gap with Richmond Central, who currently sit one win ahead of both teams.
As we approach the midseason break, Round 9 sets the stage for captivating matchups that will shape the division’s landscape moving forward. The competition is fierce, and teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
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