VIKINGS REGAIN TOP SPOT
By NICK BOYLAN
This week’s action in RAMS Division 1 was highlighted by a thrilling first versus second clash, with Altona returning to the top of the ladder with a one-point win over Spotswood.
After a closely matched first term, the Vikings were able to break the low-scoring affair open, kicking five goals to zero to lead by 23 points at half-time.
For the second half, Altona only could register three behinds, as Spotswood closed the gap. Faced with a ten-point deficit at three-quarter time, the Woodsmen continued to push for victory, but Altona just held on for the slimmest of wins.
Sean Tighe and Steve Kennedy were excellent for the victors, while Harley Walshe was best afield for Spotswood. Altona will hope to keep top spot next weekend when they travel to Deer Park, while Spotswood have their own opportunity for first position against Hoppers Crossing.
The Warriors will be hard to stop, after they defeated Werribee Districts 26-points in an impressive performance. After a slow start, Hoppers Crossing and Brandon Houlihan took over from the second term, scoring six goals to one.
Despite a Tigers fightback in the last quarter, the Hoppers Crossing lead was too much to overcome. Werribee Districts will hope to turn things around next weekend, as they host St Albans in what promises to be another exciting clash for the round.
The Saints got back on the winners’ list this week, defeating Caroline Springs by 21-points. Inaccuracy was the only thing in the way of a larger win for St Albans, as they finished with a wasteful 7.19. Jarrod Tuppen and Jadyn Trowsdale were brilliant for the Saints, who now sit 5th, trailing Werribee Districts by percentage.
Caroline Springs will look for improved form when they take on Sunshine next weekend, who are fresh off a 44-point win over Point Cook. Ben Micinney dominated for the Kangaroos with seven goals, helping to notch their third win for the year.
Point Cook will hope a return to winning form arrives next week, when they take on Albion, who went down to Deer Park this week by 161-points.
RAMS Division 1 goal kicking leader Jase Perkins added to his 2019 haul, bagging 12 goals against the Cats, and helping the Lions secure a dominant win.
This leaves the reigning premiers in 3rd position, trailing Spotswood by percentage, and ready for a key clash against ladder-leaders Altona.