WONTHAGGI set up a platform for its 101-point win over Warragul by narrowly outscoring the Gulls in the first term, kicking into the wind, then dominating the second quarter with the breeze at its back.

Power coach Jarryd Blair was delighted with his team’s ball use during the second stanza as well as the side’s accurate goalkicking in that period, which netted 7.1, helping Wonthaggi compile a seven-goal lead by the main break.

Jordan Staley was the game’s dominant forward with six majors, competing well one-on-one and capitalising on good delivery from teammates.

However, the winning side found plenty of avenues to score with 12 goalkickers and Blair was pleased to see the workload shared.

Ryan Sparkes was a force in the middle, helping ensure the Power forwards were well served.

“He worked hard through the midfield and he runs all day, and gives himself every chance to play well through his work rate,” Blair said.
Sparkes complemented his midfield work with a couple of goals.

Steven Scott contained the dangerous Jed Lamb who booted six goals for Warragul in the round 2 draw between these sides, keeping him to a solitary major this time.

“He did a good job on him and kept him pretty quiet,” Blair said of Scott’s defensive performance.

Young Power player Noah Anderson impressed with a couple of goals and provided a strong defensive effort when required.

“He does kick goals but he was also able to put pressure on and stick tackles and lock the ball in the forward line,” Blair said.

Nicholas Graham’s positive contribution in the midfield made him Warragul’s best for the day, with teammate Sam Whibley’s competitive ruck performance ensuring he is another Gull who can hold his head high.

Whibley had to work hard against an in form Toma Huther, who had the best of the duel.

The win for Wonthaggi evened the ledger against Warragul, with the sides having now won 16 times apiece against each other, and this year’s round 2 contest the only match between them that ended in a draw.

After Saturday’s comprehensive defeat of the Gulls, Wonthaggi will enter its blockbuster away game against top-of-the-table Leongatha with confidence.