Leongatha wins it for Westy against Sale

LEONGATHA did enough to ensure Sean Westaway’s club-record 236th game was celebrated with the four points despite Sale getting on top in the midfield late in the game and cutting the final margin to 25 points.

A defensive masterclass up to three quarter time helped the Parrots to a lead of just over seven goals at that point, having contained Sale to only three majors, but the Magpies hit back with four last quarter maximums to one.

While Leongatha coach Trent McMicking acknowledged the final quarter didn’t quite go to plan, he made it clear the focus was on winning for Westy, praising the tenacious defender and loyal club servant.

“It’s a super day for the footy club; today our theme was sacrifice, loyalty, fearless leader, professional, great to play with and bloody hard to play against, and you’re a superstar,” McMicking said.
Westy responded that the club is a special place, expressing his appreciation to all those who contribute and provide support.

“I look forward to my brother-in-law finally buying me a beer tonight,” Westaway quipped after thanking family for their support.

A third quarter chase and free-kick-winning tackle on Sale’s Jarrod Freeman was among the record breaker’s highlights in a typically determined performance, with Westaway having to shoulder extra responsibility in the absence of intercept marking specialist Cade Maskell.

Westy enjoyed good support in defence, with the Parrots not conceding a goal throughout the second and third terms.

Young Jackson Harry shone on the day with his forward line presence, being named Leongatha’s best, while Tom Marriott again excelled in the midfield for most of the contest and Travis Nash was instrumental down back.

Jarrod Stewart played his first Senior game in ages, slotting into the Parrots’ side efficiently as a backup ruckman, and forward, with Jenson Garnham Leongatha’s top goal kicker with three.

Shannen Lange and Hudson Holmes delivered fine performances in the midfield for Sale.

McMicking gave credit to the Magpies for their ability to eventually get on top in the midfield, thankful the Parrots set up the win with a commanding second term.

“We got our ball movement going and were able to open up the ground on offence, and shut it down defensively,” he said of that second stanza in which Leongatha booted three goals to none.

The Parrots aim to further their momentum when they host fifth-placed Bairnsdale but the Redlegs arrive full of confidence after dispatching Wonthaggi.