No power shortage in Wonthaggi

WONTHAGGI wasted no time displaying its premiership credentials with a compelling home performance against last year’s runner up Sale, seeing off the determined Magpies by 14 points.

Power looks to have a highly competitive blend of fitness, physicality and skill.

While it was anyone’s game at the final change, with Wonthaggi just 10 points ahead, the home side kept the Magpies at arm’s length for the remainder of the contest although Jarrod Freeman continued to present a strong target for Sale.

He booted a couple of the beaten side’s three final term majors, finishing with a game-high four goals.

However, Wonthaggi found plenty of avenues to goal throughout the day, with Jack Hutchinson’s three majors headlining its nine-player goal kickers list.

His class was on show until the end, with an accurate late snap capping an excellent afternoon from the athletic number 31.

Hutchinson wasn’t just a target in Wonthaggi’s forward arc, often driving Power deep into attack from half forward or beyond and creating opportunities for teammates.

Josh Bates was decisive in Power’s win.

While he booted a couple of goals, his fierce competitiveness and fitness was on display wherever he ventured and his ball use was assured, seeing him named Power’s best.

Big Toma Huther’s mobility was impressive as he not only shouldered much of the ruck work but made a commendable contribution around the ground, winning his share of the footy and providing opportunities for teammates.

It was evident from early in the match that Launceston lad Isaac Chugg, who arrived at Power from Collingwood, will provide the run and assured ball use he was recruited for, helping ensure Wonthaggi’s forwards will see plenty of the Sherrin.

Kyle Reid and Tom Davey were other fiercely competitive players for the victorious Power, with both looking capable of contributing wherever required.

Coach Jarryd Blair had a solid match, including providing an assured presence in defence late in the game to help guarantee Sale couldn’t find a way back into the contest.

Wonthaggi’s sharp start to the season has set up an enthralling contest after Easter against last year’s unbeaten premier, with Leongatha eventually seeing off Traralgon by 37 points in round 1 but strongly challenged for much of the day.

While Power looks a chance to end the Parrots’ winning ways, Wonthaggi coach Blair won’t be underestimating the size of the task at Leongatha Recreation Reserve.