Phillip Island overwhelms Inverloch in thrilling upset

IN a thrilling and unexpected turn of events, Phillip Island emerged victorious over last year’s premiers Inverloch with a decisive 30-point win. 

The underdogs came out blazing in the grand final rematch, setting the tone of the match right from the first quarter. 

Phillip Island’s early dominance was marked by an impressive offensive display, kicking the first five goals of the game to put Inverloch on the back foot.

Inverloch wasn’t ready to run such a gauntlet early but adapted to add four of its own goals.

However, Phillip Island continued to outhunt the Sea Eagles and had one more goal left in them before the quarter was out. 

Kai McKenzie was instrumental in Phillip Island’s success, providing relentless dash and drive from the half-back line. 

His ability to intercept and transition the ball quickly turned defence into attack, repeatedly putting Inverloch under pressure and contributing significantly to the early goal spree.

By the end of the first quarter, Phillip Island had established a strong lead, and despite Inverloch’s efforts to claw back into the game, it was unable to match the intensity and efficiency of its opponents. 
Phillip Island’s cohesive team play, and tactical prowess kept it ahead.

After a sluggish game in the previous week, Phillip Island looked a different team with a renewed hunger.

The second quarter was a tight contest, with Inverloch-Kongwak struggling to take convert its opportunities.

Phillip Island was smashing the Sea Eagles in the clearances, and Inverloch-Kongwak worked hard to even things up in the middle.  

With Aaron Harris down back hitting his strides and young guns Cooper Walton and Zac Walker growing in confidence the Island was looking strong in all facets of their game.

Billy and Jack Taylor combined for nine goals with senior players Hayden Bruce, Jaymie Youle combining well though the middle.

The third quarter was an arm wrestle with the defence strengthening on both sides.

Luke Johnson was a force to be reckoned with down the back, with Xavier Hughes also giving a strong performance. 

Marcus Toussaint played a solid game in the ruck, giving the Island’s Daniel Bourke a run.

Jordan Bertacco came out of the U18s to play another game for the Seniors and held his own on the wing. 

Inverloch-Kongwak focused on putting pressure on the stoppages and getting the game back on its terms.

However, things took a turn when Will Hams was stretchered off the ground with an elbow injury.

The game was paused for around 15 minutes, waiting for the arrival of an ambulance.

Sea Eagle supporters feared a break, but it has been reported Hams received a better result and has dislocated his elbow. 

The game reconvened for a jam-packed final quarter, as both teams hit the scoreboard, giving it all they had.

Inverloch-Kongwak came within two kicks of the Island, but the Bulldogs doubled down and fought back.

The Sea Eagles missed an opportunity in front of goal, allowing Phillip Island to send the Sherrin back into its forward line for another goal. 

As the final siren sounded, Phillip Island celebrated a well-earned 30-point victory, signalling their potential to challenge for the top spots this season. 

The final score highlighted not just their offensive capabilities but also their defensive strength. 

This win will undoubtedly boost Phillip Island’s confidence and position them as a formidable contender in the league.

Phillip Island will challenge Dalyston at Dalyston this Saturday.

Inverloch-Kongwak will contend with Tooradin-Dalmore, which will prove to be an important match.