Wonthaggi withstands Maffra challenge

By Andrew Paloczi

WONTHAGGI recorded a crucial home win against Maffra as the Power strives to set up a finals berth while awaiting the return of some of its injured key personnel, Ollie Dawson’s goal on the cusp of three-quarter time proving important in the 26-point win.

He found space, marking unopposed near goal shortly after Maffra’s Noah Christy nailed a long shot to bring the Eagles back to just a 10-point deficit.

Wonthaggi was in control at halftime before Maffra mounted a determined comeback, having booted three goals to none before Dawson stepped up, his major no doubt settling Power nerves as the players headed to the three-quarter time huddle.

Power finished strongly in the final stanza, kicking three goals to one.

The winning side shared the goalkicking responsibilities around, Cooper McInnes the only Power player to register multiple majors, booting his third goal not long before the final siren.

Christy, who represented Gippsland Power last year, equalled that goalscoring output and showed moments of class onball but didn’t rate a mention in Maffra’s best.

On a day when both sides had to work hard in defence, the teams each named someone in that part of the ground as their best, Ethan Dickison getting that honour for Wonthaggi, while the experienced Daniel Bedggood did so for Maffra.

Skipper Josh Bates was instrumental in Power’s victory, his hard-at-it approach and skilful ball use setting up many opportunities for his side, Ryan Sparkes another getting in to win the footy and also hitting targets impressively.

Kyle Reid also had a solid game, doing good work in defence and elsewhere.

Jasper Shone, who last season played a couple of games for Gippsland Power at Under 16 level, continues to thrive in the ruck for Wonthaggi, the spring in his step and ability to read the play and use the footy well continue to stand out.

Against Maffra, he was involved in many interesting duels against the more seasoned Andrew McKenzie, who had a knack for taking possession in the ruck contests and driving the Eagles forward.

McKenzie backed up his ruck work with some good efforts around the ground, being named the beaten side’s next best behind Bedggood.

The important victory keeps Wonthaggi in fourth spot on the ladder and Power should build momentum against the winless Drouin, the Hawks hosting this Saturday’s game at Moe’s Ted Summerton Reserve.