Hawks fall against Bloods in blustery conditions

Toby Versteegan (number 47) of Monbulk defending in the Reserves. PICTURE: ARMIN RICHTER

Seniors

Olinda handled the blustery conditions far better than the Hawks and established a handy break with the wind at the first change. Hopes of reigning in the Bloods in the second term fell apart as Olinda managed six goals against the stiff breeze. Monbulk’s usual good ball control fell apart as marks were dropped, disposals missed their target and Olinda hurt them on the rebound. The end result was a disappointing 82 point loss.

Olinda-Ferny Creek 19.12.126 def Monbulk 6.8.44

Best: Lachlan Sheppard, Max Thornton, Mackay Bateson, Glenn Strachan, Ryan Gilbert, Joel Wensley

Goals: Ziggy Hatherley 2, Ethan Greenall 1, Glenn Strachan 1, Lachlan Shepperd 1, Max Thornton 1

Reserves

Fifth placed Monbulk faced Olinda, who occupied third spot, in a vital clash for both sides. With a more even spread of talent across the field, Monbulk was in control for most of the day but were never able to fully shake off their tenacious opponents. In the end the Hawks triumphed by 13 points but could have won by more but for some missed chances.

Olinda-Ferny Creek 5.2.32 def by Monbulk 6.9.45

Best: Cameron Griffiths, Jesse Dodd, Josh Rak, Lachlan Hancock-Wolfe, Hamish Emmett, Clayton Spooner

Goals: Jesse Dodd 2, Matthew James 1, Nick Selleck 1, Brandon Shambrooke 1, Michael Langworthy 1

Under 19s

The Unders travelled to Officer in the morning which had a gale blowing towards the Princes Highway end. Fourth placed Monbulk had 16 players at their disposal while the Kangaroos, who were sitting in second, had the luxury of 22. Knowing they were going to face stiff opposition, the Hawks took the challenge front on, and declined an offer of opposition players to bolster their side. Despite the difficult conditions it was an entertaining game where the Hawks did themselves proud despite the loss.

Officer 5.10.40 def Monbulk 3.2.20

Best: Coby Passingham, William Henderson, Noah Rutherford, Riley Finlay, Lachlan Smith, Jai Farmer

Goals: Lachlan Smith 2, Timothy Rickard 1

Women’s

The Monbulk Women’s team have faced an uphill battle all season but are starting to gel as a team and produce some encouraging results. The first meeting between these teams resulted in Monbulk having to forfeit while the second encounter produced a 136-0 scoreline. This time the Hawks were able to continually harass their opponents and force the ball forward to create scoring chances. The result was their highest score for the year in a competitive match.

Olinda-Ferny Creek 9.10.64 def Monbulk 3.3.21

Best: Josie Ford, Maddison Dodd, Indy Bakker, Shaye McLean, Genna Seamer, Kathryn Gow

Goals: Jessica Willoughby 1, Indy Bakker 1, Laura Gillard 1