EDFL: Craigieburn overcomes Moonee Valley in crunch relegation clash

Craigieburn picked up its second victory of the season but it was arguably the club’s biggest win since its 2019 premiership. Here’s what it meant.

It might just be Craigieburn’s biggest win since the 2019 premiership.

That’s how important the four points were for the Eagles in a 13.10 (88) to 6.9 (45) win over Moonee Valley on Saturday.

The win left Craigieburn two games clear of Sunbury Kangaroos, who sit at the bottom of the ladder, and one ahead of the Fog — they also have a greater percentage than both sides.

And the meaning behind the result wasn’t lost on first-year coach Justin Sherman in the contest of the EDFL Division 1 season.

“We just had to find a way to win,” he said of the result’s importance.

“We had focused on it during the week because we didn’t want to shy away from the challenge that was ahead of us.

“Our second half was really impressive, our ability to hold onto the footy was much better and it helped us to run out the game. We wanted to play with more tempo because we felt we had been fading away in some game.

“The next step for us to find more ways to be consistent. We can use the win as a springboard for the rest of the season.”

Sam Rexhepi, who previously played at Wallan, is enjoying a strong season for Craigieburn. Picture: Mark Dadswell

When it mattered most, Craigieburn’s big names came to the floor including Sam Rexhepi.

He booted four goals for the second straight week to take his season tally to 28 from nine games.

While his on-field performances have been consistent, Sherman said he had been much more impressed with his off-field influence on a young Eagles playing group.

“He’s a real professional,” Sherman said.

“For a guy who is in his mid-30s, he still moves like he’s 25. He and Jake Carlisle having been worked really closely with the forwards and you can just see the improvement those younger guys have shown already.

“He’s been terrific for us. He’s a fantastic bloke and someone we love having around the club.”

Rhys Fynch was named best on ground for the Eagles. Picture: Hamish Blair

Brodie White is continuing to shine. Picture: Hamish Blair

Rhys Fynch produced arguably his best performance of the season in a defensive wing role while Brodie White continued his sensational form of the last month for Craigieburn.

Brodie Griffiths, Brent Gordon, Corey Middleton and Jordan Lobosco were also named in the best for the Eagles.

“Rhys has really elevated his game this year,” Sherman said.

“He holds his width really well on the wing and is able to get back and help our back six as well.

“The whole club is up and about when White is playing well. He’s a real x-factor for us and his last few weeks have been sensational.”

Matt Hadeed was handed his senior debut on Saturday playing a key role on Moonee Valley star Ned Wilson limiting his influence on the game according to Sherman.

“His last three games in the twos were super so he deserved the opportunity and did a fantastic job for us,” he said.

Craigieburn will take on West Coburg following the bye.