EDFL: Keilor Park breaks through for important win

With leaders missing, several young guns stood tall for Keilor Park in an important victory over Craigieburn which could prove pivotal later in the year.

Keilor Park coach Paul Guicas described it as a “hard slog”.

But it’s exactly what the Devils needed to kick start their Essendon District league season on Saturday.

Guicas’ side prevailed 7.9 (51) to 5.11 (41) over Craigieburn in their Division 1 clash to bounce back from a Good Friday defeat to Hillside.

It was an important showing from the club’s younger brigade with experienced leaders Daylan Kempster and Vincent Schiavello both missing.

Many people have predicted the two clubs to be in the relegation battle this season, meaning this four points could mean much more later in the year.

“We’ve got to give the young guys a lot of credit,” Guicas said.

“We just backed in our players and they overcame the challenge. We’re going to face different challenges this year and it’s all about how we respond to them.

“That last quarter was a great learning experience. It all comes down to belief, one word. It’s cliche, but it’s having the belief to know we belong out there.

“Our mantra is to be competitive in every minute of every game and hate to lose. It was really heart and soul stuff on the weekend.”

Oscar Sasalu was named in the best. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Guicas said there was “no clear standout” in his side’s victory but credited the backline for putting together a strong performance.

Ben Chisholm, Jordan Filakis, Oscar Sasalu, Pearce Wilkinson, Robbie Castello and Tristan Borg were all named among the best.

Meanwhile, Jake Carlisle continued his impressive return to footy with Craigieburn kicking two goals in a best on ground display.

“He was everywhere, an outstanding game,” Guicas said.

“To his credit, he almost won the game off his own boot.”

Despite sitting 1-1 after their opening two games, Guicas said it was incredibly difficult to measure where his side sat in terms of the competition.

“We’ll wait until we play everyone once,” he said.

“I think there’s going to be a lot of surprise results this year across the competition.”

Keilor Park will next face Moonee Valley while Craigieburn hosts the high flying Hillside.