Glenroy records thrilling draw with Coburg Districts

Glenroy knows it won’t play finals in 2024 but coach Dean Young is in intent on a strong finish to the season. He reveals what he wants to see after a thrilling draw with Coburg Districts.

Glenroy is hoping to cause some upsets on the run home. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Glenroy coach Dean Young has declared the rest of the season as a “redemption” opportunity.

With five games remaining, the Roys have just two wins to their name for the Essendon District Football League division two season.

But having played in six games decided by under 10 points, Young said his side has never stopped believing in their process.

It was a mentality on show on Saturday as Glenroy came from 39 points down to earn a share of the points against Coburg Districts, a result which left the Lions half-a-game outside the top-four.

“We were happy with what we did (the comeback), but unhappy with the result, we should never have let ourselves get into that position,” Young said.

“Six games under 10 points shows how competitive we can be against every side, it can be a little frustrating when those results are going against you.

“From about round three, we’ve started to play how we’ve wanted to, our pressure has been right up. When it’s at the level we want it, I think it’s as good as anyone’s in the competition.

“We’re calling the second half of the year redemption. Everything about the playing group has been positive, they’re reacting the right way to situations, they know the opposition is going to score a few goals.

“We want to upset a few teams on the run home.”

Glenroy coach Dean Young. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

The Roys buy-in came no bigger than debutant’s Jacob Albazi’s effort to sit under a high ball and take a courageous mark.

“He’s an 18-year-old kid and he just wanted it more than anyone else,” Young said.

“There was no care, he just sat there and it really lifted his teammates.”

Kenny Lam played a key role in defence for the Roys after being switched onto Coburg Districts gun Jack McNamara at quarter-time.

The Lions had got off to a hot start with seven goals to one in the opening term.

Jake Young of Glenroy. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

“I thought it was the best game he’s played all year, he just gets a fist to everything,” Young said.

Daniel Riley was named best afield for the home side and Young said it was a performance which came off the back of a culmination of work.

“He’s been playing well all year,” he said.

“He just knows where to look when he’s got the footy in his hand.”

Mark Sabatino, Daniel Ferraro and Joel McDonald also produced impressive performances for their side.

Angus O’Meara was named best for Coburg Districts.