EDFL: Hadfield’s Steven Angus to play game 300

A Hadfield defender known for his “unwavering bravery” will celebrate his 300th game this weekend. A teammate recalls the highs and lows of his career and how he always put his team first.

Steven Angus will celebrate his 300th game for Hadfield this weekend. Picture: David Crosling

Hadfield will celebrate one of its favourite sons this weekend.

Steven Angus will play his 300th game for the Hawks, a milestone achievement for a man who has worn the brown and gold his entire career.

The hard nosed defender started with the Essendon District league club in 2001 in the under-12s and played alongside current senior teammates Trent Gleisner and Michael Pell.

Angus’ record currently reads 190 senior, 14 reserve and 95 junior games.

Jake Polizzi, who celebrated his 400th game earlier this year, formed part of a quartet with that trio which came through the cricket and footy club ranks.

It will be fitting all three run out together on Saturday against Keilor Park.

Angus has experienced plenty of ups and downs in his career, tearing his ACL in the final round of the 2014 season which saw him miss out on a senior premiership a year later.

“To his credit and true to his character he soldiered on and has always had his speed and agility and his injury has never slowed him down,” Pell said of his teammate.

“During our toughest year as a club in 2017, he captained the seniors and took on an enormous role.

“It’s been great that the last few years we’ve been able to win some more games and be a lot more competitive as he had to put up with some beltings there for a while.

“Scuba has always been known for his unwavering bravery, a dependable player, and smart user of the ball. Never played with anyone to lay as many smothers as he does.

“He’s an icon of our club and epitomises everything we stand for as a club and community. Sadly they don’t make them like Scuba any more.”

It will be a massive day for the Hawks community as Hadfield also hosts its past players day.

The highs and lows of EDFL action

It was another big weekend of Essendon District league action.

We break down the biggest talking points.

AIRPORT WEST’S YOUNGSTERS CROWNING MOMENT

Airport West youngster Ethan McCarthy showed nerves of steel when he booted the winning goal after the siren in an under-14 division two game against West Coburg. With scores level, McCarthy went back and kicked truly sparking wild celebrations. It was a fine win for the Eagles who kicked 7.1 (43) to 5.7 (37). The win was even more important given the fact Airport West now sit just percentage behind the Burgers on the ladder with both teams sharing an 8-4 record.

DEER PARK’S IMPORTANT WIN

it was billed as one of the game’s of the season and Deer Park delivered a 12-point win against Maribyrnong Park. The Lions now sit one game clear of their namesake in fourth position and based on current form should feature in their first Premier Division finals series. Jake McKenzie was named best by Deer Park while Mark Galea shone. Jackson Barling booted three goals.

KEILOR REMAINS PERFECT

Keilor kept its perfect record alive with a 29-point win over Strathmore. While it wasn’t the perfect performance, the Blues booted seven goals to one in the opening term to set up the rest of the game. Christos Kosmas continued his brilliant season with four goals. Blair Wylie was named the best player on the ground.

TON WATCH?

Josh Covelli reached triple figures last season and he’s bound to give it another shake this year, including finals. The Hillside star booted eight goals on the weekend to take his season tally to 55. With six games remaining and the Sharks firing, there’s every chance Covelli goes close to the magical milestone again.

HEIGHTS WIN A THRILLER 

Avondale Heights claimed a one-point thriller against Taylors Lakes with the last two scores of the game. Jackson Robb’s fourth goal of the day levelled scores at the 29-minute mark before a point moments later secured the result.

KEILOR PARK’S STATEMENT

In a potential finals preview, Keilor Park made a statement in Division 2. The Devils recorded a 65-point win over fourth placed Rupertswood to strengthen their grip on a finals place. Jarod Pontin impressed with a four goal display.