EFL 2019: Balwyn moves to 3-1 record after 57-point win over Rowville

Balwyn moved two games clear inside the EFL Premier Division top five and drew level with Rowville on a 3-1 record after a 57-point victory over the Hawks.’

Kris Pendlebury was again superb in defence for Balwyn. Picture: James Ross/AAP

The result may not have surprised but the margin certainly did.

Balwyn was quick to take control of its Premier Division clash against Rowville at Seebeck Oval on Saturday as it walked away with a 57-point win.

The Hawks started with the wind at their backs, but by quarter-time their backs were to the wall.

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Balwyn set the scene for the 13.13 (91) to 4.10 (34) triumph when it held a 17-point advantage at quarter-time, despite kicking into what coach Rodney Eade rated as a “good two to three goals” breeze.

By halftime the Tigers held a 50-point lead away from home and the game was as good as over.

“Their first goal he (Ziggie Alwan) would have kicked from 60m I reckon and kicked it over the fence,” Eade said.

“That was the difference in the end — we took advantage (of the wind) in the second quarter and it was probably all over by then.

“It was a very even contribution. We were able to win the ball well at contests and be able to put pressure on them.”

Rowville’s score was its lowest since the 2015 elimination final when it kicked 4.6.

The Hawks had started the season 3-0 but the defeat served as a reality check.

Rowville had averaged 31 scoring shots in the first three rounds but was restricted to less than half that against the stingy Tigers.

Star defenders Kris Pendlebury and John Milhuisen were pivotal in the backline.

Cooper Sharman in action for Balwyn. Picture: Stuart Milligan

“Generally our pressure was pretty good on the ball coming in but our defenders … held up really well,” Eade said.

“Pendlebury was terrific and Milhuisen was fantastic but all the back six, it’s probably the best they’ve defended all year.

“Some of our defenders have been zoning off trying to get the ball and I think they defended first and all six of them defended really well.

“(Jayme) Gottliebsen played well, (Jackson) Weatherald, Jack Martin and Taylor (Gilchrist), they all defended well and were strong and able to pressure on the opposition.

“I think the first three players we put in the best players were backmen but all six of them could have been there.”

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