Epping overcomes loss of captain, wintry conditions to defeat Watsonia and claim first win of 2019

Epping overcame the loss of its captain and terrible weather to defeat Watsonia and claim a drought-breaking first win of the NFL Division 2 season.

Epping captain Leigh Judd was knocked out before half-time.

Epping snapped its losing start to the season on Saturday with a gutsy 20-point road win over Watsonia.

The Pingers have endured a difficult run, losing their opening seven games.

However, in horrible weather at AK Lines Reserve, they adjusted to the elements far quicker than the Saints and prevailed 5.8 (38) to 2.6 (18).

Watsonia was held scoreless in the first quarter and could only manage 1.2 after half-time as the rain tumbled down.

Epping’s win was soured when captain Leigh Judd was knocked out just before half-time but coach Aaron Johnson was proud of his players’ response.

Epping captain Leigh Judd was knocked out in the win.

“It was great our young group stood up to the challenge in the second half,” he said.

“We controlled most of the game, we adjusted to the conditions better than what they did. It really suited the side we had in.

“The boys hunted the footy really well and pushed it forward and played a really good game of wet weather footy.”

After finally breaking its duck, Johnson said it was just reward for his club.

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“Internally, we know where we are but its some satisfaction for the boys for the effort they’ve put in,” he said.

“Banyule jumped us early the week before but we had a really good third quarter, so it shows at different times we can play good football against good opposition.

“It’s just about staying in the game for long periods and playing a four-quarter game.”

Having been shifted to half-back off-season recruit Tom Burnside continued his fine form while Sage Dicello was dangerous up forward with two goals.

Dallyce Taylor in action for Epping. Picture: Mark Dadswell

“When Reed Jepson went down a couple of weeks ago and we slotted Tommy into half-back and he’s just shone down there,” Johnson said.

“He’s given us so much drive off half-back, it just shows you what a talent he is, which is why we got him to the club.

“Losing (Damon) Marcon, Sage has been our dangerous small forward who can also push up to the wing.

“He’s filled that void, obviously not as experienced, but he’s looking to take that next step with his footy.”

Epping will host Eltham this weekend with the Panthers looking to bounce back from a four-point loss to Whittlesea.

Meanwhile in Division 3, Mernda kept its finals hopes alive with a thrilling one-point away win over South Morang.

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