MPFNL: Hastings gets first win under new coach Kevin Lylak, young guns fire

Kevin Lylak’s leadership had an impact as Hastings’ fresh faces shone in the Blues’ breakthrough win in MPFNL Division 2.

Jack Slocombe has been in terrific form for Hastings. Picture: Doug Farr

Kevin Lylak is one of the winningest footballers in the Mornington Peninsula league, but his latest “W” had an extra kick.

Hastings’ victory over Karingal on Saturday was Lylak’s first as a senior coach after six straight losses.

There was relief for the seven-time Frankston YCW premiership star — but most of all a deep sense of delight for his players.

“It’s good to get the monkey off our back,’’ Lylak said.

“It wasn’t an easy game to win, Karingal really brought it to us.

“I felt like we won the game, Karingal didn’t lose it, so I think it gives a bit of belief to this group.’’

Hastings kicked more points than goals but got on top with three unanswered goals in the last quarter to win 8.16 (64) to 7.6 (46). Young guns Kade Foster, Logan Paunov, Tom Muscillo and Jack Slocombe had a big say in the win.

Tom Muscillo in action for Hastings. Picture: Doug Farr

Jack Slocombe flies for a mark. Picture: Doug Farr

Slocombe was moved into the ruck in the final five minutes of the match and was pivotal.

“He’s developing really well,’’ Lylak said of Slocombe.

“He’s only played 10 games of footy, he’s come from basketball.

“All the young boys played really well. Our best players over the last few weeks have all been under 23, so good signs for the future.’’

Lylak arrived at Hastings determined to go on a journey of growth with the Blues.

“I’m loving it,’’ he said.

“The culture there is really good. The guys want to improve.

“Last year they struggled to get 29 guys on the (training) track. We’ve been getting over 35 on a Tuesday and well over 40 on a Thursday.

“I know the scoreboard is not showing the growth but there’s definitely a lot of growth off the field.

“I wanted to create a place where people wanted to come and work on themselves and improve, and at the end of the season not want to leave.

“I think the guys are enjoying it. From the feedback I’ve been getting from the players, it’s been really good.”

Lylak believes sustained success will come to Hastings, but patience was the key.

“We have to keep focusing on the message...play better for longer, and the wins will come,’’ he said.

While Hastings’ youngsters have been doing well, the Blues experienced campaigners are also playing a vital role, such as Luke Clark and Ben King.

“Clarky is someone who steadies the ship, he’s so good with the ball in his hands...he’s an elite user of the footy,’’ Lylak said.

For Nathan Burke’s Karingal, Jason Bedford and Oscar Hanson kicked two goals apiece and Teddy Banks, Louis Barbour and Baylin McLeod were the Bulls’ best.