MPNFL 2021: Frankston YCW extends lead on top of the Division 1 ladder
A member of Williamstown’s leadership group was a surprise inclusion for the Stonecats as they dispatched Mt Eliza in MPNFL Division 1.
Mornington
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Frankston YCW coach Paul Goonan said his side had redemption on its mind when it hosted Mt Eliza in the top-of-the-table clash on Saturday.
The sides played out a thrilling draw back in round two.
It’s the only game YCW hasn’t won this season.
“We took our draw with them as a loss,” Goonan said.
“So in my mind we needed to get that back.
“We were disappointed with our result in round two so it was an opportunity to get something back on them which was important for us.”
The Stonecats didn’t let up as they swept to a 51-point win, 13.13 (91) to 6.4 (40), in front of the club’s 1991 premiership side enjoying a 30-year reunion.
Brenton Lambert, against his former club, was named best afield for his three-goal display.
He played all over the ground, spending time in defence, on a wing and up forward.
Frankston YCW was boosted by the inclusion of Williamstown VFL star Josh Pickess.
His last game for the Stonecats was the 2012 premiership, as a 17-year-old.
“He’s a very good VFL player,” Goonan said.
“He’s in the leadership group at Williamstown.
“He became available…and he went very well. He’s obviously got VFL traits, good closing speed and tackles really strongly. Nice clean skills.”
Pickess will play again for YCW against Frankston Bombers this Saturday — ironically against his brother Sam.
Goonan added: “We’d love to get him for a few more games this year and qualify him for finals if we can. That’s the plan.”
Matt Troutbeck also impressed for the Stonecats with three goals, his relentless forward pressure earning praise from his coach.
Teenager Christian Tsiampas slotted two goals in another lively display up forward, while young midfielder Kaiya Deas underlined his potential with a strong display.
“In the last two weeks he (Deas) has taken a big step up from a learning midfielder — he’s been learning from Kyle Hutchison and Blake Mullane — but now he’s legitimately one of our midfielders,” Goonan said.
Bonbeach vice-captain Owen Hulett made an eye-popping return from injury, firing off five goals in the Sharks’ 63-point win over Red Hill, 13.17 (94) to 4.7 (31).
Hulett tore his calf in the last practice game in March and has been patiently biding his time in the reserves.
“He provided us with a target up forward,” Bonny coach Adrian Connolly said.
“We’ve been really good at creating opportunities. I think we’re number one in the league for inside fifties but he just gave us a bit more structure and focus.
“He took three or four marks and converted them into goals.
“His brother Liam helped him; between the two of them they had a really good day out.”
Sandringham VFL player Beau Bailey slotted into the Bonbeach side and dominated on a wing.
Luke Verma, Mitch Gent, Sam Gilbert and Tom McLean were others to impress for the 7-2 Sharks, who have climbed to second spot.
Wholehearted defender Matt Douglas played well in his 100th game.
Guy Hendry kicked a goal in the final minute after a 50 metre penalty to give Pines a gripping five-point win over Sorrento.
Hendry finished with three goals to be adjudged best afield.
Brendan Barfoot had a good day, kicking four goals.
Pines coach Paddy Swayn said his young side continues to improve.
“The kids just keep getting better and better,” he said.
“Cooper Bryan is surprising me, he had a couple of really good tackle efforts and he’s only 17 still.
“We’ve sort of got Dad’s Army as the bookends, with Jack Fisher and Barfoot, and the rest is kindergarten cop.”
Sorrento’s Daniel Grant suffered a shoulder injury.
Dromana beat Rosebud narrowly for the second time this season.
The Tigers won by four points, 7.11 (53) to 7.7 (49), to boost their finals hopes.
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