Macleod proves why everyone is saying anyone can beat anyone in NFL Division 1

In an upset of the year contender Macleod has stunned NFL Division 1 power West Preston-Lakeside with an insanely low player points total.

It’s another reminder that in NFL Division 1 anyone can beat anyone.

Macleod produced an upset of the season contender on Saturday, stunning West Preston-Lakeside by 11 points at Moore Park.

The Kangas secured their second win of the season and snapped a five-game losing streak against the Roosters that dated back to early 2018.

Leading by as much as five goals in the final quarter, Macleod had to withstand a late West Preston surge, holding on 9.14 (68) to 8.9 (57).

Composure and control was Macleod coach Craig Hayes’ message to his players.

Patrick Flynn in action for Macleod. Picture: Nathan McNeill

“With five minutes to go they kicked three goals in about three minutes … the message that went out was just to stay composed, hold your nerve and control the footy,” he said.

“That was pleasing in itself that we were are to adjust and hold them off.

“It’s the second week in a row we’ve been able to keep a team to nine goals or less but you’ve got to compliment that with some offensive impact and yesterday we got that right.”

It’s been a “roller-coaster” campaign for Hayes in his first season in charge at DeWinton Park.

A rousing Round 1 win over North Heidelberg was followed by four consecutive losses, including a three-point defeat to relegation rival Northcote Park last week.

However, the coach said the team’s belief had never wavered.

“It’s been a roller-coaster ride to be honest,” Hayes said.

“I don’t think the belief has waned, it’s probably the effort sometimes hasn’t been right.

“The Greensborough game was tough to take because I think we’re better than that and then the close defeat (to Northcote Park) it can sometimes take you some time to pick yourself up.

“Saturday just proves we can compete at a high level but if our attitude and effort isn’t where it needs to be – the entire competition is proving that.

Macleod players huddle up. Picture: Valeriu Campan

“I was talking to Robbie (Maiorana) last night, it’s really difficult coaching wise, if you’re off a bit it’s a hell of a lot of work to get it right.”

Star midfielder Lucas Hobbs was best-on-ground in the victory, winning the ball with ease at the coalface and around the ground.

Big man Patrick Flynn, Haydon Manuel and Jack Bianchin also impressed, while Luke Joyce and Reid Brandt both booted three goals.

“Lucas was exceptional, I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get the 10 (MVP) votes,” Hayes said.

“Hobbsy does it more often than not and on Saturday he was as good as he was because the other guys are doing the work around him.

“The load was shared and I think that helps him make him a better player.

“Joycey and Reid were really lively up front.

“The balance of the forward line is really important and some of their goals were from contests created by other forwards.

“Patrick Flynn is going through the forward line and Patrick Martin’s had a really good season so far too and doesn’t get the applaud he’s deserved.”

The Kangas fielded a team with just 24 player points, handing debuts to youngsters Jacob Smith (one goal) and Mitch Tsaparis.

“it’s outstanding, the homegrown talent, and of those guys there’s half a dozen that are 22 or younger and they all stood and contributed,” Hayes said.

However, the win did come at a cost with Jordan Corelli sent to hospital after being caught awkwardly in a marking contest and suffering a neck injury.

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Positively, the forward was given the all clear and is hopeful of facing Whittlesea next week.

Makhoul Zakkour continued his outstanding early-season form as West Preston-Lakeside’s best in defeat, along with Aiden Tilley and Joel McDonald.

Missing Ahmed Saad, Tilley stepped up with four goals.

The Roosters will look to bounce back when they travel to War Memorial Reserve to take on Greensborough.