VAFA: ‘Shock’ coaching change leads to boilover win for Old Peninsula in Division 1
A VAFA Division 1 club has scored an electrifying upset win, ignited by a young gun, just days after parting ways with its coach.
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A change of coach has spurred Old Peninsula to a thrilling five-point win over second-placed UHS-VU in VAFA Division 1 on Saturday.
Peter Williamson stepped down as coach during the week, citing for personal reasons.
He was replaced by assistant coach Steven Kidd and the Pirates responded with an electrifying performance, inspired by teenage star Bailey Payze, who fired off six goals.
Old Peninsula stunned UHS-VU with a four-goal-to-one second quarter to go in at halftime with an 11-point lead.
The Pirates then showed grit and determination to keep their noses in front, gripping on for a 10.7 (67) to 8.14 (62) triumph to improve their season record to 6-5 and remain in the hunt for finals.
Payze is having a breakout season, with 22 goals in 11 games.
Old Peninsula also counted James Bravo, Lochie Baczyk, Kurt Thiele, Tom Feldgen and ex-VFL player Jake Lovett among their best players.
Old Peninsula put out a statement on Saturday explaining Williamson’s decision to step down as coach, saying it came after “several discussions’’ and was “for personal reasons’’.
“This obviously comes as a shock to all of us - players, staff, committee, supporters, sponsors and parents - but Willo believes this is the best decision for himself and his family right now,’’ the statement said.
“As a parent, as a coach and an ambassador for our Pirate community, Willo plans to remain close to the Pirates and the players, supporting us in our steps toward success. We’re grateful of Willo’s decision to remain close, but respect that he may need some time to reset and focus on what’s important to him.’’
Williamson has nurtured Old Peninsula’s young talent over the years, with roles including U19s coach, reserves coach and seniors coach.
Old Peninsula is in sixth spot with seven rounds to go.
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