Fitzroy record first VAFA Premier Division men’s win in club history

Fitzroy created another significant piece at Brunswick Street Oval and the young guns were front and centre. Here’s who stole the show including a rising key forward.

Fitzroy enjoyed a strong win. Photo: Dennis Timm/VAFA Media.

Fitzroy’s already rich history has another significant milestone — a first VAFA Premier Division men’s win.

The Roys broke through for a 14.12 (96) to 12.7 (79) win over Old Melburnians on Saturday to kick start their season, after dropping the first four games.

Travis Ronaldson’s side booted five goals to two in the final term in front of a passionate crowd to have Brunswick Street Oval heaving on the final siren.

“It’s a huge confidence boost for us, it’s going to reassure a lot of our younger guys they can play at the level,” Ronaldson said.

“Around 10 of the players who played on Saturday have less than 10 games of senior experience. We had a reasonable turnover of our list after coming up from B-grade.

“The lessons we’ve learnt are about being able to weather the storm and dealing with the pressure that comes with this high level footy.

“Four or five of the younger guys played their best games on the weekend. That’s the new baseline if we’re going to continue improving.”

Fitzroy performed strongly. Photo: Dennis Timm/VAFA Media.

Exciting young key forward Dane Harvey was the focal point up forward for the Roys, booting seven goals to lead his side to the historic win.

Ronaldson was full of praise for the former Northern Knight, who he said had battled injury issues in recent seasons.

“He’s improving every week,” he said.

“He crashed packs, brought the ball to ground and took a few good contested grabs. It was a great all-round performance.”

Another youngster in Charlie Faubel enjoyed his “best game” of the season according to Ronaldson.

The medium sized forward was able to work up the ground as a high half forward and link the play for his side.

“He got plenty of the footy which came from all of his hard work,” he said.

“The standout for me was his pressure and tackling, it really helped set the tone for us.”

Fitzroy were all smiles. Photo: Dennis Timm/VAFA Media.

In defence, Max Ellis performed strongly and won plaudits from the coach.

Darcy Lowrie, Anthony Johnson and Tom Holmes also impressed.

Fitzroy will now face another huge test in St Kevin’s.

Ned Nichols was named best afield for Old Melburnians while Sam Laube and Ben Haysman battled strongly.