Whittlesea claims crucial win as it looks to build consistency, momentum in NFL Division 2 season

After a fortnight off and loss to Fitzroy Stars, Whittlesea returned to the winners’ circle with a NFL Division 2 win over Watsonia, as it battles to build consistency and momentum.

Matt Atta in action for Whittlesea.

Whittlesea secured a crucial win on Saturday as it battles to build consistency and momentum.

The Eagles were too good for Watsonia at Whittlesea Showgrounds, claiming a 25-point win to remain fourth on the NFL Division 2 ladder.

A bye and interleague break gave the Eagles a fortnight off earlier this season, returning with a loss to Fitzroy Stars.

Whittlesea now enters the Queen’s Birthday break before a blockbuster clash with Banyule.

Eagles coach Blair Harvey hoped the team could take the momentum through the week off with a host of key players set to return from injury.

Xavier Dimasi in action for Whittlesea last year.

“We’re trying to build some momentum, but it’s hard with so many byes and breaks,” Harvey said.

“It’s just about trying to get that momentum now and a bit of stability in the side.

“We’ve been making four or five changes every week with injuries, which we haven’t been able to help.

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“We came away without injuries this week, which was good, and we’ve still got eight blokes to come back after the Queen’s Birthday weekend.”

Whittlesea jumped out to a 23-point lead at quarter-time before a Watsonia fightback narrowed the margin to nine points.

The Eagles looked comfortable when they held a 24-point advantage at three-quarter-time, and didn’t allow the Saints to get a sniff from there.

Riley Dyson in action for Whittlesea.

“Our last quarter was probably our best of the day,” Harvey said.

“We played 16 kids under 21, so the future of the footy club is pretty bright.”

Harvey praised the impact of Matt Coen in the ruck and Josh Eid across half-back.

Playing his third game of the season, Nick Pupillo booted four goals, taking his season tally to eight.

Elsewhere in Division 2, Banyule pipped Thomastown after the siren in an epic battle.

Devin McDonald slotted a clutch goal to seal the four-point win.

Epping’s winless season continued with a 13-point loss to Fitzroy Stars.

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