WRFL 2019: St Albans scores 34-point Division 1 win over Deer Park

St Albans underlined its rapid improvement with a 34-point win over reigning premier Deer Park, leaving it at 5-3 and in contention for a finals berth for the first time in five seasons.

Jarrod Tuppen starred for St Albans on Saturday. Picture: Local Legends Photography

Can St Albans contest WRFL Division 1 finals for the first time since 2014 this year?

The Saints gave their hopes of figuring beyond the home-and-away season a massive shot in the arm on Saturday, toppling six-time reigning premier Deer Park by 34 points.

Perry Meka’s side sits fourth on the ladder with a 5-3 record — already an improvement on St Albans’ tally of four wins in the previous two campaigns.

While the 16.12 (108) to 11.8 (74) victory would have understandably gladdened the hearts of Saints fans, Meka was delighted with his team’s response in the final term when the Lions made their move.

St Albans established a 27-point lead at the final change after a four-goal-to-one third term before the powerhouse woke from its slumber.

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“In the last quarter, they kicked the first three goals and came back real hard at us,” Meka said.

“We could’ve lost, fell over the line to have a win or get some momentum back and finish the game full of run, which we did.

“As a coach, you’re pleased about that. That’s what really ticked the boxes.”

Meka heaped praise on big man David Kovacevic, who took on three opponents and gave his midfielders some superb service.

Tim Jenkins (four goals) and Shylo Smith racked up possessions at will, while Adem Asani kicked three goals in as many minutes in a decisive cameo.

Defender Jarrod Tuppen also kept ex-AFL forward Jack Redpath to one major, earning plaudits from Meka.

“He was sensational and just stuck to the task,” he said.

“At the end of the day he was running off him and they moved Redpath to centre half-back.

“As soon as you see the opposition coach do that, that’s a big tick.”

While it is only June, the significance of the triumph was not lost on the first-year coach.

“Up until this point we hadn’t beaten anyone above us,” Meka said.

“The fact it was Deer Park puts another level on it.

“To (the players’) credit … they’ve been really good and followed what I’m trying to teach.

“We needed to keep the footy off Deer Park. If you turn it over with them, they’ll make you pay.”

Meka noted it “doesn’t get any easier” for his side, with a home fixture against ladder-leader Altona the next assignment.

The Vikings hammered struggling Albion by 178 points at the weekend.

Hoppers Crossing, Spotswood and Werribee Districts were the other winners in Round 8.

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