WRFL Division 1: Josh Bench leads Altona to 26-point win over Hoppers Crossing

Enforced changes turned match winning moves for Altona with one man thriving in the middle of the ground in the absence of a “few A-graders”.

Altona is discovering more match winning options as the season goes on.

With just one rotation available on the bench in the second half, Vikings coach Corey McCall was forced to make changes he didn’t expect in his side’s 9.9 (63) to 5.7 (37) win over Hoppers Crossing.

After booting four goals in the opening term, Altona would only go onto kick five more for the game.

The moves included switching Will Taylor into the midfield in the absence of Taylor Whitford who has made a sensational start to the season.

“We were missing a few A-graders through there and I thought Will stepped up really well for us,” he said.

“He kicked a goal and played a terrific role alongside Josh Bench who was the best player on the ground for us. “Benchy” probably wasn’t 100 per cent himself but he willed himself to every contest.

“We have a mantra of replacing a Viking with a Viking and every week we’re going to front up with a plan to win a game and fortunately we were able to do it again.

“I’ve really happy with the position we’ve been able to put ourselves in despite our challenges with injuries and illness.”

Joshua Bench produced another strong game for Altona. Photo: George Sal

In defence, Mitch Turnbull once again starred against one of the best teams in the competition.

And he was well supported by Josh Hindle according to McCall.

“I thought it was one of the best games Mitch has played for the club,” he said.

“Both of those guys gave us great confidence behind the ball and were able to limit the influence of some talented Hoppers’ forwards.”

Mitch Turnbull played one of his best games for Altona according to his coach. Picture: Local Legends Photography

McCall admitted his side adopted a “very defensive” mindset in the second half as they tried to control the game given their challenges with rotations.

“We were fortunate to hit the scoreboard early,” he said.

“Especially in the last quarter we tried to slow the game right down and control the footy. A lot of boys were absolutely gassed, it was certainly a warm day.”

Young tall Ben Tipper was also handed his senior debut playing a “relief” role for Domonic Wili in the ruck.

“Ben has an athletics background and came to the club during the pre-season having not played since juniors,” McCall said.

“I thought he played the relief ruckman role really well for us. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

McCall also praised Jack and James Callaway for their “lively performances”.

Meanwhile, Elliot Cavallaro finished with three goals to take his season tally to 21.

Altona now faces a huge clash against Deer Park as it looks to cement its place in the top three as Hoppers look to bounce back against Spotswood.