North Footscray’s jaw-dropping nine-goal opening quarter that set the tone for Saturday’s 167-point mauling of Manor Lakes has been rated by co-coach Matt Walsh as up there with the best 30 minutes of football he has seen from his team in three years at the club.
The Devils kicked into a strong breeze but it did not effect their slick ball movement, which left the home side gasping for air and staring an unassailable 50-point margin at quarter-time.
“Our first quarter was probably the best quarter we’ve played in mine and [co-coach] Shaun’s [Borlase] three years,” Walsh said.
“Nine goals into the breeze was a real highlight.
“It was good footy to watch and really clean, so we know that’s what we can dish up.”
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North Footscray will head into the bye on top of the Western Region Football League division 2 ladder.
The 32.20 (212) – 7.3 (45) score was impressive and the Devils have been averaging 32 goals per game over the past three weeks, but it is about to get a whole lot tougher after the break.
They will meet Yarraville-Seddon, Glen Orden and Caroline Springs in consecutive weeks, the three teams most likely to be jostling for finals positions later in the season.
“We haven’t really been challenged since round two, so we’re looking forward to Yarraville-Seddon game and kind of seeing where we’re at,” Walsh said.
“Obviously Caroline Springs was a challenge and Glen Orden in round one, but since then we’ve had three pretty convincing victories.
“It’s really important to win these games as it gives you more of a chance to finish in a top two position and get a double chance.
“You’ve got to beat the teams around you.”
Continuity is the buzz word at North Footscray.
The Devils are seeing the benefits this season of having a settled list over the Walsh-Borlase tenure. Their new additions have been calculated, filling areas of need, rather than a huge influx of players all at once.
“We’ve kept our list together over the last couple of years and added some experience,” Walsh said.
“They’re kind of playing for one another.
“They realise we’re a live chance and you have to do all the little things to kind of go close to winning a flag.”
North Footscray’s ability to mix and match its players is a huge asset.
It is a game of cat and mouse for opposition bench coaches to keep up with all the moves.
“Anyone can play anywhere in our team at the moment and that’s the exciting part about it,” Walsh said.
