Williamstown has regained its footing in the VFL premiership race after an impressive 46-point win over Sandringham in a cut-throat VFL semi-final at North Port Oval on Saturday.
The Seagulls, defending champions, were dismal a week prior so were out to prove their qualifying final loss to Collingwood was a mere aberration.
It was a game featuring two desperate sides that could hardly be separated. They traded goals to be near level-pegging 10 minutes into the second quarter.
The game changed complexion after a lengthy stoppage as medical staff attended to Sandringham’s Jack Noone.
Noone landed awkwardly in a contest on the outer wing and sustained a broken leg.
It was a distressing scene for both sets of players, but it had more of an impact on Noone’s Zebras teammates. The Seagulls banged on the next four goals to take a 26-point lead into half-time.
With one man down, Sandringham mounted a gallant comeback after half-time, getting to within 17 points at three-quarter time.
But the Seagulls scooted away in the last, kicking six of the final seven goals.
Williamstown barely had a weak link.
At the coal face, it was Michael Gibbons, Willie Wheeler and Ben Jolley who carved up the Zebras’ midfield.
In the first half, Sam Dunell was the standout forward for the Seagulls, finishing with three goals for the game, while Ayce Cordy took over to be the commanding presence in the second half and kicked three goals of his own.
Williamstown will face Casey Scorpions at North Port Oval on Sunday, the winner advancing to the grand final.
Footscray has made a habit of drama-filled last-quarter wins this season, and its 19-point victory over Essendon was no exception.
The Bulldogs came back from 18 points down at three-quarter time to win on the back of a six-goal-to-one final term at North Port Oval on Sunday.
Jordan Russell was best-on-ground for the Dogs with 25 touches and 10 marks.
Footscray will meet Collingwood in the preliminary final at North Port Oval on Saturday.
