St Albans capped off a strong first half of the Western Region Football League season with a 23-point win over Altona on Saturday.
The Saints kicked seven goals to jump to a four-goal lead by quarter-time and while the Vikings battled bravely, the Saints remained in control to record a 19.9 (123) to 15.10 (100) win.
Altona had more scoring opportunities in the second quarter, but the Saints held sway with four goals of their own to extend the lead to 27 by the main break.
The Vikings continued to work hard in the second half, but there was no stopping the Saints in front of their home crowd.
Saints coach Marcus Barclay was happy with a win against a dangerous opponent.
“We got four or five goals in front about three or four times and just couldn’t kick the next couple,’’ he said. “[Altona] fought hard and it became goal for goal in the last three quarters.We’ve jumped out of the blocks quite well all year. We just need to maintain it now … that will be the plan for the next nine weeks.”
Trent Rafferty worked hard for Altona to be one of the Vikings’ best players, while James Flack kicked four goals.
The Saints put up an even performance across the field, with 12 players scoring at least one goal. The win opened up a 12-point gap between fourth-placed St Albans (6-3) and seventh-placed Altona, one of three sides with a 3-6 record.
In other division 1 results Albion beat Port Melbourne, Deer Park edged out Hoppers Crossing, Spotswood was too strong for Sunshine, and Werribee Districts accounted for Yarraville-Seddon.
In round 10 this Saturday, St Albans takes on unbeaten Deer Park, while Altona will face Albion.
