Tara Murray
Williamstown kept its Victorian Football League season alive with a strong four quarter performance against Richmond in the wildcard round.
The Seagulls stamped their authority early in the game on Sunday and were able to keep the momentum for the full four quarters, winning 18.12 (12)-7.12 (54).
Seagulls coaching director Jeff Andrews said they were starting to put together some really strong form at the right time of the year.
“We did what we needed to do and it was a good day for the club,” he said.
“We asked the boys to attack the game and keep composed. Everyone was great and we used the ball really well.”
Andrews said it was a typical day at DSV Stadium with a wind to one direction of the ground.
The Seagulls had it first and managed to kick away to a 45 point lead.
Andrews said it was what set up the game for them.
“We kicked seven first quarter goals and managed to play well into the wind in the second quarter,” he said.
“We had a good third quarter to put the game out of reach. We were able to hold on in the fourth quarter.”
Brodie McLaughlin kicked four goals for the Seagulls while Jack Toner got three and Nicholas Ebinger and Jack Brown kicked two.
Andrews said Toner was the best player on the field.
As well as his three goals he had 30 disposals and seven clearances.
McLaughlin also had a good game as did Corey Rich, who took nine marks. Andrews said they had half a dozen to 10 really good players.
The Seagulls were able to welcome back Joel Fitzgerald and Aidan Bonar back into the side which was a bonus.
Andrews said the win would help the confidence in the group continue to grow.
The side will play knockout matches for the rest of the year.
“We’ve played really well the last couple of weeks,” he said. “We’re happy with how we are playing.”
The Seagulls now face Box Hill in an elimination final on Saturday.
Andrews said they would have to continue their good form.
“They beat us about four weeks ago and towelled us up,” he said. “We learned a lot in that game and hopefully it will hold us in good stead.”
Meanwhile, four Williamstown players were named in the 30 player VFLW All-Australian squad.
Sharnie Whiting, Ash Thorneycroft, Eliza Straford and Lori Stepnell are in contention for the final team.
