Bloods on the rampage

by Michael Di Petta
14th April 2015

THE Warrandyte Bloods got their season off to the best possible start, crushing a hapless Glen Waverley Hawks side at Central Reserve in the season opener.

New sharp shooter Ashley Froud spearheaded the side, kicking eight majors to lead Warrandyte to a 101-point victory.

The Bloods led at every change and restricted Glen Waverley to just two goals for the match, conceding only six points through the first two quarters. After a forgettable first half, Warrandyte raced into action in the third quarter and finished strongly, booting nine goals in the last period to run away deserving winners.

On a perfect day for football both sides were rusty out of the gates and unable to move the ball efficiently to their respective forwards. It was youngster Scott Ternes who would eventually boot the Blood’s first, with a thumping kick from 50 metres out.

Another major quickly followed, this time scored by last season’s centurion goal kicker Luke Dunn. On the back of these goals, Warrandyte led by 16 points at the first change, despite distributing the ball inefficiently.

It was no easier going in the second quarter, with both sides struggling to play their best football. Warrandyte’s play broke down far too often in the middle of the park and clangers slowed any momentum. Excellent play through the centre by hard running Chris Tout and the ever-steady Tim Hookey ensured that Warrandyte led 6.2 to 0.6 at the half.

Fresh off the halftime break, Warrandyte never looked back and put the game to bed midway through the third quarter. Although Glen Waverley finally managed to hit the scoreboard, Warrandyte ran all over what looked a tired opposition and booted goals late in the term to end any chance of a revival. Young Tout continued to impress in his first seniors game and other debutant Chad Gauci began to leave his fingerprints on the result. Froud also looked strong, presenting himself as a genuine forward target.

The fourth quarter became a Froud fest, as the speedster put through major after major, ending the game with eight to his name. The Bloods moved the ball through the middle of the park with nonchalant ease and put the Hawks to the sword to win 19.8 122 to 2.9 21.

The Reserves and Under 19s ensured that Warrandyte was undefeated as a club on the day. Sean Bowers’ 12 goals for the Under 19s side was a particular highlight in a demolition 196-point win, 30.22 to 1.0.

Meanwhile, the Reserves won in an arm wrestle that only broke open in the fourth quarter. A five goal bag from Gareth Hitchman ensured a 26-point victory, 9.11 to 6.3.

The Bloods face Ferntree Gully at Warrandyte Reserve this weekend with early weather forecasts suggesting it could be a beautiful day for footy. A big crowd is tipped.