MPA vs Essendon [Rd 9]

Waverley 7 defeated Essendon 3.

No it’s not a typo, last night the Men’s PA hosted Essendon for a “round 9” clash under the lights. This was due to the game being delayed – caused by a blackout at the ground before the first whistle, a few weeks back.

The importance of the game was paramount to the Panther’s season in securing a spot in the top four and to continue their form heading into the business end of the season. However, the Blue Boy’s approached it with caution as a mid-week, cold wet night game against the ninth placed team can always be a recipe for disaster.

The first half of the match saw both teams slog it out to try and break the others spirit – Yet the Panthers rose above and slashed any fears of an upset on the hallowed home turf with a three goal to nil haul in the first term. With Shelton, Dallimore and young gun James Knee all inflicting the damage on the shaky Essendon outfit.

The second half opened with yet another mauling by the Panther’s as Essendon crumbled to the immense pressure. A further four goals were registered to Waverley, including a hat-trick to Dallimore in fine form, while Essendon were able to snag one during the proceedings.

The only disappointment for the game came in the final ten minutes with Essendon being able to peg two fortunate goals back on the scoreboard, to little too late.

The Panthers have finally cracked the top four after a slow start to the season, sitting a pretty fourth. This weekend they meet top of the table Greensborough at WHC – Time to shine!

Goals – Dallimore (3), A.Shelton (2), Ritchie & Knee

Team – Greaves, Shelton, Mutimer, M.Hocking, Mackintosh, Ritchie, N.Eddy, Anthony, Dallimore, O.Preston, Knee, Annetts, Fooks & Ashton