The Calder Cannons handled the windy conditions on their way to an impressive win against the Western Jets in the TAC Cup.
After an even first half on the scoreboard, the Cannons kicked eight goals to one in the second half to come away with a convincing 10.18 (78)-3.4 (22) win.
Cannons coach Ross Smith said the game was played in really tough conditions.
“It was very windy and the wind was going straight across the ground,” he said.
“The ball spent most of the game on the grandstand side.
“We handled them better. We did have a couple of training sessions during the week, which helped.
“We were able to control the game. We took 75 marks which is rare.”
Smith said they didn’t go in with the intention of chipping the ball around, but it was the way it turned out.
He said their dominance with the ball was reflected on the scoreboard.
“We had a lot of the ball in our half, and had repeat inside 50 entries and plenty of scoring opportunities.”
The Cannons could have won by a lot more had they kicked straight.
While the wind did play some part in that, Smith said goal kicking had been an issue for them. “We had a number of set shots in the first quarter that were blown away by the wind,” he said. “It was nice to eventually get a few goals.”
Tye Browning and Harrison Minton-Connell kicked two goals apiece for the Cannons.
Daniel Mott was named the Cannons’ best for a second straight week.
Smith said the match gave them a chance to look at a few of the younger players and players coming back from private school football.
Lachlan Johnson, Minton-Connell and Harrison Jones were among them.
He said Jones, who is undersized, had to shoulder the ruck load on Saturday. Smith said this week’s selection would be the hardest of the season.
The Cannons’ players who have been part of the Vic Metro team are available for selection.
Smith said the next three weeks would test where the side was at as they play the top three teams. The return of the Cannons’ Vic Metro representatives comes on the back of some good personal performances for the players.
Smith said it was pleasing to see them perform at a higher level.
Prospective father-son pick Rhylee West was named in the All-Australian team. “It’s really pleasing for him and for us,” Smith said of West. “It underlines his talent and doesn’t do his draft prospects any harm.
“Curtis [Taylor] played good as well and Lachlan Sholl played some good games.
