By Tara Murray
Westmeadows coach Ash Flavel wanted a response from his playing group but wasn’t expecting the one that came on Saturday in the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition.
The Tigers had a disappointing start to the season with a first up loss against Coburg Districts, but bounced back in a big way against East Sunbury.
After winning its first game in a long time, the Thunder was brought back down to earth as the Tigers smashed them, 33.14 (212)-6.4 (40).
Flavel said he didn’t think it mattered who they played on Saturday, it would have been a strong performance.
He said he put it on the group to stand up
“Credit to Coburg Districts, they outplayed us,” he said. “I was still a little bit reluctant on how we would go heading into this game.
“East Sunbury had a good game last week and had a few handy recruits. It was a bit unknown but kicking 11 goals in the first quarter takes the sting out of the tail.
“I was proud of every single one of them as they finally kicked into gear.”
Brendan Fevola did take to the field for the Thunder, but didn’t return after leaving early in the match.
Flavel said the ball struggled to get down that end of the field.
The coach said it was hard to give votes after the game, with everyone stepping up and playing their role.
Hugo Jenkins kicked eight goals and was named their best. He along with Mitch Church, who has returned to the club, lead a new look forward line.
Church kicked six goals in the win.
“Since he has come across from Strathmore he has been brilliant,” Flavel said of Jenkins.
“He is very professional and a very good player.
“Churchy was really quiet last week. He knew that and it was a good response from him.”
Flavel said it had been good to get such a good spread.
The Tigers still have some other players to come back into the side.
Westmeadows have the weekend off due to the Easter break with Flavel saying it would be good for a few of the sore boys.
The Tigers are then in action on Good Friday, hosting Glenroy in their traditional match.
Both sides are undefeated.
“They have some experience, some A-grade experience,” he said. “It sets up a good game.”
