Westmeadows knows every win counts in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition – even at this point in the season.
In a competition tipped to be close, the Tigers led at each break against Glenroy but did not quite run away with the game.
It didn’t matter though, as the Tigers won comfortably, 17.4 (106) to 13.11 (89).
Tigers’ coach Dave Connell said the game wasn’t just about the win. The two clubs were competing in their annual Anzac Day clash.
“It’s the second one I’ve been involved in and it’s a really good build-up to the match. It was an emotional day.”
On the field, the battle was hard-fought.
“They were pretty tough conditions with the middle pretty much mud, and it was raining during the game,” Connell said.
“There were lots of packs and the ball spent a lot of time on the ground.
“Whoever was going to be harder for longer was going to win.”
The win takes on more significance for the Tigers which has a growing injury list.
“Our ruckman had a fitness test before the game. We made an agreement that we wouldn’t risk anyone, so he missed the game and we noticed him not out there. Andrew Vavar came in and played his second game.
“Kane North broke his thumb, Stephen Long dislocated his shoulder last week and Dean Simmons dislocated his shoulder on Saturday. We are lucky that we have a lot of depth in our reserves.”
Tim Okines was best on ground.
“We don’t get to see enough of him on the field,” Connell said.
“He played seven games last season and still finished in the top five of our best and fairest.
“Saturday was his first game for the season after broken ribs and he was best on ground.”
Craigieburn continued its unbeaten start to the season, with a massive come-from-behind win against Essendon Doutta Stars.
The Eagles trailed by 51 points before Jason Cloke and Jeremy Page inspired a comeback win, 16.14 (110) to 16.7 (103). Cloke kicked seven goals.
Tullamarine got its first win for the season against Taylors Lakes, 12.7 (79) to 7.11 (53).
In premier division, Greenvale was too strong for West Coburg with a 123-point win, while in division 2, Jacana defeated East Sunbury and Roxburgh Park fell short against Moonee Valley.
