U18’s Round 8 Match Report

Round 8 saw us face the Eagles for the 3^rd time in 5 weeks in a strange fixture anomaly. Being at home, this fixture was the annual Jake Watson Shield match as we remember past Bloods for their time in the West U18 program. We are honoured to play this match each year and recognize the attendance and messages from the families of Jake Watson, Corey Siemers, Ben Mitchell and Glenn Knott. We had 4 changes for the match to the previous team, and a special mention to Tom Scully, Harry Lemmey and Anthony Munkara who played in Melbourne for the national academy v the Collingwood VFL side.

The match was tight all day and both sides had opportunities throughout. We were able to play some exciting football at times with our ball movement on the back of excellent contested work. On the flip side, we conceded some goals that we shouldn’t have and we have some clear focus areas for the week coming. We certainly had chances to get in front in the last quarter but couldn’t finish our work, which was the story of the day.

Adam Bunworth played his best game for the year with 28 disposals and an impressive 13 tackles. Liam Westdijk continued his good midfield form with 30 disposals and Judd Hansen kicked 2 goals and had 24 disposals from half-forward. Taj Spencer showed good poise down back and stood tall all day, Liam Bennetts impressed in a split mid/back role and Kye Roberts moved up the field on to a wing and had 27 disposals.

Ultimately we are disappointed not to bring the shield home, and would happily trade a previous win to have it here if we could. Full credit to the Eagles on being the better side on the day. Despite the result, I was extremely proud of the group for the way they battled and conducted themselves. The boys threw everything at the Eagles and showed how much it means to our club.

This week we face South Adelaide at home. The match is on Saturday at 1:15pm. We really appreciated your support last week and look forward to seeing you again at future matches.

Best: Adam Bunworth, Liam Westdijk, Judd Hansen, Taj Spencer, Liam Bennetts, Kye Roberts

Goals: Judd Hansen, Harrison Barker (2), Jamie Kovacic, Kade Hilton, Thomas Mickan (1)

Paul Streatfield

Talent Manager & U18 Coach