By Ben Ford
Despite controlling large portions of the contest and finishing ahead in several key statistical areas, the Seagulls fell just short in a thrilling clash at DSV Stadium.
After a week’s layoff, Williamstown returned for its second Friday night showdown in a pivotal top-six clash against an in-form Box Hill outfit riding a four-game winning streak.
The Blue and Gold supporters created a lively atmosphere early as the Seagulls dominated midfield territory in the opening 10 minutes, with Jack McHale continuing his strong form by kicking the first goal of the game.
Williamstown’s pressure and ball movement were strong early, but Box Hill capitalised on their opportunities during a 15-4 inside-50 run to take control of the scoreboard.
Despite generating strong forward-half opportunities, Williamstown managed 1.5 from its first six scoring shots, while Box Hill made the most of its chances with five early goals, including several from outside 50.
Former Seagull Brodie McLaughlin proved difficult to contain throughout the night, kicking two important second-quarter goals during a period where Williamstown controlled much of the play. However, the Seagulls’ return of 3.9 for the term allowed Box Hill to maintain scoreboard control and open up a game-high 18-point lead.
Dewy conditions in the third quarter created turnovers and fumbles for both sides, but the Seagulls continued to fight through the contest. Joel Fitzgerald led from the front in a standout performance, finishing with a game-high 39 disposals as Williamstown continued to win important areas of the game around possession and pressure.
The Seagulls also welcomed debutants Tom Fry and Josh Huxtable, with Huxtable making an immediate impact by kicking two goals in his first VFL appearance. His first major midway through the third term gave Williamstown an important spark as they searched for momentum.
McLaughlin added his fourth, fifth and sixth goals across the third quarter as Box Hill capitalised on limited opportunities to maintain their lead heading into the final break.
Williamstown threw everything at the contest in the final term, dominating inside-50s and continuing to apply relentless pressure. The Seagulls finished the night ahead in possession (53%-47%), tackles (69-59) and handballs (158-145), highlighting how much of the game they controlled despite the result.
As the pressure mounted, the Seagulls found moments of brilliance to keep themselves alive. D’Intinosante produced a remarkable improvised goal after fumbling the ball onto his boot, before Braydon Preuss followed minutes later with another miraculous finish to bring Williamstown right back into the contest.
But just as the Seagulls threatened to steal a draw, Box Hill responded with a late goal to restore their advantage. Williamstown had one final opportunity through Hugo Hall-Kahan after the siren, but the shot drifted narrowly right as Box Hill escaped with a five-point victory.
Despite the disappointment, the Seagulls showed resilience throughout the night, particularly without skipper Finn O’Dwyer, who was a late withdrawal.
Williamstown finished with 32 scoring shots to 16.
The Gulls will now turn their attention to Coburg, with a total of 10 days to regroup ahead of their clash at Barry Plant Park this Sunday.
Full Time Score
Williamstown: 11.23 (89)
Box Hill Hawks: 14.10 (94)
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