By Ben Ford
The night opened with a moving ANZAC Day service, as the bugle echoed around the ground in front of 2,000 attendees. The significance of the occasion was further highlighted by Williamstown’s special edition guernsey, featuring red poppies across the traditional yellow sash.
On the field, the Seagulls made a strong start, kicking three goals to one early, with K. Dawson opening his account for the season.
J. D’Intinosante continued his strong early-season form, while a courageous diving smother from L. Parks in the goal square prevented Werribee from kicking four consecutive goals.
Despite the even scoreboard, Werribee held the advantage in opportunities, finishing the first term with six scoring shots to three.
The arm wrestle continued into the second quarter, but the Seagulls were unable to regain control as the Tigers began to assert themselves. Entering the match under pressure, Werribee lifted their intensity and controlled general play, adding two more goals for the term.
Williamstown had their chances but couldn’t capitalise. A missed opportunity from M. Philpott proved costly, with Werribee making the most of their forward entries to build momentum. The Tigers carried a 16-point lead into half time, leaving the Seagulls with work to do.
The challenge grew in the third quarter, with Werribee controlling territory for extended periods. For much of the opening 13 minutes, the ball remained in the Tigers’ forward half, as Williamstown searched for the form shown the previous week.
N. Colenso eventually broke the Seagulls’ goal drought, but a running goal from Werribee shortly after halted any momentum, with Werribee maintaining control heading into the final change.
The final quarter presented opportunities for Williamstown, who generated momentum during the middle stages of the term. However, inaccuracy proved costly, with the Seagulls managing just 1.5 despite creating multiple scoring chances. A goal during this period could have brought the margin back and applied late pressure.
For Williamstown, the result followed a strong performance the previous week but highlighted areas for improvement, with Werribee’s pressure and efficiency proving the difference.
While the result was disappointing, the significance of the ANZAC Day occasion was not lost on players or supporters. The Seagulls will look to respond next week against Essendon at the Hangar.
Lest We Forget.
Full Time Score
Williamstown: 11.6 (72)
Werribee: 14.13 (97)
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