The Seagulls made an immediate impact, dominating early territory with four of the first five inside 50s. H. Minton-Connell opened the scoring from a tight angle before H. Hall-Kahan added a brilliant goal on the run following slick defensive transition.
Smart ball use inside 50 allowed B. Kennedy to convert the third, with forward pressure and repeat entries setting up a 5.1 (31) to 1.2 (8) quarter-time lead.
However, the Seagulls responded impressively against the flow. A steadying goal halted Port’s momentum before another major extended the margin.
D. Cunningham capitalised on strong hands and relentless defensive pressure to add another, while the side’s structure behind the ball prevented Port from generating any free-flowing rebound.
Preus was particularly influential in one-on-one contests, asserting his presence aerially and at ground level. Williamstown’s strength in numbers and willingness to provide an option at every contest continued to stand out.
The Seagulls’ direct ball movement and defensive structure helped extend the margin to 10.2 (62) to 3.4 (22) at half-time.
Momentum shifted in the third as Port narrowed the gap amid rising physicality, but a crucial forward-50 turnover and composed finish helped Williamstown steady and maintain control, leading 12.4 (76) to 7.7 (49) at the final break.
A brief scuffle broke out after a heavy off-the-ball incident, reflecting the rising temperature of the game. Port capitalised on the momentum shift, narrowing the margin and asking serious questions of the Seagulls’ composure.
Port surged late to get within 22 points, but the Seagulls showed composure under pressure. A timely fourth-quarter goal steadied the side, and a disciplined defensive response closed out the contest.
The victory highlighted Williamstown’s direct style, forward pressure and resilience — positive signs as Round 1 approaches.
Full Time Score
Williamstown Seagulls: 14.6.90
Port Melbourne: 10.7.67
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