On a beautiful sunny day with no wind and a top of 24 degrees, the Seagulls took to the field with a clear plan to slow down Coburg’s fast-paced start.
Returning to the side after missing the first practice match, Greiser was reading the play well at centre half-back, while yellow jumpers surrounded the footy for much of the opening term.
Coleman was shifted into the half-back line after spending last season as a forward – a change that mirrored the success of his brother at the Brisbane Lions.
With a sprinkling of ex-AFL talent on both teams, the game was evenly contested early. Gollant slotted his second goal in the 24th minute of the 25-minute quarter, giving the Seagulls a narrow four-point lead at the first break.
Williamstown started the second quarter on the front foot, with McLaughlin threading a tough set shot from a tight angle despite wishing for a bit of wind assistance.
First-year Seagull Damon Hollow showcased his team-first attitude, taking a strong mark before unselfishly passing off to Ebinger, who finished with precision for back-to-back goals.
As the half drew to a close, McLaughlin had another opportunity in the final minute after taking a good grab, but his set shot on the siren just missed, keeping the contest tight heading into the main break.
With Coburg holding a one-point lead at the start of the second half, the intensity lifted. Collier-Dawkins laid an impressive early tackle but was penalised with a 50-metres, a contentious call that swung momentum briefly.
Both teams traded goals in the opening five minutes, with Colenso finding the scoreboard for the Seagulls.
Midway through the term, Coburg led 47-46, but Williamstown responded through Brown, who put the Seagulls back in front while donning his new number 2 guernsey.
Hall-Kahan, another first-year Seagull, provided a fresh dynamic in the midfield with his athleticism and foot speed, while Triffett’s clever turn and handball through the centre circle set up another attacking opportunity.
As the clock ticked down, a smart play from Ollington saw him disguise a shot on goal before passing to Cousins, who made no mistake, stretching the Seagulls’ lead to two goals by the final change.
The Seagulls put the game to bed with a dominant final term. Collier-Dawkins kicked truly just two minutes in after Ollington’s slick hands set him up, and McLaughlin found himself in an amusing moment of friendly competition when he was caught off guard by Galvin’s skill – resulting in a lighthearted high-five between the two opponents.
With three minutes remaining, the Seagulls settled into time-wasting mode, controlling possession to secure the result.
McLaughlin had the final say, booting his fourth goal of the match to cap off a second half where Williamstown outscored Coburg seven goals to four.
A composed and well-rounded performance ensured the Seagulls finished on top, continuing their preparation for the season ahead in fine style.
Full Time Score
Williamstown Seagulls: 13.7.85
Coburg Lions: 10.7.67
Are you ready for the 2025 season? Sign on as a WFC member today! https://williamstownfc.com.au/membership/
