VFL Elimination Final: Williamstown vs Box Hill
31st August 2024
Williamstown’s grit and determination shone through as they secured a 28-point victory over Box Hill in an Elimination Final, setting up a semi-final showdown with Brisbane.
Williamstown wasted no time asserting their dominance in the opening quarter at Box Hill City Oval. Kicking with the breeze, the Seagulls quickly took control, with Corey Ellison leading the charge by slotting two goals within the first ten minutes. A third goal from former Box Hill player James Cousins extended their early lead, while the Seagulls’ defence stood firm, denying the Hawks any scoring opportunities. Despite Box Hill’s defensive efforts, Williamstown finished the quarter with a 21-point lead, laying the foundation for what would be a solid performance throughout the game.
The second quarter saw Williamstown continue to push forward, quickly adding another goal to extend their lead to 28 points. However, Box Hill began to find their rhythm, with Jake Arundell finally breaking through with the Hawks’ first goal of the day. The Hawks continued to apply pressure, with Nathan Philactides adding another goal to halve the deficit before halftime. Despite Box Hill’s late surge, Williamstown held a 14-point lead at the main break, with their strong defensive structure limiting the damage.
Box Hill came out firing in the third quarter, with goals from Max Ramsden and Jack O’Sullivan bringing them within two points of the Seagulls. However, Williamstown responded quickly, with Ellison booting his third goal to halt Box Hill’s momentum. Brodie McLaughlin then took charge, kicking three consecutive goals in time-on to restore a comfortable 31-point lead. The Seagulls’ ability to withstand Box Hill’s challenge and then regain control of the game demonstrated their resilience and composure under pressure.
In the final quarter, Box Hill continued to fight, with Daniel Wood and Finn Maginness narrowing the gap. However, Williamstown’s defence remained unyielding, and when Jack McHale and Nathan Colenso added late goals, the result was sealed. The Seagulls managed the closing stages expertly, ensuring there was no chance of a Box Hill comeback. With a 28-point victory, Williamstown booked their place in the semi-finals, setting up a rematch against the Brisbane Lions. Key performances from interceptors Joel Fitzgerald and Jake Greiser, along with McLaughlin’s and Ellison’s goal-scoring prowess, highlighted a well-rounded team effort.
Final Score
Williamstown: 11.14.80
Box Hill: 7.10.52
Goals: Brodie McLaughlin 4, Corey Ellison 3, Nathan Colenso 1, Will Fordham 1, James Cousins 1, Jack McHale 1
Best Players: Corey Ellison, Brodie McLaughlin, Jake Greiser, Joel Fitzgerald, Aiden Bonar, Riley Collier-Dawkins
