VFL Round 12: Williamstown vs Northern Bullants
15th June 2024
By Jaryn Makepeace, Williamstown Media
After two disappointing results, Williamstown sought to get their season back on track against the Northern Bullants on a gloomy day.
Williamstown started strong, winning the first clearance and having a shot within seconds, although it resulted in a behind. Shortly after, Corey Rich defied gravity and slotted a goal from the boundary. Williamstown’s ball movement was outstanding early, though they were unable to fully capitalise on the scoreboard. Corey Ellison and Jovan Petric both managed to slot good goals to stretch the lead. Nick Ebinger added a fourth late in the first term, pushing the lead to 25 points. Corey Ellison continued his effort, following up a smother to kick his second goal. Will Fordham topped the disposals with 10 in the first quarter.
A free kick inside 50 allowed Nathan Colenso to kick the first goal of the second quarter. The Seagulls’ improved skills were evident as they dominated the first half. The Bullants managed to respond to the Seagulls’ seven-goal streak with a goal of their own. As the rain began to pour, Williamstown’s ball movement was restricted. The Bullants clawed back, making the halftime score 7.6.48 for Williamstown to 3.6.24 for the Northern Bullants.
Cameron Polson kicked a stunner within seconds of the third quarter starting. The Bullants matched the Seagulls goal for goal in the third. Brodie McLaughlin kicked two goals, and Will Fordham added another. Despite the cold rain and wind, fans stayed to watch an exciting match. At the end of the third, Brodie McLaughlin unleashed from 50 meters, kicking his third goal of the quarter, extending Williamstown’s lead to 45 points at three-quarter time.
The fourth quarter was slow on the goal front for Williamstown. The Bullants managed to kick their third goal of the quarter on the final siren, while Williamstown went goalless. Despite this, Williamstown secured a 25-point win. Although they claimed the four points, a consistent four-quarter effort was still lacking.
Williamstown now looks ahead to facing their rivals, Werribee, in a crucial game for both teams in Round 13.
Final Score
Williamstown: 12.13.85
Northern Bullants: 8.12.60
Goals: Brodie McLaughlin 3, Corey Ellison 2, Corey Rich, Cameron Polson 1, Will Fordham 1, Jovan Petric 1, Darby Henderson 1, Nick Ebinger 1, Nathan Colenso 1.
Best Players: Toby Triffett, Luke Parks, Cameron Polson, Aiden Bonar, Harrison Minton-Connell, Corey Ellison.
