4th August 2024
By Jaryn Makepeace, Williamstown Media
In a crucial clash, the Seagulls returned home to face the Kangas in their second-last game of the home and away season.
North Melbourne started strong, kicking the first goal, but Williamstown quickly responded with a goal from Corey Ellison, fresh off a six-goal performance last week, to even the score. Corey Rich followed up with another goal to give Williamstown the lead, which was matched shortly after by North Melbourne. The Seagulls struggled to capitalise on their opportunities, ending the quarter with three behinds.
The second quarter began with a bang as Cooper Harvey kicked a goal for North within the first 30 seconds. A brilliantly executed tackle by Nathan Colenso earned him a free kick, but North quickly regained possession and stretched their lead to 10 points. Williamstown continued to miss their chances, kicking behind after behind. However, a big pack mark from Corey Ellison, awarded him the 50 and a goal. The Seagulls then enjoyed a strong five-minute period, with Riley Collier-Dawkins spending some time in the ruck and setting up a Toby Triffett special, putting Williamstown back in front by five points. Yet, they once again struggled to convert, closing the quarter with three more behinds. North Melbourne punished Williamstown’s inaccuracy with a late goal, bringing the halftime score to 4.11.35 for Williamstown and 5.4.34 for North Melbourne.
North Melbourne seized the lead early in the third quarter and dominated the play, converting their chances into goals. They kicked five unanswered goals, building a 36-point lead and deflating the Williamstown supporters. A late goal from Nick Ebinger provided a glimmer of hope as the quarter ended.
In the final quarter, Williamstown tried to stage a comeback. Corey Rich kicked the first goal of the quarter, but North Melbourne quickly responded, making it tough for the Seagulls to close the gap. Jack McHale kicked a goal immediately afterward, followed by a big mark and goal from Corey Ellison, narrowing the deficit to 14 points. An impressive run-down tackle and goal from Jack Brown made the game interesting, but the final siren sounded, and Williamstown fell short against a resilient North Melbourne side.
This disappointing loss comes at a crucial point in the season, with Williamstown now needing to fight to stay in the top 10, rather than the top 6. Despite recent struggles with form, illness, and injuries, the Seagulls have shown they can compete with anyone when at their best.
Final Score
Williamstown: 9.13.67
North Melbourne: 11.9.75
Goals: Corey Ellison 3, Corey Rich 2, Jack McHale 1, Jack Brown 1, Nick Ebinger 1, Toby Triffett 1
Best Players: Luke Parks, Jack Toner, Tom Downie, Riley Collier-Dawkins, Jack Mchale, Corey Ellison
