The Eagles were due to clash with the North Shore Bombers at Gore Hill in St Leonards on Saturday, but heavy overnight rain prompted the Willoughby Council to close the ground. With Bruce Purser Reserve purpose built for this type of weather scenario, the NSWAFL transferred the match to Rouse Hill and although the rain was heavy, the ground responded beautifully.
The end result saw a 77-point victory to the reigning premiers after being tested early by an enthusiastic Bombers outfit. In fact, the margin crept to within two goals at the opening of the third quarter, but when the Eagles clicked into gear, North Shore were unable to register another major. In the meantime, East Coast kicked 10 goals amidst intermittent heavy rain to record their second impressive result in successive weeks.
Daniel Spiteri looks to be returning to the phenomenal work rate that he has become known for since his first game in 2008 as a 16-year-old. Round five at Campbelltown will see “Boonie” play his 50th game. Continuing their magnificent start to the season were Steve O’Connor and Trent Baker who yet again gathered possessions at will in the ruck and across half-back respectively.
Also working his way back into Sydney football is former Hawthorn scholarship listed player Michael Johnston. “Mouse” has definitely established himself as a regular in this side.
Goals on a wet day are hard to get, but the Eagles managed a very respectable 16, with Jamie Vlatko and Stephen Doyle kicking three each.
The only other Eagles side to play on a disrupted weekend was the U/18 Challenge Cup boys who went down to Macquarie Uni on their home ground by 56 points.
Next week's games
Easter, ANZAC Day and footy make for an interesting mix.
Next Monday, April 25, Bruce Purser comes alive as the Eagles and UNSW-ES acknowledge the ANZAC spirit. The Bulldogs come visiting as an undefeated club in the first three rounds and East Coast will need to be right on top of their game to stay ahead of the team they defeated in the 2009 grand final.
Midday: Division One v UNSW-ES
2.10pm: Premier Division v UNSW-ES
East Coast 4.6 6.9 9.10 16.12 (108)
North Shore 1.0 3.1 4.4 4.7 (31)
Goal kickers
Jamie Vlatko 3, Stephen Doyle 3, Ash Moeller 2, Mark Goodey 2, Daniel Spiteri 2, Ben Rogers , Steve O'Connor, Damien Charleston, Jackson Dwyer
Best players
Daniel Spiteri, Steve O'Connor, Michael Johnston, Trent Baker, Rowan Bilkey, Jon Vlatko
