ANZAC Day dawned miserably and wet, but it did not deter those who wanted to pay their respects to the Diggers. After doing so, many made their way to Bruce Purser Reserve for the big clash between the 2009 grand finallists, East Coast Eagles and UNSW-ES.
It was the first time that most could remember where football had been scheduled on April 25 in Sydney and although many would rather have been enjoying a beer in the clubs and pubs, a good crowd turned out to watch what started off as a great game.
The scores at quarter-time were dead level and the Bulldogs were playing a great brand of football. Whilst not yet concerned, Glenn Garner reminded his players in the break of the team principles and structures and that adherence to those would bring his side out on top at the end of the day.
It didn’t take long to sink in as the Eagles went on to kick another 15 goals, whilst keeping the boys from the Uni to just five for the rest of the match. Once again the ground held up extremely well in the face of persistent showers thus allowing the Eagles to continue their excellent form so far in 2011.
Ryan Fitton (pictured) was outstanding in the midfield and if it was possible, he deserved six votes from the umpires in a commanding display of tough, running football.
Indeed, the engine room really got going with Brad Ure also providing enormous drive to Jamie Vlatko (four goals) and Stephen Doyle (three). Steve O’Connor continued his super start to the season in the ruck and around the ground demonstrating that he has certainly come of age this year.
The winning margin of 70 points has left the Eagles with a very healthy percentage of 237% after round four which will hold them in good stead.
East Coast 3.1 9.4 13.5 18.12 (120)
UNSW-ES 3.1 3.1 5.2 8.2 (50)
Goal kickers: Jamie Vlatko 4, Stephen Doyle 3, Steve O’Connor 2, Mark Goodey 2, Michael Clinch, Dean Costello, Daniel. Spiteri, Jon Vlatko, Ryan Fitton, Ben Rogers, Jackson Dwyer
Best players: Ryan Fitton, Brad Ure, Steve O’Connor, Jack Dimery, Trent Baker, Aian McLennan
Next week’s games - Saturday, April 30
Monarch Oval
10am Challenge Cup ECE v Campbelltown
12pm Division Three ECE v Campbelltown
2.10pm Premier Division ECE v Campbelltown
Blacktown #2
2.10pm Division One ECE v Manly Warringah
Bruce Purser Reserve
10am U/18 Premier Cup ECE v UNSW-ES
Extravaganza Results - Round 4
Premier Division
Best player Ryan Fitton owned by Gus Seebeck
First free Ash Moeller owned by Tammy Moeller
Division One
Best player Tim Physick owned by Steve Gawley
First free Sam Pinchen owned by Jan Frost & Peter Physick
