Berwick’s jack of all trades Steve Baker sends one forward in his punting role. The Miners recorded their first victory of 2007 at Henry Turner Reserve in Footscray on Sunday.By Marc McGowan
BERWICK Miners Gridiron Club stormed to its first triumph of 2007 with a convincing 22-6 result over the Bay City Buccaneers at Henry Turner Reserve in Footscray on Sunday.
Nineteen-year-old quarterback Sam Walker, in only his second start for the senior squad, threw three touchdowns – two to the player he replaced, Jamie Stafford – to be instrumental in opening his side’s 2007 account.
The Miners were keen to make a statement after opening the Gridiron Victoria season with consecutive defeats, and made a sensational start.
On the team’s first drive, Walker completed the series with a long pass to wide receiver Stafford to open the scoring.
The initial strike was followed by another touchdown to Stafford before 19-year-old Cameron Neale also entered the end zone to complete Berwick’s fruitful opening half.
Running back and captain Shahid Malimar ran in twice for two-point conversions after touchdowns to give the Miners a largely unassailable 22-point buffer at the break.
Berwick head coach Dale Warren decided to incorporate his second unit into the contest after the interval and protect his lead rather than chase more points.
Chris Guidotti scored the lone touchdown in the second half for the Buccaneers.
The result had much to do with the Miners’ defence, which has stood up all season despite the team’s offensive struggles.
Rob Zimmerman starred again and defensive captain Mark Petana was his usual inspirational self, while defensive back Jerome Bickle was another strong contributor.
Warren was happy to register a win and see his side improve from its first two outings.
“It was a good turnaround,” he said.
“There was improvement, but it was also the opponent.
“They are a team equal to us from an experience point of view, but the biggest difference was that we had a better attitude and (offensive coach) Mel Martin did a good job running the offence.”
Warren also felt his decision to install Walker as the number one quarterback was vindicated on the weekend.
“Sammy played well and worked in well with Mel,” he said.
“He’s been starting since juniors, but now we are trying to mould him to what we want him to be as a senior player.
“Jamie excelled at receiver, Cameron is a natural receiver and Sammy is a natural quarterback.”
Berwick may be headed for another victory on Sunday when it takes on the injury-ravaged Southern Seahawks at Springfield Reserve, Croydon, from 10.30am.
