Beaconsfield is back on the winner’s list.
After two months of grit and grind which has yielded just one win, the game against injury-hit Mooroolbark was a must-win – and the Eagles got up 16.14(110) to 4.3(27).
In his first game back from a sustained concussion layoff, co-captain Damien Johnston dominated through the midfield, giving Beaconsfield the class it has lacked in recent times.
“After quarter time, he won crucial centre clearances and didn’t look like he had missed five games,” coach Mick Fogarty said.
“’Damo’ was exceptional and his ability to win contests and spread and use it well made him a welcome addition in our engine room.
“The boys bounced back well after a poor performance which we acknowledged against Montrose.
“We had a real purpose to win the contest and let the scoreboard look after itself, which it did, which is great.”
Charlie Muley’s second game back netted him five goals; back to his best in the air and Jake Bowd and Hayden Brough kicked three each.
“He’s a tall target for us and he was clunking them on the weekend and his goal kicking was fantastic,” Fogarty said of Muley.
“To get his contest and ability to bring the ball to ground was massively important for us.”
Young defender Ethan Winterton was given the role of competing in the ruck for an Eagles side whose tall stocks are depleted, and did a fine job.
Beaconsfield faces Norwood this Saturday, before Bayswater and Park Orchards and is aware it remains in control of its destiny only if it wins all three games.
Results R15: Norwood 7.5(47) v Montrose 20.17(137), Beaconsfield 16.14(110) v Mooroolbark 4.3(27), Park Orchards 14.17(101) v North Ringwood 11.8(74), Boronia 7.11(53) v South Belgrave 12.9(81).
Ladder: South Belgrave 48, Park Orchards 48, Boronia 32, Beaconsfield 28, North Ringwood 28, Montrose 28, Mooroolbark 16, Bayswater 12, Norwood 0.
Fixture R16: South Belgrave v Bayswater, Park Orchards v Boronia, Montrose v Mooroolbark, Beaconsfield v Norwood
