In the Round 16 MPNFL fixture, Somerville defeated Tyabb in a fluctuating contest at Bunguyan Reserve, 12.14 (86) to 10.8 (68).
With three rounds to play before finals — and Chelsea, Devon Meadows, Crib Point and Somerville all challenging for a top-five position — winning was non-negotiable for each team. True to form, they all saluted.
Five consecutive wins by Somerville is excellent form. However, Tyabb pushed fourth-placed Devon Meadows in the previous round, falling by a mere two points. Coupled with their home ground advantage and the traditional rivalry between both clubs, the stage was set for a tight contest.
With a strong wind favouring the clubroom end, Tyabb made their intentions clear, leading by 12 points at the quarter-time break. However, two goals against the wind by Somerville gave them the impetus to launch into the second quarter with confidence. Six goals and five behinds to a solitary point resulted in a 28-point lead at the main break.
Playing a closely contested brand of football, Tyabb challenged Somerville in the third quarter, narrowing the margin to just six points at the three-quarter-time break. Somerville eventually shook off their determined opposition to record an important win leading into the massive clash against Pearcedale in Round 17.
In a positive sign for the matches ahead — and with an eye on the future — young players Pax Sheffield-Gunn and Ben Kaddatz (three goals) shone brightly, while talented under-19 player Jack James was given an opportunity in his first senior game for the Eagles. Josh Young showed how important he is to the team’s success, while speedy forward Kai Suparta and Lachie Gill-Renouf continued their strong form.
For Tyabb, Darcy Sawyer, Caden Cappe, Ryan Marks-Logan, David Gourdis and Will Hose were listed among their best.
Postcode Cup Showdown Looms
Round 17 shapes as an absolute blockbuster in the Postcode Cup between second-placed Pearcedale and Somerville.
Coming off a massive win against Rye, Pearcedale’s goalkickers — including ex-Port Adelaide forward Brett Eddy (10 goals), Cruiz West (4), Luke Daniel (3) and Mitchell Davis (3) — are in form and dangerous.
However, the team defence which Somerville has successfully implemented — led by gun full-back Mitch Mantell, Oliver Heavey, Bailey Bakker, Jake Haskett, Lachie Fewster and Josh Young — remains committed, disciplined and hungry.
Senior Reserves
Somerville is currently on a run of 16 successive wins, with competition for selection intense. Pearcedale (2nd) and Frankston Bombers (3rd) will provide strong opposition in the final two rounds.
Somerville 16.17 (113) defeated Tyabb 4.3 (27)
Best Players: Ethan Watts (4 goals), Travis Finn, To Bain, Zac Folkes, Sam Garner.
Other Results
- Chelsea 97 def. Karingal 47
- Devon Meadows 63 def. Seaford 58
- Frankston Bombers 50 lost to Crib Point 51
- Hastings 80 lost to Bonbeach 92
- Rye 54 lost to Pearcedale 157
Netball Results
Somerville vs Tyabb
- A Grade: Somerville 43 def. Tyabb 36
- B Grade: Somerville 27 lost to Tyabb 55
- C Grade: Somerville 40 def. Tyabb 33
- D Grade: Somerville 44 def. Tyabb 37
- Under 17: Somerville 45 def. Tyabb 10
