IN windy conditions at Gembrook the Brookers slipped out the finals race in two poor quarters.
After losing the toss and kicking against a fivegoal breeze the Brookers were able to score the first two goals.
But Mt Evelyn was able to regroup and dominated the rest of the quarter to grab a fourgoal lead.
In the second and third quarters the Brookers went missing and allowed Mt Evelyn to surge to a 10 goal lead by threequarter time.
The Brookers came out firing in the last quarter and got within two goals of Mt Evelyn, but Mt Evelyn was able to hold its slim advantage. The loss left the Brookers without an opportunity for a finals berth.
Scores: Mt Evelyn 15.9.99 d GembrookCockatoo 12.14.86. Best: Brad Charman, Craig Clarke, Matt O’Neil, Mitch Hedger.
RESERVES
After late withdrawals seven under18 players who had just finished a tough game stood up for the Brookers. Kicking with the wind the centre line through Steve Paull, Nathan Kruzicevic, James Perkins and Cameron Williams were able to get first use of the ball and deliver it long into the forward line. A brilliant snap by Chris Bourne roving the pack started the momentum for the Brookers. In the second quarter the back line defended the early lead, holding Mt Evelyn to only two goals. A new look forward structure was working well.
In the third and fourth quarters the Brookers continue to play in particular Mitch Evans, Michael Anderson, Grainger Hartridge, Ricky Causer all standing up to the challenge. The experience of James Perkins, David Hope, Nathan Kruzicevic and Cam Williams brought a superb 10goal win.
Scores: GembrookCockatoo 16.17.113 d Mt Evelyn 7.5.47. Goals: Todd Pye 3, David Hope, Mitchell Evans, Cam Williams 2, Chris Bourne, Matt Failla, Aaron Campbell, Simon Sharlott, James Perkins, Ryan Thomas, Nathan Kruzicevic 1.
UNDER 18
Gembrook combined well and played with purpose, Todd Pye exerting his authority in the ruck. Gembrook was able to dominate Mt Evelyn in most aspects of the game. But in the third quarter the Brookers again went to sleep and let Mt Evelyn back in the contest. The move of Grainger Hartridge to the unfamiliar forward line and a renewed intensity steadied the Brookers, who took a well deserved win by two goals. Cam Osborne, in probably his best game for the season, proved unstoppable and his high possession game combined with good use of the football was a highlight. Captain Mitch Hedger again proved his worth at full forward, bagging three goals. This win will stand the team in good stead for the last few games.
Scores: GembrookCockatoo 9.13.67 d Mt Evelyn 7.13.55. Goals: Mitchell Hedger 3, Phil Muratore, Mitch Evans, Todd Pye, Aaron Campbell, Ricky Causer, Cam Osborne 1.
Best: James Hampton, Todd Pye, Cam Osborne, Mitch Evans, John Shipp.
