By Ken Moore
THE 2008 minor premiers Nar Nar Goon look set for another high ladder spot after a sound 19-point away victory over Longwarry on Saturday.
While there was plenty of pressure in patches and kicks were often hard to come by, the game never rose to any great heights.
The Goon’s victory was aided by the home side’s sloppy and poor decision making and far too many fumbles in the first half.
The Goon hit the ground running with a goal by Brad Jones in the first minute before tempers flared after speedy Crow Blair Weller was meted out some rough treatment, awarded two consecutive 50-metre penalties and a goal that levelled the scores.
Thereafter, the Goon midfield took control and helped the visitor’s race to a 24-point lead at quarter time which it extended to 33 points midway through the second term before the Crows rallied and began to peck away, making inroads into the deficit.
Goon youngster Brodie Howe sparked the visitors early, coach Clint Williams led by example and was outstanding in the first term, winning plenty of contested ball and capped of a fine quarter with a wonderful 50-metre long bomb goal in time-on.
Brenton Cowell, Matt Wade and Luke Dore all worked hard and chimed in with many crucial first-quarter disposals to set up the Goon’s victory.
Longwarry forward pocket Luke Serong proved hard to pin down in the second quarter and troubled the Goon defence with his quick leads and sure hands and two goals.
However, every time the Crows threatened Nar Nar Goon had all the answers.
The home side took comfort by winning the last two quarters, but never really got back on terms after the first quarter.
Blair Weller, who returned to the club over summer, did well and offered plenty of run and carry from the half-back flank, wingman Brody Rundell, after a quiet start produced plenty of drive and Beau Ridgeway was at his determined best in and around the midfield.
In the absence of Ken Towt, who tore his hamstring last week, rugged defender Scott Hamilton held down centre half-back and looks set for a good season after he thwarted many attacks.
Andy McKenna and Brad Jose played disciplined games after being assigned tagging roles early in the game.
Star Berwick recruit George Gorozidis booted five goals with three coming late in the game, but his influence was reduced by Scott Haughton, who never let him out of his sight all game and affected a number of timely spoils.
The Goon had a good even spread of contributors.
The defence, led by Chris Adams and Haughton, proved hard to penetrate, feisty wingman Matt Slattery drove hard at the ball all game and on the other wing another youngster Adam Marchant pumped the ball forward on a regular basis in the second half.
Brad Jones worked tirelessly in the ruck and often gave The Goon runners first use of the ball.
Nar Nar Goon coach Clint Williams was pleased with the victory, but said he would not be happy until the team starts winning big games when the finals come around.
“It was good to beat a side that’s in the finals mix, go two zip up and get a game break on a likely finals contender,” he said.
Star Goon recruit Tom Hallinan withdrew from the selected side with a hamstring injury, while the Crows missed Royce and Alfie Ablett – both unavailable.
