Right: Ryan Cotter breaks free before driving ROC into attack late in Saturday’s thrilling win over Berwick.ROC seniors showed character and team spirit to come from behind and snatch a thrilling sixpoint win against old rivals Berwick on Saturday.
Trailing by three goals with only minutes left on the clock, the Kangaroos called on all their courage and will to win to take the four points in a close and entertaining game.
At various stages during the match ROC had the game won, then went to sleep and saw its substantial lead evaporate, only to claw its way back to snatch victory in the dying seconds with a great goal by Ben Tivendale from a set shot.
The Kangaroos had many good players, but Anthony Young was outstanding with his pace and ball skills while Sean Sierakowski worked tirelessly in the ruck against several opponents.
Berwick forward Ryan Donaldson was the standout player with 11 goals and ROC had no answer to his strong marking and excellent kicking, but in the end the more committed team won on the day.
Scores: ROC 17.14.116 d Berwick 16.14.110.
Goals – ROC: C. White 3, D. Blake, C. Williams, K. Dowsett, B. Tivendale 2, A. Young, T. White, M. Castricum, M. Moylan, C. Eagleton and J. Goodes, 1.
Best – ROC: Anthony Young, Sean Sierakowski, Michael Barker, Craig Eagleton, Clint Williams.
The Pakenham Hotel award went to Anthony Young and the Cardinia Hotel award was won by Sean Sierakowski.
@BT Sub Sport Gaz:RESERVES
Poor ball delivery and an inability to keep sustained pressure on their opposition cost the Kangaroos dearly in their local derby against Berwick.
ROC stayed with the more fancied Berwick side for three quarters, but fell away in the final term to lose by six goals.
Steve McIntyre had a good captain’s game and Sean Marchetti showed glimpses of the skills he is capable of, but in the end the poor delivery into the forward line prevented the Kangaroos from making the best of their opportunities.
Scores: Berwick 17.12.114 d ROC 11.9.75.
Goals – ROC: S. White 4, S. Marchetti 3, A. Jones 2, S. McIntyre, C. Tucker, 1.
Best – ROC: Steve McIntyre, Sean Marchetti, Peter Tucker, Brenton Cowell and Matthew James.
@BT Sub Sport Gaz:UNDER 18
ROC was again outclassed by a better opposition, but showed great endeavour against Berwick.
Neil Adams, back from a broken collarbone, showed speed and skill around the ball. Glen Marshall worked hard in the ruck all day and Gavin Staindl and Daniel McDonald did some good work while on the ball.
Adam Hobson played his best game for the season, showing determination and willingness to play to instructions.
Scores: Berwick 23.28.166 d ROC 2.1.13.
Goals – ROC: B. Emerson, D. Churchill.
Best – ROC: Daniel McDonald, Neil Adams, Gavin Staindl, Adam Hobson, Timmy Gray.
The Bubba’s Pizza Pakenham awards went to Adam Hobson, Gavin Staindl and Neil Adams.
