Roys rout Rovers, Jackers get vital win

Nick Armistead

AJAX claimed their fourth win of the season with a 20-point victory over Caulfield Grammarians at Glenhuntly Oval. An eight-goal second term did the damage for the home side as they clawed their way back from a 10-point quarter-time deficit to lead by 26 at the half. Despite outscoring the Jackers in the second half, the Fields were unable to claim victory and remain on two wins for the season. Nicholas Marks and Geoffrey Measy were the best for AJAX, while Tom Small flew the flag for the losing side.

Fitzroy continued their push for the top four with a 58-point win against the Hampton Rovers at Boss James Reserve. In a match where fifth played sixth on the ladder, the Roys did not look back after half-time, turning a 16-point margin into a near 10-goal win on the back of three Matthew Brown majors and a best-on-ground performance from Alister Green. It is the third win in a row for the Roys who continue to put pressure on those immediately above them on the ladder.

Following a 55-point loss to Old Brighton two weeks ago, Old Melburnians used their bye weekend rest to great effect, turning their fortunes around with a 64-point win over Mazenod. A nine goal to nil first half set up the win for the Redlegs, with Al Armstrong leading the way with six goals of his own. Mazenod came to the party in the second half, kicking seven goals to eight, but the damage had already been done. The loss leaves the struggling side sitting eighth on the ladder with only three wins, while the Redlegs climb above Brighton and into third position.

The match of the round between St Bedes/Mentone and Old Brighton failed to live up to expectation as the Tigers ran out 38-point winners at Brindisi Street Oval. After a tight first half, a five goal to nil third quarter put the nail in the Tonners’ coffin as they were unable to recapture the form shown in their Round 8 win over Old Melburnians. Simon Richards, Paul Wintle and Luke Velluto were the best for the Tigers, while Marcel Bruin showcased his class in a best-on performance for the losing side.

St Kevins Old Boys once again proved they are the team to beat in 2015 with a gargantuan 149-point win against the Parkdale Vultures at TH King Oval. Stephen Gilham snagged five majors for SKOB, while Jason Salopek chipped in with four of his own. Three games clear at the top of the table, SKOB continue to impress on their way to the minor premiership, while the loss sees Parkdale slip to last on the ladder with a subpar percentage of 62.59.