By David Nagel
Berwick has overcome some early inaccuracy in front of goal to remain undefeated and two games clear at the top of the ladder after an 86-point victory over Pakenham at Toomuc Reserve.
The Wickers had five more scoring shots than the Lions in the first term, but kept kicking points, leading 1.5 to 1.0 at quarter time.
The Lions opened in fine style with Liam Tyrrell getting his hands on the ball in the ruck, Stephen Morey presenting well at centre half forward, while Russ Lehman was getting a stack of the pill through the midfield.
Joel Laycock also had a great start in defence and when Damien Holmes kicked the first of the match, the Lions thoroughly deserved their lead.
But the Wickers’ class soon took control of the match and only some poor kicking at goal cost the visitors a handy lead at the first break. Jimmy Magner was the only Wicker to correctly hit the target in the opening term.
The Wickers continued in similar fashion in the second quarter, with Madi Andrews and Bryce Rutherford dominating around the ground but their forwards were unable to capitalise. The Wickers had 1.8 on the board before the goal-kicking began to improve.
Tim Gunn found too much room at a stoppage before emerging midfield-gun Jimmy Harrison slotted two quality finishes. A Brody Connelly snap, and a Magner mark and goal, gave the Wickers a 39-point lead at half time – and the four points safely tucked away.
The Lions matched the ladder-leaders in the third term before the Wickers rounded out their preparation for this week’s clash against Doveton with a 6.3 to no score final term.
Harrison continued a purple-patch of form, kicking three to join Connelly and Gunn as the leading scorers on the ground.
Michael Johnson was solid in defence for the winners while Andrews and Rutherford were joined by Reece Piper as their side’s prime movers.
Despite the 13-goal loss, the Lions are holding up okay at the minute.
Morey was once again effective, sharing his time between centre half forward and the ruck, while Jake Smith, Steve O’Bryan, Chris Cardona and Lehman gave the best midfield in the competition some serious headaches at times.
And Sam Blackwood, Laycock and Jarrod Theisz did well despite the constant supply into the back half.
The Lions make the short trip to Officer this week while Wickers host the Doves.
