Round 9 – Match Report

Fitzroy 26.11.167  def  Balwyn 2.11.23

Goals: Zander 14, McGee 7, Dylan, Dom 2, Ramon 1

Best: Zander, Hugh, Dom, Jordan, McGee, Hoddy

Alexander Croft became a Fitzroy legend last weekend after kicking a record-breaking haul of fourteen goals in just over an hour of football. His phenomenal return of 14.2 was enough to secure the teenager a spot in the club's record books, with his nine majors in the first two quarters one of the best individual first-half efforts in recent time.

It was a perfect game by the tall-forward who despite taking his season tally to 39 from eight games, remains out of the YJFL representative side. Dominating in the air and showing his ability to convert while on the run, Zander destroyed the opposition's backline while securing the five-votes and an unprecedented game rating of eleven out of ten.

It was a sweet victory for the boys in Blue and Red who in turn kicked the highest team score in Brown division this season. Up by four goals at the first change, Fitzroy slammed home ten goals to none in the second putting the game well and truly out of the Tigers reach.

The home side performed commendably in the third stringing together a couple of quick goals, but once again struggled into the wind as an eight goal to none final quarter onslaught ensured Fitzroy's biggest winning margin of recent years.

Hugh Lanphier-Walsh played his best game for the year, making full use of his time on the wing and using his pace to advantage. Assisted by the ever-courageous Jordan Batten the boys added another dimension to the already strong midfield formation.

Dom Pound-Palmieri was once again at his typical best, as was Justin Galligan and skipper James Hodson who's aerial marking ability can not be underestimated.

Despite his size Hoddy proved that even the club's littlest players can still spoil and take a solid grab, with the little maestro continuing to dominate centre clearances.

James McGee was also at best, a lazy five goals at the long break turning into seven by the game's end. His versatility at both ends of the ground has proved most beneficial in recent weeks, as has his eye for goal especially in contested situations.

Dylan Patcas was also dangerous when up forward, kicking two in the second half, while little Ramon's snap from deep in the forward pocket, his first in club colours, sealed the side's biggest win of season 2006.

 Cam Nation