In windy conditions, Sandringham comfortably defeated Frankston at Trevor Barker Beach Oval by 43 points. It took both teams some time to adjust to the uneasy weather conditions, however the Zebras’ strength prevailed over the Dolphins team, winning 12.17 (89) to 5.16 (46) as Nick Ciantar reports.
The Dolphins started well by kicking the first goal of the day through Jarryd Matheson. Brad Sykes started well for the Dolphins, playing across half back and in the midfield. It didn’t take long for the Zebras to reply, with Myke Cook kicking his first goal. The Zebras were inaccurate at goal in swirly conditions early on. The Zebras went into the first break with an 8 point lead through a late soccer style goal from Brett Peake.
The second quarter started very much like the first. Both teams struggled and there was no flow in the match. At the 8 minute mark, Cook kicked his second and the Zebras kicked 4 unanswered goals to keep the Dolphins to three behinds for the quarter. Sandringham had more of the ball inside their forward 50 and Frankston could not clear it past the Zebras press. Michael Sikora was dominant in the ruck, which set up Cook and Tom Ledger with many clearances. St Kilda player Arryn Siposs provided the highlight of the quarter kicking a 60m goal to set up a 35 point lead into the main break.
Both teams were equally matched in the third quarter but Frankston proved to be inaccurate in front of goal. They kicked two goals seven behinds and did not take full advantage of the then goal kicking end. Sandringham was able to hold off Frankston’s pressure and maintain a 33 point lead going into the final break.
The Dolphins gave their travelling fans a faint hope of victory, with Anthony Simpson kicking the first goal of the quarter to bring the margin down to 27 points. However the Zebras quickly replied with goals to Beau Wilkes and Cook and shut off any hope of victory for the Dolphins.
Sikora was one of the Zebras most influential on the day through his tap work in the ruck. He finished with 23 hit outs and 9 disposals and his work around the ground provided Sandringham with many more clearances than Frankston. Cook had another terrific game for the Zebras, finishing with 21 disposals, 4 tackles and 3 goals. He missed the last game against Bendigo (2 weeks ago due to the bye) and he did not miss a beat. Captain Beau Dowler was strong down back intercepting many Frankston inside 50’s. Jamie Cripps had a solid game on a half forward flank kicking 1 goal whilst also finishing with 21 disposals.
Kyle Martin was the best for Frankston, finishing with 32 disposals. Playing in the midfield and half forward, he created many chances for the Dolphins’ forwards. Khan Haretuku was forced to play in the ruck and was taken out of his normal forward position. He still played a good game finishing with 15 disposals and 17 hit outs but his presence in the forward line was sorely missed.
Sandringham was too strong in the blustery conditions and replied instantly when Frankston rallied. The Zebras’ depth in the midfield was too classy for the Dolphins team.
Sandringham meets Collingwood at Trevor Barker Beach Oval this Sunday at 2pm, whilst Frankston takes on Coburg at Mantello Holden Oval at 2pm on Saturday.
Photo: Dave Savell
Last Modified on 06/08/2012 21:25