Another loss for WA U18s

WA are in danger of going winless in this year’s AFL under-18 championships after suffering a 62-point loss to Vic Country at Fremantle Oval today.

Vic Country were never seriously troubled by the home side, who fought hard at the ball but were simply outclassed.

The 14.13 (97) to 5.5 (35) result was WA’s fourth straight loss in this year’s championships, with the daunting task of facing both Victorian sides in Victoria in the final two games awaiting them next week.

Crafty half-forward Jack Lonie was the driving force behind Vic Country’s win with four goals from 24 disposals, with Jordan Cunico, Darcy Parish, Joe Maishman and Darcy Tucker also hugely influential.

Swan Districts midfielder Connor Blakely marked his return from a hamstring injury with 25 disposals and six clearances for WA in a timely reminder of his class.

Jared Hardisty continued his impressive carnival with another 24 disposals through the midfield, while defenders Dylan Winton and Francis Watson were also solid in the face of repeated Vic Country attacks.

Vic Country came into the game in form after a huge win over rivals Vic Metro last week and it was clear from the outset they were going to be a tough match-up for the struggling WA side.

Aaron Wilson kicked the first goal of the game within five minutes and after Daniel Butler, Parish and Lonie added their names to the goal-kickers list the lead was 29 points in the visitors’ favour.

WA fought back briefly in the second term with goals to potential top-five draft pick Jarrod Pickett and AIS-AFL squad member Sam Bevan but the skill and pressure of Vic Country was overwhelming.

A 35-point lead at half-time blew out to 62 by the end of the game in a performance which has given Vic Country every chance of taking home the title in their home State next week.

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