UPDATE: Hoppers Crossing has triumphed over Spotswood in an emphatic victory, securing a place in the Western Football League division 1 semi-finals. The Warriors delivered a stunning performance, defeating Spotswood by 59 points at Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval on July 16, 2023, with a final score of 12.14 (86) to 3.9 (27).
The decisive win keeps Hoppers Crossing’s hopes for back-to-back premierships alive, as they prepare for a critical semi-final clash against Yarraville-Seddon. This matchup comes after Yarraville-Seddon’s recent defeat to Caroline Springs, heightening the stakes for both teams.
Coach Jared Polec expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “I was very pleased. The guys battled hard and minimized the impact of Spotswood’s initial run.” His squad demonstrated resilience, particularly after suffering four losses in the latter half of the season, including a defeat to Yarraville-Seddon.
Inspirational skipper Liam McMahon stood out with a best-on-ground performance, showcasing his leadership throughout the season. McMahon has been recognized among the team’s best players seven times this season, a testament to his impact on the field.
The Warriors displayed an impressive defensive strategy, limiting Spotswood to just one goal after the first quarter, a key factor in their commanding victory. Ryan Kitchen was pivotal in the forward line, netting four goals, while Tevyn Wanigasekera and Josh Pickess contributed significantly with three and two goals, respectively.
Reflecting on their upcoming semi-final, Polec noted the fierce rivalry brewing between Hoppers Crossing and Yarraville-Seddon. “I think they’ll be the heavy favorites going into this,” he cautioned, referencing a previous match where Hoppers lost by 26 points. “The question will be whether our guys are up for the challenge.”
As the Warriors gear up for this high-stakes encounter, the momentum from their recent performance could prove crucial. Fans and players alike are eager to see if Hoppers Crossing can replicate their success against Yarraville-Seddon, making this a must-watch match in the league.
With the semi-final set for Sunday, all eyes will be on Hoppers Crossing as they aim to harness their recent form and advance further in the finals series.
