The Courier |
East Point came from behind against Ballarat to claim a memorable 23-point victory in a Ballarat Football League Anzac Day classic at the Eastern Oval yesterday.
The Kangaroos trailed at every change, but showed greater hunger and desire in the final term, kicking eight goals to two to run over the top of the Swans.
The final-quarter performance of the home side perfectly embodied the intensity and fighting spirit of the Anzacs.
East Point coach Dan Jordan was a clear best-on-ground with seven important goals, leading the way for his charges to make their final-quarter burst.
Jayden Hind was impressive across half-forward for the victors, while Nick Hind also performed well.
Jordan was pleased with the spirit his charges showed.
“It took a while for us to get going,” Jordan said.
“The confidence was lost a little on last week, but they stuck at it and showed a bit of spirit.
“It’s good to bounce back from last week.
“This club runs on confidence and when everyone is up and about hopefully the wins can start to flow.”
Jordan was particularly happy with the resilience shown by his side, to run over the top of the Swans in the last quarter.
The match began as a free-flowing affair, with the defensive pressure of both sides lacking in the opening stages.
The Swans got the early jump on the Roos, with East wasting their opportunities and not scoring until the 23-minute mark of the opening term.
An arm wrestle ensued for the second and third terms, with East slowly clawing its way back into contention.
With just 11 points separating the two, the stage was set for an epic final term.
Questions were raised as to who exactly would stand up for their side.
Unsurprisingly, it was Jordan who again stood up, kicking the opener for the Roos, and getting them within five-points of the lead.
And then, finally, after a long arm wrestle for the lead, the inspirational Jordan kicked his seventh for the match to give his team the lead for the first time halfway through the final term.
From that point on the Kangaroos gained control of the match, showing plenty of spirit to outscore their opponent by six goals, and mark a telling win.
