Border Mail |
ALEX Marklew turned in a best-on ground performance on debut as Wangaratta Rovers got back to its winning ways against Corowa-Rutherglen on Saturday.
Marklew, who recently turned 17, kicked a game-high four goals and had the football on a string as the Hawks pummelled the Roos by 90 points at John Foord Oval.
Marklew, son of multiple premiership player Rick, had roughly 30 disposals, pulling down 10 marks in the process as he ran riot across half-forward for the Hawks.
Wangaratta Rovers’ coach Mick Caruso was thrilled with Marklew’s first game.
“Alex had a real impact,” Caruso said.
“We just told him to play on his instincts.
“When he gets the ball in his hands, something tends to happens.
“He’s been playing terrific football and we thought we’d give him a go.
“He was up to it, just like Cody Schutt has been.
“We’re very pleased to have them in the team.”
Saturday’s victory was a timely return to form for the Hawks, who were left reeling following their shock 43-point loss to Wodonga the weekend previous.
Ryan Stone played his best game for the season and gave the Hawks a target in attack.
Sam Carpenter, meanwhile, continues to get better with more game-time under his belt and was the most influential midfielder on the ground.
“It was a really good confidence boosting win to get the guys up and about again,” Caruso said.
“We faded a little bit in the last quarter.
“But it was probably the closest four-quarter performance we’ve had for the year.”
Things are looking up for the Hawks, who will regain star midfielders Jamie Sheahan and Sam Caruso from injury after the break.
Rovers host Lavington in a top-three shaping battle at W.J. Findlay Oval following this week’s general bye.
