Narre Warren’s under-18 side celebrates their premiership win over Berwick.
By Mark Gullick
SPURNED by last year’s grand final defeat, Narre Warren completed its brilliant season with a comprehensive 63-point win to secure the under-18 premiership.
The Magpies recovered from a slow start to blitz the Wickers in the final three terms.
Berwick’s Jake Weightman kicked the opening goal after a 10-minute struggle and two further goals gave the young Wickers an imposing start.
Narre Warren had plenty of chances in the opening term, but was wayward in its kicking for goal.
The Magpies’ accuracy woes continued in the second term, but the sheer volume of attacking yielded six goals from 12 attempts, resulting in a seemingly unassailable lead of 35 points at half-time.
Narre Warren’s dominance of the second term was typical; its form this year has been outstanding.
The Magpies kicked against the wind in the third term and added 3 goals to 0 to ensure victory.
Berwick persisted and the match became a gritty affair in the final term, but it was too late for the Wickers.
Dylan Quirk dominated the match and was awarded the best-on-ground award.
His classy performance shone above any other player on the field.
He received excellent support from vice-captain and midfielder Nick Lang, the classy Ricky Bevan, defender Tait Sabec, the rangy Brandon Mather and Ben Carter in the back half.
As it has done all year, Narre Warren benefited from a total, even team performance.
Billy Athanasopoulos booted 3 goals.
Berwick was served by the elusive, prime mover Weightman, finals star Jayden Joyce, defender Ben Pickering, the imposing Bryce Rutherford, the nimble Jack Opteynde and senior regular Callum Rutherford.
