Rooster’s run riot on undermanned Burra

North Ballarat 12.14 (86) defeated Sebastopol 7.12 (54)

THE Roosters have announced themselves as premiership contenders with a commanding thirty-two-point victory against an undermanned Sebastopol last Saturday at Mars Stadium

Captain Simon McCartin was the star of the show with his high possession game the catalyst North’s third victory of the season in the McDonalds Ballarat Football Netball League.

Along with the skipper, Collingwood VFL-Listed swingman Sam Glover made his senior debut for the club and was influential in the victory.

When asked about Glover, Club President Leon Jones said, “It’s great when you have someone like Sam who played juniors for us, won a couple of premierships there and then went away and followed his dream to play footy and he now has come back and brings a level of professionalism to our group.”

Glover may be recalled by the Pies after his performance on the weekend but no doubt he will always be welcomed with open arms by North Ballarat.

“He loves playing here and we would love to have him here 100 per cent of the time, but we understand that he enjoys playing for Collingwood as well and hope can continues to remain on their list for as long as possible” Jones said.

North got the jump on the Burra with a three-goal opening term with superstar spearhead Josh Chatfield showing glimpses of why has regarded the early favourite for this year’s Henderson Medal.

The Burra did respond in the second term with Lachie Cassidy leading the way in the midfield and livewire Michael Powell booting two second quarter goals to pinch the lead midway through the term.

However, a hamstring injury to Mick Lockyer on the brink of the half time left the door open for North with late goals to Joey Symons and Tom Hotchin giving the Roosters a ten-point lead going into the major break.

As the clouds rolled in for the second half both sides missed golden opportunities to take ascendency with the reliable Chatfield, and Sebastopol’s Luke Kiel, both missing set shots for their respective sides in the third quarter.

North were able to dominate the game with ruck trio, Cam McCallum, Darcy McEldrew and Jonathan O’Brien, getting on top of Sebas debutant, Sam Hill to retain a 10-point lead at the final break.

The final term from start to finish was all North Ballarat with a six to three goal last quarter capped off with two impressive majors from Roosters small forward Sam Artz.