WILLIAMSTOWN survived a late scare to run out six-point winners against Collingwood in round five of the VFL on Sunday.
After trailing by nine points at three quarter time, the Seagulls started the final term in a blaze of glory, kicking six goals to push away to what appeared to be a match-winning lead with just minutes remaining.
However, three late goals to the Magpies in quick succession closed the gap to just one goal deep into time on.
What followed were two minutes of enthralling football as the Magpies continued to press while Williamstown’s backline stood tall.
After winning a free kick on the boundary line, Collingwood forward Alan Didak had a chance to tie the game but his kick fell short in the goal square.
Soon after the siren sounded and the Williamstown players were able to breath a sigh of relief.
Seagulls coach Peter German was pleased his young side could hold on for the win.
“We had 13 of the players who played today, played in the development competition in round one,” German said.
“We are probably at the moment in a spate of injuries. The Western Bulldogs have got a big list and we have sort of grown our list. We had three withdrawals this morning with Grant, Cordy and Sherman. They are three quality players who you are taking out of the side.
“In the end, it got pretty close but we were thrilled to just get the four points to be honest.”
When the game was up for grabs, Leigh Williams worked hard on the Seagulls forward line, booting four goals and was seemingly in every forward 50 contest in the last quarter.
He was well supported by Willie Wheeler who was named best a field while Josh Prudden was also solid.
For the Magpies, Caolan Mooney was lively up forward and finished the match with five goals.
Sunday’s result sees Williamstown move back into the VFL’s top four with a 3-2 win/loss record after five games.
This week the Seagulls will take on 12th placed Frankston.
