Majak Daw had 16 hit-outs, took six marks and kicked three goals for Werribee on Saturday. 81617 Picture: DAMIAN VISENTINI
By MICHAEL ESPOSITO
WERRIBEE is the first team to advance to the Foxtel Cup grand final after thrashing Queensland’s Morningside by 71 points at the Gabba on Saturday.
The Tigers were somewhat disorganized in the first half, but were unstoppable in the second half to claim the 16.15 (111) to 6.4 (40) win.
Werribee was tipped to win comfortably, but Morningside took it up to the away side and was just 14 points down at the main break.
But the Tigers blew the game open in the third and booked a showdown with either Port Melbourne or Claremont, who will play each other at Pattersons Stadium on Saturday.
“It was a tough affair early, we were under a little bit of pressure,” Werribee coach Scott West said.
“Their pressure around the footy was terrific early but as the game wore on we broke it open and had a good result in the end.”
West said the warmer conditions tested his players, who have been accustomed to playing in bitterly cold weather.
“It’s not much of a change in temperature, it was about five or 6C warmer, but when you’re coming from the cold winter in Melbourne and going up there it is difficult but they handled it well and got through it.”
Cameron Pedersen staked his claim to a North Melbourne recall with 22 disposal and two goals, while Ben McKinley kicked five goals for the Tigers.
“I think Pedersen’s putting his hand up every week. He’s around about the mark, and he’ll get an opportunity sooner rather than later I think.”
Majak Daw was solid in the ruck and showed his versatility with three goals, including a gem of a checkside.
Former Geelong Falcon Jordan Keras, who has played four senior games for Werribee this season, was among the Tigers’ best.
“He’s kid coming out of the under-18s, and every week he’s starting to get the feel of senior footy and bigger bodies around him so I think it’s a great experience for him playing alongside the likes of Pedersen and Majak Daw and Levi Greenwood in the middle. They’re professional footballers and probably where he aspires to get to.”
Werribee will take on Coburg in round 16 of the VFL this Sunday.
