By Trevor Jackson
Kalangadoo 18.18 (126) d Port MacDonnell 5.5 (35)
The long-awaited Mid South East football grand final rematch turned into a bit of a fizzer on Saturday, as Kalangadoo ran away with a big win over Port MacDonnell.
The Magpies stamped their authority on the contest right around the ground, with Michael Krieger again a big focal point up forward.
Krieger finished the day with five goals, while Brett Lindner (3), Patrick Davies (2) and Sam McManus (2) ensured the win.
As a result the Magpies sit just a small percentage margin out of top spot, trailing Hatherleigh at the pointy end of the ladder.
Magpies coach Kevin Stark it was simply “another good win”.
However, the victory was more impressive considering the outs due to Covid and other scenarios.
Stark accepted the Demons had their own issues with player numbers but the skill of the Magpies showed through in the end.
In fact, Kalangadoo kicked seven straight majors in the opening term to set the scene and Port MacDonnell was forced to play catch-up football all day.
“I thought the first half was hard going,” Stark said.
“They zoned off on us really well and I think we played into their hands in that first half, then we changed things up a bit and got going.”
One focus was on keeping Tim Sullivan quiet up forward, with the spearhead Demon a huge focal point.
He was kept to just two goals throughout the game but Stark was quick to point out the whole back six stood tall.
“We had six out but it really showed where our depth was at,” Stark said.
“The six blokes we had to bring up played really well and that meant down back we had an exceptionally strong back six.
“I think if you keep some one like him to a couple of goals you are very happy.”
Likewise up forward it was the magpies who were on top, due in no small part to the smarts and skills of Krieger.
“Michael Krieger was really good again but our whole forward six worked well together,” Stark said.
“Everyone adapted well to the changes – some of the forwards play a borderline sacrificial role to help other forwards which is really pleasing.”
Names such as Josh L Rocca, Sam McManus and Tye McManus also helped guide the Magpies to another strong victory, with plenty of run out of the back half to push forward.
Stark said La Rocca in particular played a vital role.
“It was big having Mitch Lowe out, who provides so much run and skill off the half back line,” Stark said.
“So does Josh but I guess it put a bit more pressure on him to take it to another level.
“He is just very good at breaking the line and is unbelievably quick and hard to tackle.
“He had a cracking game.
“I thought he played well last year and I think with a full season with everyone in the team, he has gone to another level.”
