Hoppers Crossing produced its most complete performance of the season in a 92-point hammering of Altona in Western Region Football League division 1 at Hogans Road Reserve on Saturday.
The Warriors have been slow starters this season but made amends with a five goals to nil opening term with a strong breeze at their backs, laying the platform for a dominant display.
The Warriors rammed home their advantage in the second quarter, booting six goals to two into the wind to take an unassailable 58-point lead into half-time.
Warriors coach Steven Kretiuk said that after poor starts in three games, his side needed to make a statement.
“Even though we had a five-goal wind, I thought we got off to a good start and kept momentum going from there,” he said.
“That second quarter was one of the best quarters of footy we’ve played all year.
“Our run from behind the footy, our drive and our ball use into a pretty strong wind was really good. To come in at half-time nine goals up was obviously pleasing.”
Hoppers Crossing midfielder Reece Miles was best-on-ground against his former club.
Miles was the target of some choice words from behind the fence and he responded the best possible way.
“He was copping a bit of flak off the crowd,” Kretiuk said. “He was outstanding all day … his last two weeks are the reason why we got him. He’s been a driving force in the midfield with Matty Smith. They’ve both been outstanding.”
Adam Poland was scintillating for Hoppers Crossing with three goals, but it was not only his scoreboard impact that pleased his coach.
“His tackling and forward line pressure were outstanding,” Kretiuk said. “He was in the footy wilderness last year and wasn’t sure what he was going to do. He had a fantastic pre-season and that’s probably the best game I’ve seen him play.”
Most pleasing for the Warriors was the even spread of contributors, reflected in the 11 individual goalkickers, led by four to Jordan Mead.
“We could’ve easily fit 12 guys among our best,” Kretiuk said.
Hoppers Crossing will square off with newly promoted Wyndhamvale at Wyndham Vale South Reserve on Saturday.
While the Falcons were belted by St Albans on Saturday, Kretiuk has been impressed with their competitiveness since joining the competition.
“It’s good to see a team come up from second division competing well,” he said.
“We can’t afford to take the foot off the pedal and get complacent against anyone.
“If you do, you’re going to find yourself in a heap of trouble.”
