Tara Murray
Werribee got home in a heartstopper to remain undefeated after two rounds of the Victorian Football League.
Werribee headed up to Queensland to face Southport on Saturday and was able to come away with the points, 9.8(62)-8.11 (59).
Werribee coach James Allan said it was nice to come back home with the four points in their pocket.
“We got there in the end,” he said. “We certainly can play better than that and we didn’t play anywhere near our best.
“We weren’t overly happy with how we played and we have some work to do.
“They are a very good side and we were happy to get the points and win when we weren’t at our best.”
Werribee started well and led by four goals at quarter time, before trailing by nine points at the main break.
The margin was four points at the final break.
It meant Werribee had a task ahead of it in the final quarter.
“We were kicking into a strong breeze,” he said. “ We were able to handle the pressure better than they did.
“And we were able to scratch out a win in the end.”
Allan said the calibre of the group was on show with how they were able to handle the pressure late in the match.
“Our guys were pretty clear and able to execute it really well.”
Sam Paea, Harry Grintell and Hudson Garoni kicked two goals each for Werribee.
Dom Brew had 30 possessions to lead the way with Nick Hayes having 28,
Allan said it was some of their leaders that led from the front again.
“Nathan Cooper in defence was outstanding,” he said. “Dom Brew went to their captain and did what he does every week.
“Nick Hayes on the wing was good as was Bior Malual and Hudson and Sam gave us some targets. Sam Conway in the ruck gave us a good contest.”
Werribee has a bye this weekend with the VFL representative game against a South Australian National Football League representative team.
Werribee had a competition-high eight players named in the initial squad which will be reduced this week.
Allan said they were hoping to have as many of the eight as possible in the squad.
Brew is one confirmed starter having been named captain of the side.
Allan said it was pretty special for Brew to hold that role.
“It’s a great reward for Dom,” he said. “What he has been able to do as a leader of our team and to get that recognition outside of our club.
“He’s really proud and we’re proud of him.”
Allan said they would let the rest of the group have some time at their local clubs.
“We have this break and then our first home game,” he said. “Some will go back and play local football.
“There’s the opportunity to go back to their local clubs and get them away from our environment.”
Werribee’s next match is April 13 against Richmond at Avalon Airport Oval. Richmond is also 2-0 after the first two rounds.
