An unchallenged first-half showing from Brisbane has proven enough to overcome Sandringham this afternoon at Wilson Storage Trevor Barker Beach Oval, with the Lions securing a 25-point win despite a late fightback from the home side.
Brisbane shot out of the gate early, outclassing the Zebras to enter the main break with a 58-point lead. ven though a much-improved second-half performance from Sandringham repaired the early damage, the visitors still cruised to a 13.10 (88) to 17.11 (113) victory.
The Lions opened up a game-high lead of 64 points after kicking the opening goal of the third term, with the Zebras struggling to transition outside of their own half before kicking 11.6 to 5.3 to slice the margin at the final siren.
Jack Bytel (27 disposals, seven tackles, 13 clearances) was superb in the middle in an eye-catching display, with his contested and clearance work particularly impressive throughout the contest, as Ryan Byrnes (25 disposals, seven tackles, seven clearances) produced a strong performance in an outside role.
In-form ruckman Tom Campbell continued his fine run, winning the ruck battle against Darcy Fort to finish with 40 hit-outs, 20 disposals and 12 clearances.
Zebras vice-captain Goy Lok (one goal, 20 disposals, six marks) was among his side’s best, along with Leo Connolly (19 disposals) whose dash off half-back provided a spark for Sandringham.
VFL MATCH CENTRE: View all news, stats and videos from Round 21
Young forward Ollie Lowe (15 disposals, five marks) put it yet another imposing display up forward, kicking four goals – including three consecutive majors in the third term – and pushing up the field to provide an outlet for the Zebras. The 19-year-old’s recent haul has taken his goal-kicking tally to 12 in the past four matches.
Max Heath (one goal, nine disposals, three marks) backed up last week’s performance with another encouraging outing, with the youngster regularly competing in the aerial battles.
Speedster Dean Kent (11 disposals) kicked three in the final term, while Darragh Joyce (15 disposals, five marks) battled hard in the Zebras’ backline. Matthew Allison had a strong start to the contest before finishing with five disposals.
Sandringham will face Williamstown next Sunday afternoon in the final game of the home and away season at Williamstown Oval.
SANDRINGHAM 2.2 2.4 6.8 13.10 (88)
BRISBANE 7.1 11.8 15.9 17.11 (113)
GOALS
Sandringham Lowe 4, Kent 3, Milne 2, Carey, Heath, Lok, Zagari
Brisbane Fullarton, Lohmann, Smith 3, Coleman 2, Ashcroft, Lane, Robertson, Sharp, Triffett, Tunstill
BEST
Sandringham Bytel, Campbell, Lowe, Byrnes, Lok, Connolly
Brisbane Ashcroft, Robertson, Lohmann, Smith, Fullarton, Coleman, Triffett
