Box Hill defeated Geelong by 34 points, and in the Hawks’ opening game of the season, a number of players on the AFL roster had strong games.
Coach of the VFL, Zane Littlejohn, identified certain gains and improvements from Saturday’s match.
Littlejohn commented, “I was really impressed with how we responded, even though it was a slow start.”
“It’s great that we kicked eight goals in the last quarter to finish the game strongly.”
In addition, Littlejohn gave a few shout-outs to players from the VFL and reviewed every AFL-listed player who played on the day.
“Despite a slow start, I was really impressed with how we responded,” Littlejohn said.
“It’s great that we kicked eight goals in the last quarter to finish the game strongly.”
Littlejohn also examined every player on the AFL list who played that day and gave a few shout-outs to VFL players.
Seamus Mitchell (five marks, 24 disposals)
“In his own admission, Seamus had a poor first quarter, but I felt he was probably one of our best defenders that day,” He helped us offensively, was quite strong during the match, and had several pivotal moments as well as some significant bouts. For a little defender, two contested marks and 92% effectiveness is a fantastic return.
Jai Serong (five marks, 22 disposals)
“Jai Serong and Seamus were arguably our best defenders that day.” His offensive output has increased, and he is now incredibly dependable at his position. We had to move him across to Shannon Neale, who has some AFL experience. Jai gave up a lot of height and size in that match, but he did a great job finishing the job and really assisted in taking Neale out of the game, for which he deserves all the praise.
“He capitalized on his pressure by hitting the scoreboard once more. Right now, all we’re trying to do is streamline Sam’s game, and what’s so great about him is that he has contributed to that. We are merely attempting to highlight his strengths, which include his work rate, speed, and pressure tolerance; as a result, he will eventually be rewarded with the scoreboard. He performed some very astute and productive football, which is a fantastic comeback for him.
Bailey Macdonald (15 interceptions, 2 touchdowns)
Bailey was dependable throughout the match, even though it wasn’t his best performance. In one-on-one games, he did give up a couple of free kicks, but after the half, he regained his composure and began producing the quality run and carry that we know BMac is capable of. In the end, he just needs to occasionally be a little better with his contest work, but it’s fantastic that for his first full game back of the season, he was able to balance out some solid offensive and defensive moments.
“What a comeback this young man has made. With Cooper playing the first half and Sull playing the second, he and Cooper were essentially playing as one player during his one and only half of the game. He seemed strong and quick, and he exerted a ton of pressure and energy. Getting him through the game and getting some minutes in him was the most satisfying thing. Once that ball touched down inside 50, he became into a truly dangerous player. Sull made a fantastic comeback, and we are thrilled that he made it through unscathed. As time goes on, maybe we’ll be able to raise his minutes.
