Ocean Grove has some work to do after being outpointed by an impressive Newcomb on Anzac Day under lights at Grinter Reserve.
Newcomb started the game strongly, but the Grubbers got back into the contest and were three goals down going into the final break.
However, the Power finished strongly to win 15.11(101) to 8.9(57).
There was no doubting Ocean Grove’s effort. But it lacked a focal point up forward whereas Newcomb had one in Jack Duke, who booted five goals.
“The boys left nothing in the tank, and as a coaching group that’s our number one ask,” coach Dave Farrell said.
“As for the forward line, we’re definitely missing that focal point right now with Kye (Annand), Jai (Hale) and Nick (Bourke) all out of action and expect they will all have a big impact in the forward half when fit and playing again.”
Newcomb’s resurrection this season is there for all to see. The Power have a strong midfield and with Duke up forward, they could win more than they lose.
After a good win in round one, Grove has dropped three in a row and faces another one-and-three side in Queenscliff this Saturday.
“Queenscliff are one of those sides that can knock anyone off if you’re not on your game,” Farrell said.
“But we’re excited to be back on our deck – we love playing at home, it will be a massive pink day raising awareness and funds for BCNA and we feel like we owe our supporters a strong four-quarter performance. We’ll have a big week on the track and we’ll be ready.”
Ocean Grove was well served by its midfield, particularly Joe McDonald and Josh Lange, who kept putting their heads over the ball contest after contest.
“I thought our mids competed really well – clearances and contested footy were strengths on the day,” Farrell said.
“But forward of centre, we just didn’t make the most of our looks. Our connection going inside 50 needs work, and we’ll be training to that again during the week.”
Despite the wet and slippery conditions, Farrell said it was an honour to be able to play on Anzac Day.
“We spoke about it during the week and again before the game – what the day represents, the sacrifice, the mateship, and the opportunity to represent our club and community in that spirit,” he said.
“The boys really embraced it, and we felt privileged to be part of something special.”
With Grove’s reserves side having a win, there is competition for spots.
“We got through relatively unscathed but all quarters went over 35 minutes so we’ve effectively played a fifth quarter,” Farrell said.
“The boys will benefit from the extra day’s break. Our 12pm side is looking really good, our depth is great and we’ve got healthy competition for spots at the moment, which is exactly what you want.”
