Undermanned Reserves lose in blustery conditions
Andrew Thomson
An undermanned Western Magpies Reserves outfit were defeated by PBC Lions by 50 points on Saturday in difficult conditions.
With five key players called up for senior selection covering injury and unavailability, and despite the inclusion of 2014 B&F Jadan Morton - the Reserves were always going to be up against it against and older, more experienced lineup.
Kicking against a 5 goal breeze in the first quarter, they matched the Lions reasonably well going into quarter time just 3 goals down, but then in the 2nd quarter kicking with the wind at their backs the Pies were outscored by 4 goals - making the 2nd half challenge a tough one. Only 3 goals were kicked by either side in the 2nd half, making the 2nd quarter lapse the key difference between the two sides.
Several youngsters stepped out and helped out, and their effort was exceptional - but the home team held a strong physical advantage and experience in windy conditions was a telling factor.
Best players for the Magpies were Gabe McKinnon, continuing his consistent form, midfielder Matt Green and 16 year old Riley Easton. Brodie Easton provided good support for his younger brother and young half back Matt Mazarolle had a good day continuing his development in his first senior season.
Jadan Morton worked hard in the ruck and around the ground in his first outing in 2015, but coach Quentin Johnson was left to lament once bad quarter again letting the Pies down in an otherwise good performance.