Emotional Kangas triumph

North Albany have bolstered their premiership credentials with an emotionally charged 42-point victory against Royals at Centennial Stadium on Sunday.

The Kangas dedicated the win to former player Paul Barnett, who died suddenly last Friday.

After a tight first half, the Kangas broke the game open in the third quarter, kicking four goals to none, before finishing ahead 14.8 (92) to 7.8 (50). The victory leaves the Lions one game clear of the Kangas and Mt Barker with five fixtures remaining in the season.

The Lions jumped out of the blocks to start the game with two quick goals including a brilliant check-side snap from Tom Baldwin before the Kangas fired back with the next four to take a nine-point lead at quarter-time.

It was goal-for-goal in the second quarter as the Kangas held a 10-point buffer going into the main break.

Harry Broomhall’s goal late in the second quarter became the Lions’ last major until the 20-minute mark of the last quarter as the Kangas piled on seven unanswered goals to cruise to a comfortable victory.

Kangas coach Craig Dew said it was an impressive win for his side given the circumstances.

“I was really pleased with the way they played given it was such an emotional day for the club,” he said.

“Once we sorted out our balance in the second half I thought we got on top.”

Luke Cameron finished with four goals, while Jesse Wynne was dangerous up forward all day and kicked three goals. Jack McPhee and Matt Orzel stood up for the Kangas, with Lachy O’Shea also providing good support.

Lions’ Dave Parker gave his side plenty of run, while Broomhall kicked three goals and loomed as the only real threat in their forward line.

Lions coach James McRae lamented his side’s effort.

“They’ve had the wood over us for four or five years now,” he said.

“There was a complete lack of effort from our guys.”