GSFL 2024: Strong four-quarter display puts North Albany to the sword as Mt Barker celebrate Pav’s big day

Mt Barker coach Brad Hook lauded his side’s “four-quarter effort” after the Bulls bounced back onto the winners’ list with a resounding 123-point result over North Albany on Saturday. After last weekend’s disappointing loss to the Tigers that snapped a four-game winning streak, the Bulls welcomed back Mitch and Zach Jackson and coach Brad Hook, all from suspension. The Bulls were every bit of their punishing best with a 13-goal to two second half to waltz to a 24.19 (163) to 6.4 (40) victory at Sounness Park. Ashley Wallam (eight goals) and Zach Jackson (seven) filled their boots in the sensational win, with relentless inside-50s putting the Kangas defences under severe pressure. The Bulls swarmed the Kangas with their ravenous tackle pressure and brutal game style which has become a trademark of their season so far, forcing turnovers in crucial areas before punishing their opponents on the scoreboard. “It was certainly the best full four quarters we’ve played this season that’s for sure,” Hook said. “We had seven inclusions on the weekend which is the most I’ve ever had as a coach. “I was a bit worried having that many changes and how we would play. But it was just really nice to see that everyone really gelled straight away together. “We are a big believer in if we can have good pressure on the man then that’s going to force turnovers and that sort of stuff, and it’ll help our backline out, so it’s a big part of our game plan.” The result handed resolute defender Lee Pavlovich a winning milestone, as he was chaired from the ground after playing his 175th league game to earn life membership with the Bulls. Pavlovich and fellow defender Darcy Wallinger worked in tandem as a human fort in front of the Kangas’ forward line, rebounding tirelessly across half-back as Brent Parsons thrived in the middle. “He (Pavlovich) is a really good football player, a fantastic bloke and comes from a great family that does a lot for our football club. . . and deserves every accolade that he gets,” Hook said. “Zach’s (Jackson) first half was absolutely phenomenal, I don’t know how many touches he had in the first half but he did kick four goals in the third quarter as well.” The Bulls have discovered a gem in Wallam, who impressed in only his third game for the club and has provided excellent cover for injured key forward Sam Lehmann. Wallam booted three of their seven opening-quarter goals as the Bulls charged to a 37-point lead at the first change. The Kangas showed resilience in the second with Barry Roberts thumping through two and Jyrin Woods one, but the hosts extended their lead to 47 points at the long break. After half-time, the Bulls powered past the Kangas again, fuelled by an exceptional quarter from star midfielder Zach Jackson who kicked the first four goals of the half, leading his team to seven unanswered majors. The floodgates remained open in the last with the Bulls booting seven goals including one from the boot of Pavlovich on his big day, drawing teammates from all over the ground to celebrate. Kangas skipper Nick Barrow provided respite with his skilful line-breaking runs, while Kobi Keen’s impressive work rate was a focal point for the visitors. Barry Roberts finished with a team-high two goals and Drew Willcocks competed hard in the ruck all day.