GSFL 2024: Albany move clear at the top after second triple-figure win over Denmark-Walpole for the season

A wayward Albany cemented top spot on the ladder after taking care of the winless Denmark-Walpole by 111 points at Retravision Stadium on Saturday. The Sharks again overcame inaccuracy in front of goal, which has marred their stellar start to the Great Southern Football League season, to defeat the Magpies 21.21 (147) to 5.6 (36). The last time the Sharks converted more goals than behinds was in round one against the same opponents when they won by 112 points. Despite their inaccuracy, the reigning premiers have now booted a triple-figure score on three separate occasions, lead the league in points for and hold the greatest percentage. Sharks assistant coach Roy Addis said while his team are aware of their inaccuracy, their total shots at goal is a sign their game plan is working. “We are aware of our inaccuracy and we’re working on it but we aren’t focusing on it,” he said. “We are getting significant forward-50 entries which shows our structures are working and it’s coming together. “Our inaccuracy has cost us and we need to finish off our work but our structures are working really well.” Star forward Brett Peake had a field day forward of centre booting a game-high six majors, extending his lead at the top of the Sean Plaisted trophy leaderboard. The hosts dominated from the opening bounce with five first-quarter goals to the Magpies’ one, before holding the visitors goalless in the third. The Sharks really turned the screws in the last quarter, booting nine goals from 15 scoring shots to round out a consummate home victory. Addis said his side’s fitness was a catalyst for their punishing victory and was pleased with their four-quarter effort. “Denmark fought hard but I think the last quarter where we kicked nine goals just showed the difference in fitness between the two sides,” he said. “Credit goes to the team for a full united effort and playing for the full four quarters,” he said. Isaac Baum (two goals) was superb for the home side while Brock Anning, Bryce Blaszkow, Taj Williams and Jack Day also served the winners well. Max Baker and Bailey Taylor were their other main avenues to goal with three majors each. Marlon Mastalerz, Banjo Watkins and Reagan Hutchinson fought hard for the visitors, while Tyler Stone (two goals) was as reliable as ever and was their only multiple-goalkicker. Magpies coach Brad Nisbett said it’s disappointing to receive another heavy defeat and they are exploring new ways to sustain their effort for longer periods. “We just need to find new ways to be more competitive, have higher energy and physicality,” he said. “At training it’s good but then we get to the game and it’s just not at the level required. “We looking at new pre-game warm-ups and other ways we can increase that energy before games.”