Orzel all class as Kangas skip away to big win

North Albany powered to a comfortable 137-point win over Albany under lights to kick off round 3 of the Great Southern Football League at Collingwood Park on Friday night.

Played after the highly successful Great Southern Women’s Football League, the Kangas fielded a strong side in a rare night- time fixture and skipped clear after half-time on the way to their second win of the season.

Despite their wayward kicking for goal, the home side led by 19 points at half-time and then kicked six majors in the second term to open up a 45-point advantage by the main break.

After two pleasing performances to start the season, the Sharks continued to win their share of the ball around stoppages but began to be undone by the Kangas’ run and carry nearing half-time.

The second half was one-way traffic as polished ball movement going forward helped the Kangas score at will, kicking 16 goals to one on their way to a big victory, 25.17 (167) to 4.6 (30).

Star midfielder Matt Orzel was prolific in a performance that is sure to earn him three Kleemann Medal votes as he finished with three majors and a plethora of possessions.

Jacob Hobbs was again impressive for the winners, along with emerging midfielder Lachy O’Shea and Nick Barrow (two goals) while forward targets Luke Cameron and Taj Williams both finished with four majors each.

Ray Padfield finished the game with ice on his hamstring but coach Craig Dew said it was only precautionary and expected him to be fit to face Royals this Saturday.

Ruckman Stewart Davies was outstanding for the Sharks, especially around the ground against his former side while Zac Pearson was superb as their lead-up forward and Tait McLean worked hard throughout.

The sour point for the Sharks was the loss of Vince Augustson to injury, breaking his ankle and receiving concussion after a high bump from Orzel.