Young Kangas see off persistent Pies

North Albany coach Craig Dew says he is relishing leading a younger side after the Kangas were forced to overcome a much improved Denmark-Walpole to the tune of 41 points at Collingwood Park on Saturday.
The margin, however, flattered the Kangas who, despite leading at every change, appeared rattled in the first half against the Magpies who looked nothing like the side which succumbed to Albany in the opening round.
Towering forward Shayne Zanetti relished space and constant delivery as Magpies’ top-end talent shone with quicker ball movement, catching the Kangas defence off guard. Uncharacteristic turnovers continued to play into the more experienced Magpies’ hands but the visitors missed their opportunities.
The lead changed hands four times in a see-sawing third term.
Kangas full-forward Daniel Parker eventually found space to boot his first goal and push the margin to a game-high 14 points but the Magpies immediately responded through Tyler Stone, Jared Lane and co-coach Ryan Gaerth to lead by three points.
A goal to Anthony Coyne ensured the Kangas led by four points at the final change.
From there it was all the home side who booted seven goals to one to eventually shake the impressive Magpies.
A relieved Dew was full of praise for his youngsters, led by Talon Delacey who finished with four goals which included three in the first half.
Dew said filling the void left by experienced midfielders Matt Orzel, Jack McPhee, Ray Padfield and Grant Corcoran was an exciting challenge.
“Honestly I thought the kids were amazing. There is a lot to like…they are the future,” he said.
“It’s a really nice challenge to have. We have always had this experienced team and you know what you get but I’m actually enjoying the kids again because they are so exciting.”
Magpies coach Ryan Gaerth said mounting injuries including the loss of Brody Hickey (shoulder) hampered his side’s chances after missing their opportunities in front of goal in the first half.
“We didn’t have the rotations in the end and lacked a bit of fitness and it showed,” he said.
“They’re a bit fitter and probably stuck to their structures better.”
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