Sport
6 August, 2024
Carisbrook hold on for much-needed win
CARISBROOK 9.6 (60) def NAVARRE 7.8 (50)
For the first time in six matches, Carisbrook are back on the winners’ list, but had to survive a fierce comeback from Navarre to win by 10 points at Carisbrook Recreation Reserve.
The Redbacks were able to dictate the pace of play for much of the day, starting with the first term, which saw them score five goals to one to take a 25-point cushion into the first change.
Navarre were looking to get back into the game in the second term, and despite getting a foothold on the scoreboard with two goals for the term, every challenge was being answered by the Redbacks, and it meant that it was a 24-point ball game at the main break.
The third quarter was a struggle, with Carisbrook enjoying good looks inside 50, but weren’t quite able to finish it off on the scoreboard. Nevertheless, the Redbacks were able to increase their lead with the only goal of the term through William Cain to turn for home up by 30 points.
Navarre’s season was very much on the line in the final term, and it was Sam Rickard who provided a spark as he made himself the key target. For a second week in succession, he would kick four goals, as Navarre reduced the margin to under two goals late in the piece.
However, that was as close as the Hoppers would get, with Carisbrook’s first three quarters setting the groundwork to score a much-needed victory.
Anden Lever worked hard for Carisbrook and was named as their best player, while Matt Bilton and Tom Gardam were pivotal through the midfield. Darcy Bond and Andrew Toan provided grunt down back, while Ricky Pearson also provided some creativity up forward alongside Dean Chester, who finished with three goals.
For Navarre, Sam Walker and Jayden Fowkes were their best players, while Daniel Reading, Rickard, Joel McNaughton and Jacob Dunn were also named in the Hoppers’ best.