AJAX outstanding again
AJAX has continued its dominant start to 2014 with a convincing 15.11 (101) to 6.10 (46) win over Mazenod at Gary Smorgon Oval on the weekend.
AJAX has continued its dominant start to 2014 with a convincing 15.11 (101) to 6.10 (46) win over Mazenod at Gary Smorgon Oval on the weekend.
The Jackas’ second large victory of the season – their first at home – sees them sit second on the Premier B grade ladder, only two percentage points behind top-of-the-table University Blues.
Warren Steinberg returned to his classy best in the midfield, picking up over 30 possessions and pushing for- ward for two goals, while Brad Caplan also proved to be a crucial link-up player.
David Fayman secured his second consecutive bag of five majors and fellow tall forward Jake Lew slotted three, while skipper Nick Marks and young gun defender Daniel Cohen – who played his best game for the sen- ior team – quelled a number of opposition entries into the 50 and provided great run out of defence.
AJAX got off to a flying start when they kicked four goals to one to take a handy 20-point buffer into the first break.
The hosts kept up their momentum in the second term, and despite losing back-up ruckman Michael Shafar to injury, they maintained control of possession to blast another three goals to one.
An off-the-ball hit on Rubin Winograd sent the home crowd into hysterics, but it was the spirited Jackas who had the last laugh, taking a 32-point lead into half time.
AJAX remained resolute in defence after the interval, with Mazenod lifting its intensity and piling the pressure on the hosts defence.
But the defenders withheld the onslaught and the Jackas hit back with two goals on the counter-attack.
If not for several dubious umpiring decisions, AJAX would have been able to extend its 39-point buffer at the final break.
It was a nervy start to the last quarter, with the visitors showing signs of a comeback by kicking the opening goal.
However, AJAX rallied and piled on another six goals to two to put the result beyond doubt.
The Reserves recorded their first win of the year, smashing Mazenod 82-27 with Geoff Measy and Luke Peters combining for six majors.
The Under 19s were also ruthless in a 117-35 trouncing of Marcellin, while the Thirds remain winless after a 20-point loss to St Kevins.
AJAX plays Old Haileybury at 2pm on Saturday, April 26 at PrincesPark, Caulfield (Melway:68 B6).
ASHLEY SHENKER
Photo: Mark Feldy
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