WA to Learn from First U18s MatchWednesday, June 5, 2024 - 1:51 PM

WA commenced their 2024 AFL National Championships – U18 Boys campaign on Saturday against the Allies in NSW.

The Black Swans opened the game with an early lead before the Allies evened the scores at the first break. 

While the second quarter was won by the Allies, WA bounced back after half time to score three goals to the Allies one and take a five-point lead into the last break.

U18s Head Coach Marc Webb praised his team for their performance.

“It is always an unknown with a group of players coming together from multiple clubs,” Webb said.

“There is a strong connection in the group, and want to work for each other, which is a positive.

“No doubt the intensity and pressure of the game was greater than what many of the boys had experienced previously. 

“We can learn a lot about skill execution under pressure.”

WA draft prospect Malakai Champion lead from the front, kicking two goals for WA.

Charlie Burke (19 disposals, 18 kicks, three tackles) and Luke Urquhart (21 disposals and seven tackles) were consistent through the midfield.

Webb also highlighted the efforts of his defenders.

“Our backs such as Darcy Petersen and Clancy Dennis were strong in the air, while Aiden Riddle competed strongly against a taller opponent in the ruck,” Webb said.

Webb has already moved his focus to WA’s clash with South Australia in Adelaide on Sunday June 16.

“We get to put the areas we need to work on into training and that started last night,” Webb said. 

“Players will have plenty of time to review their own games along with their line areas to help us fully prepare against South Australia.

“We can take the belief that if we bring the effort and pressure, we will give ourselves opportunities to win games.”

Sunday 2 June
Allies 10.10 (70)
Western Australia 7.8 (50)
At Blacktown, NSW