WA faces its biggest challenge so far at the 2024 Marsh AFL National Championships - U18 Boys when they host Vic Metro this weekend.
The state side approaches the match on a high after a convincing 67-point win over South Australia in Adelaide last Sunday.
Coach Marc Webb heaped praise on the group following the performance.
“We were pleased as it was a strong reward for effort for the players and they combined well as a team, so it’s pleasing to see the group build a strong connection,” Webb said.
“The result has reiterated that when we work hard, bring the effort, and play to our system we can play some very good football.
“We understand it is a step forward and gives us the opportunity to take on Vic Metro in a positive frame of mind.”
Attention in the lead up to Sunday’s game will focus on WA’s two key forwards Max Rohr and Kayle Gerreyn who combined for seven goals against the Croweaters.
“They were able to finish off some quality ball movement and both kicked goals off the back of pressure and follow up efforts which they did well,” Webb said.
“It does not need to be flashy, both competed and that will be what we ask of them again this week.
“We were able to improve our method around the contest which gave us some good outside ball.
“We probably missed a few entries we could have connected on so we will train that again this week.”
Mindful of the quality the Victorian line up, WA’s work in the middle of the ground will have a huge bearing on the result.
“Vic Metro have some quality midfielders, so our clearance and transition work need to be at a high level,” said Webb.
“We obviously need to reward players who are playing consistent football, so at this stage we’re looking to enter the match with minimal changes.”
WA plays Vic Metro at Optus Stadium from 10.45am on Sunday.
Coverage is on afl.com.au.
WA U18s Boys Team
No | Player Name |
1 | Cody Angove |
2 | Luke Urquhart |
3 | Malakai Champion |
5 | Will Hayes |
6 | Blake Kelly |
8 | Charlie Banfield |
10 | Austin van der struyf |
11 | Hamish Davis |
12 | Bo Allan |
13 | Jaxon Artemis |
16 | loch Mactaggart |
17 | max Rohr |
18 | Clancy Dennis |
19 | Koby Evans |
20 | Cody Curtin |
21 | Darcy Petersen |
23 | Charlie Burke |
24 | Fred Rodriguez |
26 | Kayle Gerreyn |
27 | Trent Hiscock |
28 | Hugh Boxshall |
29 | Aiden Riddle |
30 | Jaxon Douglas |
36 | Andre Gulluni (emg) |
22 | Toby Whan (emg) |
39 | Hudson Pivac (emg) |