AAMI SA U18 Team defeated by Victoria Metro in Game 3

By ZAC MILBANK

The AAMI SA U18 Team was overwhelmed by a powerful Victoria Metro unit, succumbing by 46 points in Game 3 of the Marsh AFL National Championships at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.

Entering the crucial contest with a 1-1 win-loss record after a 66-point win against the Allies in Game 2, the Croweaters were in touch throughout the first half before being blown away during the third term as the Vics piled on 5.3 to 1.1.

The hosts – now undefeated with a 3-0 win-loss record – used the ball cleanly through the corridor as often as possible, with their inaccuracy in the first two quarters giving SA a chance to claw back into the encounter.

AAMI SA U18 captain Kodah Edwards led from the front with 15 disposals in the first quarter before finishing with 26, six marks and four tackles but he was battling to find enough assistance for his side to draw level with Metro.

Potent SA forward Jack Slattery booted goals in each of the quarter to finish with five of his side’s 10 majors for the afternoon as he continued his consistent campaign with 12 for the carnival.

Crows NGA prospect Anthony Long kicked two goals in the opening half while running half-back Jake Eime caught the eye with his run and carry from defence, finishing with a team-high 27 disposals.

Bottom-age SA ball magnet Laurence Andriani dispayed promising signs through the midfield to tally 18 disposals and five clearances in his first appearance for the tournament.

South Australia – with a 1-2 win-loss record – will now prepare for its final game of the Championships against Victoria Country at Mars Stadium in Ballarat next Wednesday.

Victoria Metro  2.5  6.7  11.10  16.15 (111)

South Australia  2.0  5.3  6.4  10.5 (65)

BEST – SA: Jack Slattery, Kodah Edwards, Memphis Webb, Jack Leys, Laurence Andriani, Jake Eime.

GOALS – SA: Jack Slattery 5, Anthony Long 2, Charlie Bradford, Gabe Patterson, Harvey Croker.

At Marvel Stadium, Melbourne