Nathan Burgess claims 7 goals in the win against Aspley. Photo: Ronnie
A COURAGEOUS Alex Hills Bombers side prevailed by 13 points against a third-placed Aspley in difficult conditions on Saturday.
Late in the final term Aspley had one of their final forays into the Bombers forward 50. As the ball flew through the air, Aspley looked sure to mark, but defender Alex De Hayr willed himself to make a spoil. It was a key act.
One month ago an embarrassed Alex Hills walked off the ground at Wynumn after a 92 point loss, seemingly devoid of confidence, passion and inspiration.
Fast forward and the Bombers have won their last three matches on the back of a brand of football that's daring, intense, and relentless.
Having defeated lowly ranked opposition in the two previous weeks, Aspley were always going to be a challenge, and the Bombers delivered.
The away side started terrifically. The back six were solid, with the aerial work of Rusby and Lewis opening the game up for the running Jordan Reilly to rebound.
Joseph and Campbell won plenty of football from the ruckwork of Templar. Fitzgerald, Pyke and Mcgrath locked the forward line down with suffocating tackling pressure.
Burgess kicked 5 goals in a first half clinic to see the Bombers head into the main break 21 points ahead.
Aspley came out chasing in the third quarter, but two more goals from Burgess kept Aspley at arm's length at the final break.
With the rain teeming down, the Bombers had a 20 point lead to protect. Pyke goaled early to put Alex Hills over 4 goals clear.
Aspley then surged, kicking the next two. With conditions worsening, the Bombers looked tired but leg weary players conjured up extra efforts to repel Aspley and record an important victory.
Aspley Hornets 8.16-64 def. by Alexandra Hills 12.5-77. Goals: J. Campbell, N. Burgess, J. Reilly, J. Templar, L. Reilly, S. Giradi
Other grades: In the Reserves, An array of undisciplined acts cost the Bombers a chance at consolidating third spot as they suffered a disappointing 28 point loss to Aspley Hornets 10.7-67 to 6.3-39. In U18's, Morningside 6.3-69 was defeated by Alexandra Hills 15.11-101.