Merlin moments show Blues building evolutionary drive

INGLEWOOD has jumped to leaders of the middle-tier Loddon Valley league triumvirate with a 78-point victory over Newbridge.

The Blues percentage-boosting success was hallmarked with magical moments by a dashing Daniel Polack across the midfield, agility-plus marks deep forward by an outnumbered Gabe Nevins and half a dozen true kicks for goal by Charlie McGaw.

Add in another four goals from Sam Dorevitch who had a dominant day around the ground and Keylan Payne holding his ground in front of sticks for two and it was always going to be tough for Newbridge who could not break the Blues’ spell.

Early in the opening term, Newbridge more than challenged the home side and even hit the lead with goals from Chris Dixon and Sam Gale - they were in the right spots to capitalise on Inglewood miskicks.

The Blues then became more accurate, Dorevitch and Polack feeding the ball deep. McGaw put his side back in front and Nevins goaled on the siren to put Inglewood a respectable 14 points up at the break.

The next two quarters belonged to Inglewood - the second term seven-goal burst the Blues’ best since stunning Marong in the opening quarter in round two.

Newbridge’s defence was under growing pressure. Liam Nihil was to the fore repelling constant forward moves from Inglewood in opening minutes of the second term.

Dorevitch broke through for the first major, missed a chance for another just minutes later and then Ingham booted the ball through from a wind-assisted 60 metres out to extend the lead. McGaw would kick two for the term while Dorevitch and Polack did much of the work to set up play.

Inglewood carried momentum into the third term adding another four goals but with seven behinds also registered.

The Maroons were not ready to capitulate with Lloyd, Stevens and McLeod battling against an opponent still with mag- ic tricks up the sleeve. Newbridge was held goalless with forward entries only netting six behinds.

Inglewood eased off in the final term with both sides kicking four majors.

The Blues commitment in tight contests and stringing together magical moments the big difference in lifting percentage in the battle for third spot with Bridgewater and Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

- CHRIS EARL