Last Saturday, the Hawthorn Spartans picked up their game to lead at the end of the second half against the only undefeated team in the 2021 Premier Thirds Men’s division. The last time Spartans met Old Melburnians, they lost 33 points to 154.
“After being in front at half time and really taking it up to them, we lost the game in the third quarter,” Hawthorn Spartans team manager George Demetriou told Neos Kosmos of their Round 12 meeting.
But he said the performance lifted as the Spartans did not allow Old Melbournians to break away in the final quarter.
READ MORE: Spartans stage a dramatic fightback against high-flying Old Scotch
While victory was again not to be, the Spartans will take heart as they pegged back the high-flying Old Melburnians on their home ground at Elsternwick Park to a hard-fought 80-39 loss. It reflected well on a much-improved defensive performance by the Spartans.
“Losing key players Stan Neohoritis and Jack Didier really hurt us,” Mr Demetriou said. “We were tough and committed until injuries took their toll. The last time we played them (Round 5 on 8 May), we lost by 118 points which is a turnaround of 77 points. Overall, it was a great effort by everyone.”
The Spartan goalkicking load was evenly shared among six players who scored one each.
Of particular mention in dispatches was Con Pana’s contribution to set up Nick Criticos for his goal. Will Cowie’s intercept-marking play was another highlight on the day as was his goal.
“It was a massive turnaround from when we played them earlier in the year,” Mr Demetriou said.”We need some players to keep getting fitter as we stick together to ensure we keep improving. It has been a real test of our depth. Also, we need all players attending training so we can work on our structures. We have winnable games coming up and lets all work hard to win the remaining games.” .
The Spartans face University Black on home ground at the Rathmines Road Reserve at 11.40am. The canteen will be open.