Dusties do it tough in dour win

by Nicholas Duck
Warragul Industrials have staved off elimination in the fourths after a gritty, low-scoring win against Tooradin-Dalmore.
It wasn't really a game for the spectators at Bass Recreation Reserve with just two goals kicked for the match – both to the Dusties.

Defence was king for both sides and, despite the best efforts of the Seagulls, it was the Dusties who held firm for longer, coming out winners 2.5 (17) to 0.8 (8).
Big man Cohen Dent reigned supreme for the Dusties in a best on ground performance, along with the likes of Melvey Podmore, Adrian French, Zachary Thompson, Brody Walsh and James Patterson.
Walsh and Patterson earned their spots among the best in part due to being the only two players on the field able to make the most of their chances in front of goal.
The tone for the day was set early after a brutal first term in which neither side was able to find the big sticks, the Dusties booting one behind to the Seagulls' two.
Warragul Industrials were able to break the deadlock in the second term, finally finding a major to put themselves up by five points at half time.
The Seagulls, who had been beaten by the Dusties during the home and away season by margins of 27 and 38 points respectively, were able to effectively limit any and all scoring and turn the day into a real slog.
Another tense quarter followed half time, the Seagulls threatening on numerous occasions to steal the lead only to come up short, three behinds all they could muster despite plenty of chances.
With just three points the difference and the year on the line, it was the Dusties who found that all-important score in the final term, pushing the margin out beyond a goal and ensuring they'll be hanging around for a semi-final battle against Inverloch-Kongwak on Sunday at Cora Lynn.
On paper they won't be favourites, though in their previous meeting this season the Sea Eagles snuck past by just seven points.
If Sunday against the Seagulls is any indication, the Dusties will be more than up for the fight, no matter how tough.
Best on for Tooradin-Dalmore were Jayden Worrall, Luke Lombard, Will Murray and Kasy Deren.