Match Report - 3 July 2021

Round 12

3 July 2021

AJAX v Fitzroy

In the 100th game for both Daniel Cohen and Daniel Janover-Rocher, the Jackas returned home to the Gary Smorgon oval for an intriguing clash against Fitzroy.  Fitzroy struck first early, despite AJAX'S encouraging play within the forward line they weren’t able to have any shots on goal early despite Fitzroy’s pressure. A number of missed marking opportunities proved immensely costly, as not much was able to separate the sides at the close of the first half with Fitzroy slightly leading.

An abundance of mistakes within play from both sides catalysed the second half, with AJAX making stride within possession, holding the ball within the forward 50 as they kicked their first goal of the game, and the first of the second term. Fitzroy also began to kick into their scoring stride, as the game began to open within moments of transition. Yet, largely the stagnant moments led to the play drying up, with the contest largely being a low scoring affair with the slow play benefiting the likes of Toby Sheezel and Kane Nissenbaum. Yet in the otherwise cagey affair, Fitzroy led at the close of the half by a mere two goals.

The Jackas commenced the second half with an intent to attack from the start, yet Fitzroy had the buck of possession early, afforded set-shot opportunities at will. They began to stretch their lead to over 20, as the game was slowly drifting from AJAX'S grasp. Several more goals kicked by Fitzroy ensured that they had a near 50 point lead heading into the final term in a rather disappointing quarter which sealed the Jackas’ fate against Fitzroy. Yet, a late Adam Caplan set-shot re-invigorated the spirit of the Jackas.

Within the final term, the Jackas showcased an abundance of fight and grit, yet succumbed to the technical ability of Fitzroy as AJAX slumped to a resounding defeat with plenty of work to do in the coming week. The Jackas outscored Fitzroy comprehensively with goals from Richie Simon who was pivotal in the late fight-back, which proved too little too late.

Goals: Simon 2, Fisher, A Caplan, D Cohen, Lewis, Lipton
Bests: Sheezel, Ja Ludski, Berkowitz, Nissenbaum, Debinski, Simon