Wallan swoops early

Corey Grindlay was one of Wallan's best on Saturday. Picture Shawn Smits.

Wallan remains the only undefeated team after seven rounds in the Riddell District Football League – knocking off Rupertswood by seven points at the weekend.

The Magpies jumped out of the blocks with the only three goals in the first quarter and it proved to be a match-winning lead.

The Sharks got back to within two goals at the main break and the difference was 11 points at three-quarter time.

Despite the Sharks having seven scoring shots to three in the final quarter, the gap proved too big, with the Magpies winning 8.12 (60)-7.11 (53).

Jake Layley and Sam Rexhepi kicked two goals apiece for the Magpies, while Luke Cannon and Dylan Featon were the multiple goalscorers for the Sharks.

Brenton Cox was named the Magpies best, with Brett Chambers leading from the front for the Sharks.

The win leaves the Magpies a game clear on top of the ladder, heading into the Queen’s Birthday bye.

Rupertswood remains in second spot, a game clear of Macedon and Woodend-Hesket.

The under-19.5s game between the two sides was called off earlier in the day when Wallan’s Liam Birch collapsed on field and had to be revived.

Birch was taken to hospital.

On their Facebook page, Wallan officials said Birch was recovering and is expected to have tests in the coming days.

A Facebook post praised spectators and officials from both clubs for their handling of the situation.

The Sharks could receive a boost after the break, with former East Keilor coach Nick Grigg putting in a clearance to join the club.

Grigg, a noted goalkicker, will add further firepower up forward for the Sharks.

While Grigg’s first clearance has been denied, Star Weekly has been told his second clearance was successful.

Other winners were Melton Centrals, Woodend-Hesket, Riddell, Macedon and Rockbank.

There are no games this weekend due to the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.