Heartbreak for Halls Head as Baldivis Brumbies win Anzac Day thriller

Halls Head led for the majority of the match but were unable to hold off Baldivis in the final term, going down 9.7 (61) to 8.15 (63) in a gut-wrenching result for the Lightning.

Baldivis gave the early push in the game, utilising a strong breeze to kick away to a 13-point lead at the first change.

Skill errors saw the Lightning behind to start the game, but they were quickly cleaned up after coach Clayton Falkingham implored his side to be more efficient.

The improved play saw Halls Head romp the reigning premiers in the second term, booting six goals to one.

The Lightning were impressive around the ground, switching play efficiently when the kick down the line was congested and making the most from their forward entries.

A goal on the cusp of half time lifted them to an 18-point lead just before the main break.

A sharper Baldivis side emerged from the half time huddles, but it was Halls Head applying all the early pressure with the ball locked in their forward line for the first few minutes of the quarter.

The Brumbies attempted to break the press with long bombs, but Halls Head’s immaculate set up produced a number of repeat entries to their forwards.

However, the Lightning failed to convert their chances and it was Baldivis drawing first blood in the second half.

Halls Head were able to peg it back with the reply, but two late goals to the Brumbies just before the final change saw the Lightning’s resolve begin to waver.

Down by two at three-quarter-time, Baldivis coach Craig Hammersly put the question to his playing group.

“How badly do you want to win this game? If you want it, you’re going to have to work hard for it,” he said.

“You need to work your opponent into the ground.”

With the message ringing loud and clear, Baldivis charged out and put the first score on the board early to take the lead.

Halls Head looked to be spent, but they continued their fight with a brilliant goal from Michael Beeton returning them to the lead.

No side would kick a major for the remainder of the game, but enough forward 50m entries allowed Baldivis all the opportunity they needed to get the required behinds and squeeze out a hard fought win.

Hamersley said the performance wasn’t his side’s cleanest, but he was happy to get the win.

“I don’t think we’re operating at 100 per cent,” he said.

“But having said that, the boys toughed it out for a good win and hopefully we can keep the ball rolling now that we’ve got the monkey of our backs.”

Halls Head’s Robert Falkstrom was named the overall best on ground and presented with the spirit award, donated by the Dawesville RSL.

The Brumbies take on Mandurah back at home next weekend, while Halls Head will prepare for a clash with Centrals.