By Jonty Ralphsmith
Devon Meadows kept its winning form rolling against Hastings on Saturday, despatching the struggling Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League Division 2 side 14.18 102 to 6.8 44.
A six-goal opening term set the scene and the Panthers were able to cruise thereafter, the result maintaining their stronghold on top spot.
Missing a slew of first choice players across all lines, it was youngsters Riley McDonald and Jack Wilson who stood up, thriving when given midfield minutes.
“We wanted to give an opportunity for a few of the younger kids to stand up and they were pretty good,” said coach Ryan Hendy.
“Riley McDonald and Jack Wilson went really well.
“They were going in and winning their own footy and getting it on the outside and getting it on the spread which was good.”
With a bye this week, the Panthers will have time to refresh before a clash against fourth-placed Crib Point to start the second half of their season.
“We’re really happy with the position we’re in given the injuries we’ve had,” Hendy said.
“To be sitting on top of the ladder with lots of players out is really satisfying but we know we’ve only done half the work so hopefully we can get the boys back and hit the ground running in the back half of the season.”
Meanwhile, Pearcedale had a surprise 21.6 132 to 10.5 65 loss to Bonbeach, but remains fifth on the ladder at the halfway point.
