GNFL Round 8 wrap: Northampton emerged winners against Towns but it was far from a walkover

Northampton versus Towns at Purcher International Oval on Saturday looked like an easy prediction to make — on paper at least.

The Rams were coming off a confident win against their rivals Chapman Valley last week, while Towns were nursing defeats against Rovers and Railways.

The Rams were looking to build some momentum in an effort to close the gap on the top three teams.

Although Northampton ran out eventual winners 10.17 (76) to Towns 8.6 (54), the match was far from a walkover.

Rams missed multiple opportunities in the first quarter, while Dale Baynes’ Towns team took advantage of Northampton’s wayward kicking on goal.

Towns went into the first break in front, 3.4 (22) to the Rams 0.3 (3), Northampton failing to put much forward play together.

Whatever Rams’ coaches Grady Tomelty and Adam Price said must have done the trick. Northampton came out with renewed vigour, kicking six goals in the second session compared with Towns’ single. Jordan Drage and Nathanial Mourambine both proved their value for the Rams.

Half-time saw Northampton go in with some confidence 6.6 (42) to Towns 4.4 (28)

Towns were not down and out, with William Faithful and Taj Satie both ensuring the Rams did not build an unassailable lead.

Unfortunately for coach Baynes, Towns failed to dominate much of the play, with singles coming from across the team, they could not match Northampton’s determination.

The Rams had goals from William Throne, Jordan Drage and Nathanial Mourambine, all with two apiece. With singles from across the team the Rams improved as the game went on, with Tyler Caddy toiling hard and Flynn Dillon dominating in the ruck.

The coaches from Northampton were pleased with the win but remained realistic about the season. “A good win against a young side who challenged us for four quarters,” they said. “As far as a season objective we are looking for the highest finish possible.”

The Rams host Brigades in round nine with Towns welcoming Chapman Valley. The other game next round is Mullewa hosting Railways.

In another league match of round eight, Jaye Colgate starred with six goals in Chapman Valley’s 79-point thumping of Mullewa at Mazzuchelli Oval.

Lee Hutchins, Jay O’Brien, Brett Robinson and Paul Sorensen were judged best afield for the Royals.