Wickham Wolves defeat South Hedland by nine points in round five of the North Pilbara Football League

The Wickham Wolves defeated the South Hedland Swans by nine points on Saturday at Kevin Scott Oval, knocking the Swans to bottom of the ladder with only one win for the season. The 10.15 (75) to 8.16 (64) scoreline flattered the reigning premiers as the home side trailed the entirety of the round five fixture. The visitors started fast, booting four goals in the opening term to take a 19-point lead into the quarter time break. Nelson Ansey booted two goals for the Wolves, bringing his tally to six goals in two games after a four goal haul against the Falcons in round three. Tom Higgins and Drew Woodley also contributed with two goals each in the Wolves’ second win for the season. Woodley sits fifth on the league’s leading goal kicker list with nine majors for the season in a consistent season thus far. Higgins created a strong leading target up forward and added strength to the forward structure of the visitors. The Wolves’ Jack Kay was impressive in defence, showing lots of composure across the half back line and chipping in with a handy goal. Kevin Geary was the best for the Swans with two majors as the home side struggled with cohesion in the forward line. Skill errors and inaccuracy ultimately cost them the four points as 16 behinds proved too inefficient in front of goal. The Swans face a tough test in round six against the Kats, who are coming off a 55-point demolition of the Rovers. The 2020 premiers will need to turn their form around quickly to make an impact come finals. It was a different tale for the reserves sides as South Hedland dominated the Wolves 18.12 (120) to 5.1 (31). Jayden Brown booted four goals for the home side while Bryce Newman snagged three majors of his own in a high scoring display. The Wolves reserves have fallen to bottom of the table with only one win for the season.