OAMPS Blades Take Top Spot

The OAMPS Queensland Blades sent a resounding message to the other teams competing in the 2008 men’s AHL tournament after a convincing victory over the Victorian Vikings leaves them as the only undefeated team at the competition.

Although the Blades entered the match undefeated, they had been less than convincing in previous matches, while the Vikings had been the form team of the competition.

However the Blades now look like genuine contenders to win a record third championship in a row after disposing of the Vikings. 

A double to Nathan Eglington helped secure the victory as Queensland held the usually high scoring Vikings to only two goals, both scored in the first half.

Two first half goals from Vikings midfielder Josh Pollard kept the Victorians in the game with the scores level at half time. His two field goals were well executed team goals which were set up thanks to the brilliant lead up work by his fellow Victorian team mates.

However the Blades were also active in the first half, with Nathan Eglington’s individual effort to bring the ball into the circle through traffic and shoot for goal a true indication of his skill level.

Overall the Blades had the best of the first half, with the Vikings slow start nearly cost them dearly after Queensland had numerous opportunities in their attacking 25 but were unable to convert.

The Victorians continued with uncharacteristic mistakes from their backline in the first half, creating unnecessary pressure on their team. However they were able regain their composure prior to half time and go into the break with the game drawn.

The second half started slowly again for the Victorians as they failed to capitalise on their opportunities to score off their normally reliable short corners. The inability to convert hurt them as Queensland put on three unanswered goals in the first 23 minutes of the second half thanks to the work of Jamie Dwyer, Nathan Eglington and Tim Bates.

The clinical precision of the Blades game style would be of a major concern for the remaining teams of the AHL competition as they look set to claim their third championship. On the other hand, while the Vikings were well beaten, they will no doubt use the remainder of the AHL rounds to perfect their game plan with the hope of facing the Blades again in the AHL finals.