Albion pulled off its biggest win for years in the Western Region Football League at the weekend, knocking off red-hot title favourites Deer Park in what will likely go down as the upset of the season.
The Cats, who finished eighth last year, beat the defending champions 13.20 (98) – 8.13 (61) at JR Parsons Reserve.
With Deer Park missing goalkicking superstar and key off-season recruit Brendan Fevola, the Cats pounced early, Jason Butina putting his side on the board within two minutes.
James and Kym Taylor then combined for two of the next three goals to put early pressure on the Lions, who are chasing a fourth successive premiership.
A late major to Todd Finco pushed the lead out to 24 points at the first break.
In front of their home fans, the Albion players maintained their advantage over the next two quarters even though momentum swung between the two sides.
Leading by 20 points at the final break, the Cats produced a brilliant quarter of football to ensure there would be no nervous moments.
Finco booted the opening goal of the term, while Josh Bench, James Thompson and Jeremy Mills were dangerous targets up forward as Albion kicked four goals to one to secure a famous victory.
‘Deserved win’
Albion president Gavan Taylor said his players thoroughly deserved the win.
“A win like that is great for our kids, who were running around in the under-19s two or three years ago,” he said.
“We’ve brought in a couple of people, but they are the base of our side. They all played well and it gives them the world of confidence going forward.” As well as paying credit to the players, Taylor was full of praise for coach Aaron Tymms.
Now in his third year as coach, Tymms has played a key role in the club’s rebuild.
“It’s great for Aaron to see the work he’s done for the club starting to pay off,” Taylor said.
“I have a lot of belief in him. He’s been under the pump since day one and has known that. He has never taken a cent off us, has always been at the forefront of improving the football club I think he’s doing a great job.”
Saturday’s win is Albion’s second of the season after smashing Wyndhamvale in round one.
And after knocking over last year’s premiers, the Cats now turn their attention to completing the grand final day double act when they take on 2015 runners-up Werribee Districts this week.
