It was a day all defenders would relish and that’s exactly what Josh Smith did in Saturday’s VFL clash against the Gold Coast.
In conditions described as ‘icy’ and ‘miserable’ by North Melbourne development coach John Lamont, the North Ballarat Roosters were able to secure an important win at home in a low scoring affair.
In high wind, some rain and freezing temperatures, Smith again proved that he has an ability to play at both ends of the football field.
Back in defence for another week, the 24 year-old was rock solid collecting 32 possessions in a pivotal role for coach Gerard Fitzgerald.
He used both sides of his body well and found plenty of space in a match not suited to bigger, taller players.
Last week Smith was extremely impressive with 26 disposals, 15 marks and three spoils against Collingwood.
His latest effort would certainly have him close to an AFL recall.
However he wasn’t alone and had plenty of support from Luke Delaney (14 disposals, 3 tackles) who was playing his second consecutive game after recovering from a broken wrist earlier in the year.
After a quiet start to the year, Warren Benjamin had a much ‘busier’ game according to Lamont.
Hailing from Claremont in Western Australia, the 20 year-old has taken some time to develop after being selected with North’s last pick in the 2008 Draft.
Benjamin has blistering speed and clocked an impressive time of 2.76 seconds for the 20m sprint at the draft camp but is still learning how to use his outstanding attributes in the contest.
It’s something forward Aaron Edwards (25 disposals, 6 marks, 4 tackles, 1 goal) seems to be doing after another solid performance.
David Hale meanwhile enjoyed another run in the ruck with a productive 38 hit-outs to go along with 18 touches and the rejuvenated Corey Jones (17 disposals, 5 tackles) tallied another three goals to continue his brilliant season.
Marcus White (25 disposals, 4 tackles) was ‘consistent all day’, Leigh Harding (14 disposals) and Gavin Urquhart (14 disposals, 6 tackles) were also productive while draftee Brayden Norris (12 disposals) ‘took another important step forward’ in his development.
North Ballarat: 6.12.48
Gold Coast: 3.1.19
