Match Report: Round 5 vs Brisbane

28/04/2025

The Zebs go down to the Lions on an overcast Saturday at RSEA Park

Photography by Jake Phillips

The Sandringham Football Club showed great resilience in Round 5 of the 2025 Smithy's VFL season, battling hard against a strong Brisbane Lions outfit at RSEA Park.

The Zebras fought bravely throughout the afternoon, with several players standing out in a spirited team performance.

Midfield Grit
The Zebras midfield group worked tirelessly all game. Jack Carroll led from the front after halftime, winning key clearances and driving Sandringham forward with his strong contested work. Hugh Boxshall was also influential around the contest, applying relentless tackling pressure and collecting 23 disposals, while Josh Hutchings made his mark inside 50, kicking two important goals from composed set shots.

Captain Blake Watson provided leadership with a classy snap goal, while Ethan Williams and Harry Boyd added vital physical presence around the stoppages to keep Sandringham competitive through the middle of the ground.

Defensive Effort
Despite Brisbane's attacking pressure, the Sandringham backline held firm for much of the contest. Alix Tauru was outstanding across half-back, controlling the air with intercept marks and setting up rebound plays with precision ball use. James Barrat and Liam O’Connell were reliable under pressure, consistently halting Brisbane’s forward momentum with smart defensive efforts.

Forward Persistence
The forward line found their rhythm after quarter-time. Jonah Campigli provided a spark, booting two goals in the final quarter — one from a clever snap and another from a sharp set shot. Max Heath contributed with strong marking around the ground, while Sam Latreille and Liam Henry were lively linking players, generating inside 50 entries and creating scoring chances.

Sandringham finished the match with a strong final quarter surge, showing heart and fight until the final siren, but Brisbane’s early lead proved too great to overcome.

Goals: Josh Hutchings (2), Jonah Campigli (2), Blake Watson (1), Billy Richardson (1)

Stat Leaders:
Disposals: Arie Schoenmaker (29), Angus Hastie (24), Hugh Boxshall (23)

Sandringham Zebras: 0.5 (5) | 1.9 (15) | 3.12 (30) | 5.14 (44)
Brisbane Lions: 3.3 (21) | 8.9 (57) | 10.13 (73) | 13.15 (93)

Written by Liam Brauer - Sandringham FC