By Ryan Long.
Berwick took another step forward in 2023, their most wins in a season since joining the Eastern Football Netball League.
Senior Men’s
Ladder Position: 9th (6-12, 78.52%)
Best and Fairest: Will Arthurson
Summary:
The Wickers had their best season in the EFNL since joining back in 2021, winning six games.
For a young side, it’s been all about the continued development and improvement of the squad each season.
After multiple key players missing the 2022 season due to injury, there was plenty of internal and external hope that Berwick would be able to put a few more wins on the board this year.
It was a shaky start losing five in a row after a memorable round one victory over Vermont.
They eventually managed to find some winning form, winning four games in a row, including a 14-point win over Noble Park at home.
A lot to like about their future as they establish their spot in the Eastern Football Netball League.
Key Players:
Will Arthurson was key for the Wickers this season in defence, winning the club best and fairest. This year he returned to the club as a full-time Wicker after playing 14 games at VFL level. His year was noticed by many outside the club as well, recognised with a Team of the Year spot.
Also finishing high in the club’s best and fairest count was Ashton Williamson, averaging 26 disposals and six clearances per game.
Caleb Van Oostveen finished as runner up in Berwick’s count, averaging 21 disposals in 2023.
Best Win: Round One – Berwick 11.11 77 def. Vermont 10.12 72 @Vermont Recreation Reserve
How could you go past this Round One classic in the wet against the ultimate powerhouse of the EFNL.
Arguably their best win since joining the league, defeating Vermont in a thriller.
Berwick had to do it the hard way, trailing at the final break by 19 points before a massive five goal last quarter in the wet. They ran over the top of the Eagles with Jonte Andrew kicking the match winner, booting the ball out of mid-air in a stoppage inside 50.
Ashton Williamson had a day out, 154 Premier Data Ranking Points, 26 disposals, 8 tackles and 9 clearances.
Off-Season Focus:
As mentioned previously, the Wickers are still quite young across the board. Their improvement has certainly been noticed this year but it’s only going to get tougher in 2024 with the competition moving from 12 teams to 10.
Still think their biggest issue is their forward line and the ability to produce high scores. They were the second last ranked attacking side in 2023, averaging 53 points per game. It’s a long way off the finals contenders and an area they’ll need to close the gap in 2024.
Clint Evans has been re-appointed as senior coach having done a great job with the development of the list.
Potentially a breakout year for the club in 2024.