New Experience for WA’s U16sFriday, July 12, 2024 - 12:09 PM

A second half seven goal haul was not enough to beat Victoria Metro in the Black Swans final game of the 2024 Marsh AFL National Development Championships – U16 Boys. 

WA kicked six goals in the third quarter to narrow their margin to just eight points at the last break, before Vic Metro powered away to a 20-point win 11.11 (77) to 7.13 (55). 

West Perth’s Koby LeCras kicked three goals for WA, while Lucas Robinson (South Fremantle), Angus Abbonizio (Subiaco), Samuel Hill (West Perth) and Kye Ormerod (East Fremantle) each scored a goal. 

Robinson had an impact with a game-high of 25 possessions and four tackles, while Leo Steed (Swan Districts) had 23 disposals including 14 kicks and two tackles. 

WA Football’s State Talent Manager Adam Jones praised the side’s efforts. 

“We started really well in the first quarter but couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard,” he said. 

“To the boys' credit, they came out really well in the second half but couldn’t quite hold on in the end.” 

WA finished the championships with a 1-2 win-loss record, but the experience for the players was invaluable. 

“These championships are the players’ first opportunity to play against other states at a really high level of football,” Jones explained. 

“It’s also the first time recruiters see the players and it gives them (the recruiters) a good feel for the level of talent in that year group. 

The AFL will release the All-Australian team and MVP awards in the coming weeks.