JASPAR WILSON-KEIR | MAY 5, 2026
SOUTHPORT returned from the bye with a composed performance, securing a 12.8 (80) to 10.10 (70) victory in challenging conditions.
Southport players celebrate a goal.
It was a strong start from the Sharks, capitalising on a favourable breeze to kick the opening two goals through Noah Casalini and Sam Day. Southport controlled territory in the first term to take a 21-point lead into quarter time.
Footscray responded in the second quarter, lifting their pressure and narrowing the margin with a four-goal term. While the Sharks continued to find scoring opportunities, the Bulldogs’ efficiency brought them back within 10 points at the main break.
The contest tightened in the third quarter, with both sides trading goals in an even term to set up a tense final period.
With rain setting in and conditions deteriorating, the final quarter became a grind. The sides went goal for goal early, before vice-captain Zac Foot produced a crucial moment, gathering cleanly outside 50 and converting to steady the Sharks.
Casalini then sealed the result late, kicking his third goal in the dying minutes to extend the margin and ensure Southport held on.
In defence, Jesse Joyce (33 disposals) was strong throughout, while Max Spencer (21 disposals, seven marks) provided support in the air.
Through the middle, Jacob Dawson (31 disposals, 10 clearances) and Brock Aston (29 disposals, six tackles) worked tirelessly, while Hewago Oea (21 disposals, two goals) and Campbell Lake (26 disposals, nine tackles, one goal) were influential in key moments.
The Sharks continue their 2026 VFL campaign at Fankhauser Reserve, Saturday 9 May at 10:35am.
SOUTHPORT 4.3 7.4 9.8 12.8 (80)
FOOTSCRAY 1.0 5.6 7.7 10.10 (70)
GOALS: Casalini 3, Day 2, Oea 2, T.Dawson, Foot, Lake, Pescud, Rowe
BEST PLAYERS: Joyce, Spencer, Lake, Dawson, Oea, Aston
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