Caplan’s 150th game footy feat for AJAX

Adam Caplan pumped his fist as he was lifted by his teammates in triumph after his milestone 150th game for AJAX – a 16-point win away versus St Bedes-Mentone, that lifted them into fourth place on the VAFA men’s Premier B ladder after eight rounds.

It was also the first time in many years that the Jackas have won a match at the Brindisi Street ground, whose relatively small size always ensures loads of physical, contested footy is played.

“Reward for effort” is how Jackas head coach Adam Andrews described the win, as his team maintained its composure when tying 26-all at the end of the first quarter, going on to build, and extend, a handy lead.

Caplan, with backline partner Richie Simon, put the brakes on their opponents’ scoring opportunities, Nick Lewis and Benji Krongold embraced the challenge of playing in different positions when mid-match injuries forced a reshuffle, and Toby Sheezel (3 goals) and Kane Nissenbaum (2) were accurate all afternoon.

The Jackas’ win sets up a clash for third spot this Saturday from 2pm when they host Old Haileybury at Gary Smorgon Oval.

AJAX’s women’s Division 2 team are also coming fourth after their tight 12-9 win over La Trobe Uni last Sunday.

In an unusual scenario, the Jackettes scored all their points via behinds, while keeping La Trobe to one goal and three behinds.

Jessica Shustin was everywhere, and in the crucial last quarter, lifted her side with four contested marks, while Hayley Mrocki, Justine Gabriel and Mikaela Grek closed down Uni’s attack.

The Jackettes will host third-placed Albert Park Falcons from midday this Saturday at Lindsay Hassett Oval.