A spirited defeat against the competition’s leaders has emboldened the senior team’s belief that they can match it with the best, says injured veteran Anthony Carroll.
The Sharks fell short to the undefeated Old Carey by two goals on Saturday, despite taking a nine-point lead into the last break.
But a short three-goal final term blitz allowed the Panthers to keep its undefeated record intact.
“To get within two goals of the comp leaders is pleasing. We stuck with them for most of the day and just fell short,” Carroll said.
“But I was impressed with our performance and confident that we can beat them when we meet later in the year.”
Scott Gower held the B-grade leading goalscorer – former GWS and Carlton listed-tall Kristian Jaksch – to a solitary major.
Ruckman Callum Heath again proved he’s an aerial and pack mark specialist, with his signature sticky fingers on display, while dashing defender Lewis Diggins put together another impressive performance.
Carroll, who faces up to six weeks on the sidelines after breaking his ankle at training last week, says the Sharks are yet to take full flight.
“Our forward line hasn’t functioned fully yet. Our mids and backline have been awesome, but once we hit a bit of form and get some personnel back, I think we can match it with the best,” he said.
“The four first gamers were particularly impressive. Tim Jeans looks clever up forward, JT (James Taylor) and Lochie (Brodie) look comfortable in the seniors and we know Dyl (Gabron-Uhe) can play senior footy too.”
The loss pushed Beaumaris outside the top four – a win behind fourth-placed Caulfield Grammarians.
The reserves continued its winning ways with a seventh straight victory against the Panthers.
In a low scoring affair – 7.4 (46) to 3.4 (22) – the Sharks simply did what was necessary to salute another win against a highly touted side.
Callum Beattie-Powell was best afield, while Jared Evans and Matt Hanson (three goals) built on their consistent start to the season.
Both teams head to the snake pit to take on another finals fancy outfit, St Bernards at Essendon.
“St Bernards are always a tough opponent and look like they are travelling well, so it will be another good test,” Carroll said.