The Casey Demons have continued their hot streak, claiming a dominant 63-point victory over the Sandringham Zebras to rise one spot on the ladder by the end of Round 18.
While the Zebras opened with early intensity, they couldn’t contain the Dees’ surge. Once Casey gained momentum, there was no turning back — piling on an incredible 11 consecutive goals to blow the game wide open. The final scoreboard told the story: 18.15 (123) to 9.6 (60).
The group saw contributions across the board, highlighted by nine individual goal scorers in a well-rounded team performance.
At the contest, Casey were immense. Their dominance at the coalface set the tone, with a commanding clearance game led by a string of standout midfield performances.
Jack Billings was instrumental, racking up 36 disposals and 2 goals in a starring role. His work rate and ability to find the footy was key in driving the Dees forward.
Bailey Laurie also impressed with a classy 25-disposal game, applying intense pressure throughout. His 9 tackles led the match and underlined his commitment on both sides of the ball.
Back in the VFL side, Koltyn Tholstrup brought serious energy around the contest, registering 7 clearances. He finished with 20 disposals and a goal, highlighted by a sensational chase-down tackle that stood out as one of the moments of the day.
In the ruck, Tom Campbell continued his brilliant form. A constant presence around stoppages, he tallied 26 disposals, 12 clearances, and dominated the hit-outs to give the midfield first use.
Up forward, Harry Sharp was lethal. The leading goal kicker of the day, he slotted five majors. His trademark running and goal sense consistently catching the Zebras off guard.
Casey-listed forward Mitch Hardie is building an outstanding run of form. With 26 disposals, 3 goals and 12 marks, his influence both inside 50 and around the ground was immense. His work rate and versatility continue to shine each week.
Matthew Jefferson was a constant aerial threat, flying for strong marks and generating seven scoring shots. His presence inside 50 kept Sandringham's defence under pressure throughout the match.
In a special debut, future 2025 AFL draft prospect Willem Duursma pulled on the red and blue for the first time — and didn’t look out of place. He collected 17 disposals at an impressive 82% efficiency, took 10 marks, and displayed his football smarts with composure across the ground.
Down back, Riley Bonner continues to dominate at VFL level. The rebounding defender finished with 31 disposals and 8 tackles. His drive off half-back and strong defensive efforts were again central to Casey’s game plan.
With a well-earned bye in Round 19, the Dees will enjoy a break before turning their attention to a Round 20 away clash against a red-hot Brisbane Lions outfit. Carrying serious momentum, Casey will be eager to extend their winning streak and continue pushing toward finals.
CASEY DEMONS 8.1 11.7 14.9 18.15 (123)
SANDRINGHAM ZEBRAS 3.2 3.3 5.5 9.6 (60)
GOALS
Casey Demons: Sharp (5), Hardie (3), Kentfield (2), Jefferson (2), Billings (2), Verrall (1), Tholstrup (1), Laurie (1), Johnson (1)
Sandringham Zebras: Voss (2), Maginness (2), Richardson (1), Orchard (1), Henry (1), Dodson (1), Campigli (1)
DISPOSALS
Casey Demons: Billings (36), Bonner (31), Hardie (26), Campbell (26)
Sandringham Zebras: Travaglia (31), Dow (27), McKenzie (25), Heath (24)
