Coaches Report - R7
A's B's & C's vs SHOC; E's vs Uni and LOSA vs Salisbury North
A Grade Match Report: Round 7 v SHOC
Every game is critical in this competition but at home on a marque occasion for the club added an extra element to the game. Conditions were less than ideal with Mother Nature keen to impact to make the game a grind.
The opener didn’t surprise with the conditions clearly proving to be a factor in the tone and flow of the game. Our opponents adjusted and settled quicker than us kicking the game’s first goal and building valuable scoreboard pressure. While we were able to generate entries inside 50, through the hard work of our midfield in Baldwin, Tranfa, Murada and our miserly back 6 lead by Josh Shute we were unable to convert. The deficit at the first break siting at an uncomfortable 13 points.
We pride ourselves on ‘being comfortable being uncomfortable ‘, so the message at the break , trust the plan, claim territory and play a forward half game. The quarter was more of the same, creating more opportunities inside 50 but unable to build the scoreboard. Our intensity and work rate was there we just couldn’t buy a goal kicking 4 consecutive behinds until a coast-to-coast transition generated by Josh Shute saw Jules Piro on the end of some strong ball movement kicking an outstanding running goal. It was one we needed heading into the main break just 8 points behind.
The third was a different story…! Having broken the drought of goals we knew we needed to take advantage of a break in the conditions to take control of the contest. Eventual best on ground, Will Mead went into the middle and with his electric speed and ball use generated the run and carry we needed to break the game open. Contributions across the side crystallised with 10 scoring shots from 13 entries was the tale of the tape which gave us a 9-point lead at the final break.
The huddle at three quarter time was full of confidence with energy generated from the huge crowd of Past players and supporters surrounding the players willing the side to maintain the momentum. We know in footy close games can be decided by the side can manage the moments that present. Our opponent knew the gravity of the final result and ran the gauntlet at every opportunity. Time and time again our back 6 held firm with the gap having been closed to 4 points. The first moment presented when Connor Butcher, in driving rain was the last player 5metres from our opponent’s goal laying a team lifting ROCK SOLID tackle saving a certain goal. The game was not done.
With under 5 minutes the second moment presented when the opposition kicked an unlikely goal from the boundary to take the lead back by 2 points. The players returned to the middle, stayed measured and trusted the plan. The next 4 minutes felt like an entirety for all who were on hand. Then the final moment presented, from a boundary thrown backward of centre circle, Jett Boxer won the clearance launching a long torpedo from one step which was marked with one hand by our captain Stef Lanzoni. 1min 19 seconds left on the clock. In ROCK SOLID style Lanzoni went back and kicked a clutch captain’s goal to take back the lead by just 4 points. The final moments were frenetic which saw a rush behind to our opponent cutting the winning margin to 3 points on the final siren.
The advantages of playing at home are well documented across all codes in sport with the opposition’s agenda to silence the home crowd always a high priority in every away encounter. What our opponents on Saturday didn’t expect to experience when arriving at CMO was the true STRENGTH in our club and Community. The very fabric of our club our Past Players. There is no doubt the incredible support of this group had a material impacted on the players lifting their individual and collective performance to seal a vital and thrilling three-point victory.
A game we will again review and look to learn from following a well-deserved break before round 8 in two weeks’ time.
Final Score: ROCFC 6.14 (50) defeated SHOC 6.10 (47)
Goal Kickers: J. Boxer 2, S. Lanzoni 1, J. Piro 1, T. McCormack 1, C. Kemp 1.
Best Players: W. Mead, B. Baldwin, E. Murada, X. Tranfa, C. Kemp
See you at the footy.
Bootsy
A Grade and Club Coach
B Grade Match Report: Round 7 v SHOC
Round 7 was all about seeing where we are at as a group when coming up against a side that has had our measure in recent years and currently sits on top of the ladder.
Firstly, we would like to thank Darren McCormack for sharing a fantastic story about our club's heritage as part of Past Players Day. The players thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the history and traditions that have helped shape our football club.
The first quarter was a masterclass from our opponents, and credit must be given where credit is due. They moved the ball exceptionally well and put us under enormous pressure. It was a challenging start, and we were grateful for the quarter-time break to regroup.
Unfortunately, the second quarter began much the same way. We showed a few signs of slipping back into old habits, something we have worked incredibly hard to move away from this season. However, what stood out was the group's unwavering belief in one another. Slowly but surely, we began to wrestle back some momentum and compete on our terms. We went into half-time trailing by 53 points, a significant challenge that required an honest response from the group.
What followed in the third quarter was a complete reversal of fortunes. We returned to playing our brand of football with courage, intensity and purpose. Our ball movement through the corridor improved dramatically, and our ability to win important contested possessions allowed us to take control of large periods of the game. The result was a quarter-winning performance that reduced the margin and gave us something to build on heading into the final term.
With nothing to lose in the last quarter, the group continued to attack the contest and once again outscored our opponents. The energy, effort and exciting brand of football on display had our past players up and about, cheering loudly as they watched this young group refuse to give in. In the end, we went down by 33 points to a well-established side with far more experience.
What continues to impress is the belief, resilience and character shown by this young group. There is no doubt that in previous years a game in that position could have finished very differently. At half-time we had effectively lost our bench through injury, while several players battled through soreness and knocks to remain on the field. Their willingness to put the team and club first and support their teammates when the game was at its toughest, is a perfect example of the red and black spirit we are building.
While the result didn't fall our way, the growth of this group was on full display. The commitment to each other, the ability to respond under pressure, and the refusal to give up are all signs that this young side is moving in the right direction. The future is extremely bright, and everyone involved should be proud of the progress being made.
Lastly, it was fantastic to see the playing group's support for the LOSA Ladies' Stand Against Violence Against Women initiative. Ongoing education and awareness in this space are vital, and while our club's contribution may seem small, every conversation and every action help create positive change within our community.
Violence against women is never acceptable. It has no place in our homes, our sporting clubs, or our communities. Together, we can continue to promote respect, safety and equality for all.
Final Scores: ROCS 8:2 (50) defeated by SHOC 12:11 (83)
Best Players: L. Rust, T. Bradford, H. Shute, A. Davis, H. Maxwell, M. Daw
Goal Kickers: L. Rust 3, M. Daw 2, J. Haddad 1, S. Carey 1, A. Ismail 1
Jamie Thomas
B Grade Coach
C Grade Match Report: Round 7 v SHOC
Intercol. The biggest rivalry on the college/collegiate calendar. It’s a game that you go all in on. 110% committed. Another ‘W’ is up for grabs but not just any ‘W’, it’s bragging rights as well. For the C grade, it’s an opportunity to knock off the reigning premiers. Our game stacks up against the best. We knew that if we’re disciplined and played two-way football we would get the job done.
The first quarter was outstanding. Probably the best first quarter of football that we have played so far this year. Our pressure and intensity around the ball was ferocious, and we played some really smart football in what was trying conditions. Jumping out to a three goal to one goal first term lead.
The second and third quarter became a really tightly contested ball game. Nothing really came clean in those quarters. Conditions varied throughout, and we were still playing some solid football but just couldn’t put it on the scoreboard at times.
The fourth quarter was going to be one of opportunity. Which team is going to make the most of the moments when they present themselves. Unfortunately we couldn’t finish off on those moments. Our last possession going forward let us down, which resulted in turnovers and ultimately allowing SHOC to make the most of their opportunity. A bitter pill to swallow. However, as a team we will learn from these moments and these scenarios and we will be better for it when we are in similar situations.
Harrison Twiggs, Fabian Di Lulio, Riordan McNamara, Thomas Matsis and Adam Greenwood were fantastic all day. I can’t give all the credit to those guys. Even though we lost, the whole team showed up as a united front. There endeavour and their willingness to keep competing for all four quarters was impressive.
Special mention to Ash Wakelin. Was originally the runner but came into the side with about 10mins before the start of the game. Well done to Ash for showing up in the manor that he did and playing a role in the team.
Final Scores: ROCS 6.6 (42) defeated by SHOC 8.9 (57)
Goal Kickers: D. Matthews 2, M. Aufderheide 1, H. Twiggs 1, A. Greenwood 1, J. Smith 1
Best Players: H. Twiggs, F. Di IuIio, R. McNamara, T. Matsis, A. Greenwood
Enjoy the long weekend and look forward to fronting up against Gullies.
Choo Choo!
Nick Karagich
C Grade Coach
D Grade - BYE
E Grade Match Report: Round 7 v Adelaide Uni
Our first real challenge this season with 1 vs 3. Uni away in tough conditions was always looking tough.
Selection had its usual challenges with lots out and lots in. Players debuting this were Daniel Bailey who unfortunately tweak a hammy, Fanta premiership player for me in ’23, hot off a ultra marathon, and Liam Holland who was sensational and his presence compliments a great forward line.
John Lewis took the first quarter as coach, and I’d say it was our best. However, the rain came which probably doesn’t suit our team that well.
It’s time for a shoutout to our younger brigade. George Kemp is always good, Blake Walker-Roberts get better each week, but lots of credit goes to James Nyvlit and Ollie Kirkman, who have never not done what has been asked of them, with J-Mac away they shared the ruck duties in tough conditions. Charlie Brasher has given us more options around the ground so well done to all.
Backline was as strong as ever and will always be what wins us matches, Henry Dawson being the best of them. But the game is ultimately won in the middle and our mids didn’t disappoint. Craig Holm and Chris Ash were sensational, Lachie Spehr is getting better each week, Tim Lewis’s bodywork is invaluable, Josh Massie was brilliant.
Up forward was a coach’s dream. Tom Jonas, Paul Fantasia and the Holland brothers Liam and Kieran what can I really say. We sit on top of the tree, with a couple of weeks off we then meet Walkersville at home in a twilight match. 1 vs 2 this is a blockbuster and would love to see as many there as possible. It maybe Darren Leggett’s 200th game, even more reason to come see the “Entertainment “in action.
Final Scores: ROCS 12.17 (89) defeated Adelaide Uni 3.10 (28)
Best Players: C. Holm, J. Massie, L. Spehr, H. Dawson, L. Holland
Goal Kickers: T. Jonas 3, L. Holland 3, C. Ash 2, C. Holm, G. Kemp, C. Brasher, P. Fantasia 1 each.
Tony Franzon
E Grade Coach
R7 - Loreto OS 01 02 (08) defeated by Salisbury North 06 13 (49)
Goal Scorers: Tayla Gordon 1
Best Players: Abbie Deegan, Tayla Gordon, Jacinta Beltrame, Charlene Lee, Scarlett Pearce
