Finals Week 3
B's & C's Prelim. Report
Saturday saw the ROCS B and C Grade teams play Adelaide University in Preliminary Finals, at Tea Tree Gully (Pertaringa Oval).
After a slow start, the C Grade battled hard against a taller opponent, but were eventually beaten 5.6 to 9.5.
John McCarron led our best players, followed by Jake Bowler and Joe Tarca. Ryan Grigg, Carlton Hollsten
and Mick Aloisi were also impressive.
Steve "Super-Coach" Edwards would have been justifiably proud of the player's performances during 2017, although obviously disappointed the team isn't going to the "Big Dance" this weekend. Stevo has received great support from his captain Matt Sauer, along with senior players Paul "Chuck" and Glen Norris, Simon Emanuele, son Haydn Edwards, and the extremely well organised Team-Manager, Keith "Mr. Chuck" Norris.
The B's played a solid 4 quarters, but the final score-line saw ROCS go down 7.7 to 8.3. For the second time in 3 weeks, the B's were involved in some "interesting" umpiring decisions (or non-decisions) late in the game.
Scott Gilbert and Zac Noonan continued with their outstanding form. Josh O'Leary played very well in his 100th ROCS appearance. Chris Ash was impressive despite playing under difficulty, whilst Nathan Hornhardt and Chris Pahl were other major contributors.
Damien Polkinghorne has been a keen and committed coach, and his team was eventually knocked out by a side that had lost only 1 game in the minor round. "Polky" was well supported by Assistant Coach Paul Schaftenaar, his father David Polkinghorne, Team Manager Phil Franklyn and Runner Tom Moore.
Special thanks to Dean Lord for "time-keeping" in just about every ROCS game in 2017.
The focus now turns to the A Grade. After an outstanding year thus far, Adrian Rocco's team faces one last hurdle.
This Saturday ROCS are up against Payneham Norwood Union, at Thebarton Oval (Aldi Arena), 2.30pm.
Training will be at Thebarton on Tuesday, then back at Campbelltown for the Thursday night team selecrtion/meals.
We urge all past Players, Officials, Volunteers and Supporters to come along to the 2017 Grand Final.
The players will greatly appreciate the full backing of the ROCS Army.
Rino Cialini
Football Director
