R1 Coaches Report & Game Highlights
R1 vs PAC and Photos & Video highlights from the games
The A grade started off their big match up with PAC very slowly, making too many skill errors early in the game which allowed PAC many opportunities on goal. Thankfully the boys down back were fantastic, especially Lewis McCormack and Charles Jordan. Once we settled later in the quarter we were able to move the ball effectively through the PAC zone and kick the last three goals of the quarter.
The second quarter was much of the same in a tight contest with neither side able to take control of the game. However one highlight was Kaya Scott kicking his first goal with his first kick in his first game. Kaya has come to us from the College and we look forward to plenty more goals in years to come. We went into the half break down by 3 points but with plenty to improve on.
In the second half, the midfield started to take control with James Butterworth giving us first use and Luke Manual and Tom O'Malley took full advantage. Heath Commane (3 goals) was starting to get dangerous up forward as we went in to the final change a goal in front.
After a tough pre season with new fitness coach JT (John Turner) we had every confidence we would be the fitter side late in the game and that certainly showed, kicking the first two goals of the last quarter. To PAC's credit, they wouldn't go away, tightening the margin back to only a goal about half the way through the last quarter. I was extremely proud go how the boys kept pushing all way through to the final siren as we ending up winning by 10 points.
Lewis McCormack was enormous down back for us in a new role. Luke Manual got plenty of the football through the midfield and kicked 2 great goals. Tom O'Malley played a great game nullifying one of their best midfielders, while also getting plenty of the ball himself. James Butterworth certainly won the ruck battle and kicked an important goal late and Charles Jordan was his usual selfless self down back. Heath Commane worked his way into the game, kicking two important goals late, making it three for the match.
A huge congratulations to Paul Fantasia who played his 150th game on the weekend. Fanta has been a fantastic player for the club for many years and his loved by all.
The A Grade have another massive game against big rivals the Payneham Falcons next Saturday at home. Please get along and support the boys.
Will O'Malley
A Grade Coach
Please see the attached photos from round 1 that have been taken by Claude Beltrame. Massive thanks to Belts!! Some great photos.
R1 PICS - A's
R1 PICS - B's C's & D's
