League Match Report – Round 10

In a hard-fought clash at Alberton Oval, our League side faced off against Port Adelaide in a game that proved to be a test of resilience for group.

From the onset, we faced adversity as injuries mounted early in the match, losing Darcy Minchella, Jordy White and Hamish Ellem prior to half time. Joel Stevens battled through three quarters of the game with a lower leg injury and Brady Searle succumbed to a knee problem in the final quarter. As the coach of this young squad, I could not have been prouder of how our players responded under such trying circumstances. Despite these setbacks, our team rallied and showcased their grit and commitment to each other, to our jumper and to our club.

The first quarter proved to be the stumbling block, marred by lapses in fundamentals, communication breakdowns, and inconsistencies in our contest methods and shape. Port Adelaide capitalized on these errors, gaining an early advantage on the scoreboard, 6 goals to 1 at the quarter time break.

After addressing these key areas, we were able to get a lift in intensity around the contest, gain territory and field position, and we were able to score off the back of it. Seven points the margin at the half.

With only one rotation on the bench and with Port aided by a 2-3 goal breeze, our focus was on conserving as much energy as possible in the third quarter to leave something in the tank for a charge at Port Adelaide in the last quarter. Repeat stoppages and uncontested marks the focus as we aimed to stifle Port’s offence. We were valiant until two critical moments late in the term lead to two Port Adelaide goals and a deficit of 22 points at three quarter time.

In the final quarter we closed to within 8 points when Joel Stevens kicked truly 12 minutes into the term, but we couldn’t bridge the gap, ultimately succumbing to a final margin of 20 points.

Sam Frost, Brady Searle and Kobe Ryan showcased their relentless efforts through the Midfield, while it was a welcome return for Josh Gore who had five shots on goal. Josh Ryan played a strong game in defence for us, also.

Despite the final score not swinging in our favor, the efforts of our boys did not go unnoticed. Our players’ unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of adversity highlights their character and determination. As we regroup and recover from injuries, we look forward to bouncing back stronger this weekend against Glenelg, Sunday at home.

Best: Sam Frost, Kobe Ryan, Riley Corbett

Goals: J. Gore, J. Sinderberry (2), H. Ellem, S. Frost, I. Johnson, D. McCormick, B. Searle, J. Stevens (1)

League Coach – Adam Hartlett