Coaches Report: U16s & 18s – Round 14

U16s – Round 14

West Adelaide (10.13.73) Vs Woodville-West Torrens (7.2.44)

On a bitterly cold and rain-soaked Friday night at Hisense Stadium, Round 14 saw a commanding performance as our Under 16 side produced a comprehensive display of maturity, resilience, and tactical excellence against the Eagles. From the opening bounce, the contest was played on your terms, with pressure, system, and drive combining to overwhelm an Eagles outfit and we ran out 29 point winners.

Despite the wintery conditions, the fundamentals were sharp and the intent undeniable. The territory battle was owned from the outset, with out team surging forward with control and purpose. The contested ball was fiercely pursued and repeatedly won, as reflected in the margin in contested possessions to our favour. The hunger to win the football in trying conditions spoke volumes about our side’s development and collective drive.

Statistical dominance told the tale. A +19 advantage in inside 50s reflected clear superiority in field position and ball movement, while the shot tally of 23 scoring shots to just 9,  highlighted the wave of opportunities created. Conversion in front of goal may have blunted the scoreboard impact slightly, but it didn’t obscure the control and territorial stranglehold that was evident throughout all four quarters.

Crucially, this performance came in the face of adversity. With nine changes to the side due to state football commitments, illness, and holidays, depth was tested and passed with flying colours. Each player stepping into the side embraced their role with composure and intensity, ensuring continuity in system and method. This speaks to the strength of the squad and a culture of readiness, where expectation meets opportunity.

This victory builds upon recent weeks of growth, showing a team whose game style is maturing, regardless of personnel. There is a growing sense of identity and belief in the method, and Friday night was a resounding affirmation.

Looking Ahead: Redemption Clash with North Adelaide

The next challenge comes in the form of North Adelaide — the side that inflicted our biggest loss this season of  100 points defeat just three weeks ago. With state representatives still unavailable, this fixture presents an opportunity for redemption. The wounds from that loss remain fresh, and the desire to respond with a far more competitive showing burns deeply.

This time, there’s intent to not just match the Roosters, but to restore pride, assert pressure, and demonstrate just how far the side has come. Expect a hardened edge, a fierce contest.

Best Players: Jones, Banks, Freund, DePalma, Hudson

Goal Kickers: Guerny 3, Banks. DePalma, Jones, Marks, Ryan, Sorensen, Williams.

Under 16 Coach

Jeff Sochacki

U18s – Round 14

West Adelaide (10.6.66) Vs Woodville-West Torrens (9.10.64)

On Friday afternoon, we hosted Woodville-West Torrens at Hisense Stadium in the annual Jake Watson Shield clash. With a soft deck underfoot from a busy week of games and showers in the forecast, we expected a tight contest which it turned out to be.

The first quarter was an even contest. Both sides had periods of control, with the Eagles starting the sharper of the two. However, we found some rhythm late and finished the quarter well, slotting two late goals to take a narrow lead into the break.

Our best patch of football came early in the second quarter, where we controlled the opening 15 minutes. We were able to score with three goals to stretch the margin. We held firm for most of the term, but to the Eagles’ credit, they surged back in the final 10 minutes and kept the pressure on heading into halftime.

At the main break, we spoke about tightening up our team defence and lifting our work rate around the ball. The players responded well early in the third, implementing our plans for the first part of the quarter. Unfortunately, we then lost control of the momentum for a large stretch, allowing the Eagles to kick five goals to our one and take the lead early in the last quarter.

Pleasingly, our group responded strongly and we were able to kick two goals and regain the lead halfway through the last term. The final 10 minutes Eagles had the ball in their forward third for the majority of time, but our boys held their nerve, fought out every contest to secure a two-point win – a hard-fought and satisfying result.

Winning the Jake Watson Shield for the first time in several years was a proud moment. It was made even more special by the presence of the families representing Jake Watson, Ben Mitchell, Glenn Knott and Corey Siemers including Jake’s three nieces who joined both teams for a photo with the shield post-game. A terrific reminder of the significance of this fixture.

Goal kickers: Lucas White (4), Tahi Brain (2), Charlie Bradford, Henry Francis, and Mitchell Marsh (1 each).

Best Players: Mitch Dickinson, Harper Ryan, Hamish Illman, Logan McCabe and Diego Bueti

– Russell Godson (U18s Coach)