Coaches Report: U16/18s – Round 15

U16s – Round 15

West Adelaide (7.15.57) Vs North Adelaide (12.6.78)

Coming into Round 15 with 11 changes to the side that previously faced North Adelaide, where we suffered a heavy 102-point defeat, we knew we’d be far more competitive this time around, especially given our strong form over the past three weeks.

Kicking against the wind, we were excellent at the contest, winning plenty of contested ball. However, we struggled to transition the ball with system and composure. Poor decision-making and ball security allowed North Adelaide to capitalise on turnovers, converting efficiently in front of goal. Despite this, we held them to 4.1 while scoring 1.2 ourselves, a solid defensive effort under pressure.

With the wind at our backs, we gained control and played front-half football. Our ball movement was methodical, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Unfortunately, we were wasteful in front of goal, kicking 3.7 to North’s 3.0, trailing by 10 points at the half. Inaccurate set shots became a defining theme of the day.

We came out determined to be composed and patient with our ball movement. For most of the quarter, we executed this well, applying consistent pressure and using the width of the ground effectively. However, two late goals in red time and continued missed set shots saw us fall behind by 20 points at the final break.

Despite trailing, we remained confident, knowing we had been in the contest all day. Once again, we controlled the ball and generated good looks at goal but couldn’t convert. We kicked 1.4 for the quarter, finishing with 7.15 for the match, 9 of those behinds were missed set shots. North Adelaide winning by 21 points.

While the scoreboard didn’t reflect our competitiveness, the missed opportunities in front of goal were costly. The boys showed great effort and intent, and we’ll take valuable lessons from this performance as we head into the bye week. We look forward to regrouping and preparing for our next challenge against Norwood at home.

Best Players: L Baldwin, H Farquar, S DePalma, H Banks, H Hazelton

Goal Kickers: H Abbot, L Baldwin, C Gurney, C Jones, D Marks, N Martinson, H Williams

Under 16 Coach

Jeff Sochacki

U18s – Round 15

West Adelaide (12.12.84) Vs North Adelaide (3.6.36)

On Saturday, we hosted North Adelaide in the first game of a triple-header at Hisense Stadium.

Kicking into a breeze to start, we were put under immediate pressure by a proactive North outfit. Our contest and defensive systems were tested early, and although the ball lived in their half for much of the quarter, we were able to hold firm and restrict them to 4 scoring shots. The backline worked hard with minimal rest and held up well under pressure.

At quarter time, we discussed out intent, and with the breeze in our favour in the second term, we were able to lock the ball inside our forward half for long stretches. This territorial advantage helped us hit the scoreboard and head into the main break with a lead.

Our focus at half-time was on maintaining pressure and contest work despite going back into the breeze. To the boys’ credit, they lifted again in the third quarter and executed at a really high level. We outscored North Adelaide and set up a healthy margin heading into the final term.

The last quarter saw us get some good offensive chains going and play the game on our terms. North did have a strong period where they won field position and put us under pressure, but we were able to absorb it and finish the game well.

Overall, it was a strong performance across the board. The group stuck to the pre-game objectives, played the way we wanted for most of the contest, and were rewarded for their work.

Player Highlights

Lincoln Pitt was judged best on ground with a standout performance around stoppage and in general play. His aerial dominance and impact at both ends were vital to the result.

Jo Raphael applied elite pressure across both midfield and forward roles, constantly putting the opposition under stress.

Harper Ryan stood up in his defensive role and impressed with clean fundamentals and smart ball use.

Tahi Brain was our top midfielder on the day, winning territory and showing composure with ball in hand.

Henry Martinella was our most dangerous forward, finishing with three goals in a strong display.

A special mention to a few of our younger boys playing their first or second Under-18s games. They all competed well, and it was pleasing to see Angus Hooper grow in confidence in our forward half as the game progressed.

Goals: Henry Martinella (3.2), Angus Hooper (2), Jock Millar (2.2), Lucas White (2.1), Charlie Bradford (1), Tahi Brain (1), Mitchell Marsh (1.3)

We now head into a bye week before facing Norwood in our last home game at Hisense Stadium in what will be another good challenge for the group. See you then.

– Russell Godson – U18s Coach.