U18’s Match Report – Round 12

After two consecutive byes we finally returned to the field to face Sturt for the second time this season. Whilst we had some changes to our side, all players had played U18 football before for us and it was good to see some of them back in action after returning from college or state football as well as some injuries.

We started the game really well with Harry Lemmey kicking our first goal in the opening minutes after some nice work in the midfield to get the ball going our way. The remainder of the first term was a tight contest and scores were level at ¼ time with both teams managing one goal each.

In the second quarter we had our fair share of the ball but couldn’t finish off our work. Sturt were better at taking their chances but I still felt at half-time that we were in the game and it hadn’t broken open yet either way. Unfortunately we lost Tyson Coe just before half-time after his Achilles was landed on which meant he took no further part in the game.

Our third quarter saw us play some of our best football for the year. We kicked 5 goals including 2 to Jamie Kovacic. Our pressure around the ball increased noticeably and we were winning more one on one contests. The margin at ¾ time was 7 points in Sturts favour but we had caught up and were within striking distance.

Our last quarter was disappointing, which is unusual as we have run out game quite well most of the year. Sturt kicked an early goal and we couldn’t get ourselves going after that. The effort was certainly there and didn’t drop off, but we made some crucial errors with the ball that you just can’t make against quality sides like Sturt.

Result aside, I though we took some steps forward in this game. We aren’t far off putting it together and when we do it will be good to watch and fun to play. This week we play Central District at Elizabeth on Saturday and we look forward to getting out there for a good hitout.

Best: Adam Bunworth, Charlie Kitto, Will Patton, Harry Barnett, Finn Higham, Kyan Eagleton

Goals: Jamie Kovacic, Harry Lemmey (2), Kyan Eagleton, Oscar Kregar (1)

Paul Streatfield