U18’s Match Report – Round 13

You never quite know what to expect when you arrive for a match, and this match was a clear example of that. We travelled to Elizabeth for our round 13 match knowing that we were close to putting our best football together after some patches recently, but also knowing that Central are no easy task and are always up for the fight. We had 4 changes to our side from the week before and in exciting news, Harry Barnett was called up to make his league debut – joining Harry Lemmey and Kobe Ryan as U18’s to have played league football this year.

Fast-forward three hours, and our group had played their best game for the year by a long way. The group showed that they were totally committed to doing whatever they could to show their team-mates what their best football looks like, and that they are driven to be relentless at the contest for the entirety of the match. This was highlighted with some desperate acts which incredibly held Central scoreless at half-time while we were able to score 16 goals ourselves. Our ball use, decision making, and defensive transition was faultless early and is largely a result of the work the boys have been putting in on the track.

The most pleasing aspect for me in this game was that everyone was switched on and ready when called upon. The forwards showed more urgency and pressure than we have seen all year, the defenders were on their toes and ready when called upon, and the mids covered the ground tremendously well. I was super impressed that we ran the game out well and kicked a further 7 goals in the last quarter when it would have been easy to put the cue in the rack… but this group won’t be doing that for the remainder of the season!

Ultimately this was a day where everyone contributed and played their role. It seems strange singling out individuals after such a strong team effort but we do need to name best players each week, which was a tough task after this match. Harry Lemmey was dominant up forward with 6 goals from 18 disposals and 10 marks, Lukas Zvaigzne kicked 5 goals in his first game in a new role up forward and Adam Bunworth played probably his best game for the club with 3 goals to go with his 23 disposals and 9 tackles. Jamie Kovacic was impressive with 20 disposals and 3 goals, whilst Liam Westdijk and Judd Hansen continued on their good form.

This week we face North Adelaide at home on Saturday before the league game. We are excited and ready for the challenge and look forward to having your support there. The boys continue to learn and are showing great commitment to developing their games both individually and as a team.

Best: Harry Lemmey, Adam Bunworth, Lukas Zvaigzne, Liam Westdijk, Jamie Kovacic, Judd Hansen

Goals: Harry Lemmey (6), Lukas Zvaigzne (5), Adam Bunworth, Jamie Kovacic, Judd Hansen, Tom Scully (3), Lachlan Tredwell (2)

Paul Streatfield

Talent Manager & U18 Coach