Coaches Report – U18’s

Round 1 started with a change to the date and time with our game moved from the Summit to Hisense on Sunday because of the heat and the game was played in windy conditions which forced us to adapt, and the way the team embraced that was really pleasing.

We started well with the wind behind us, which gave us an early advantage. The boys competed and used the ball quite well. We created space up forward and made the most of our chances, kicking three early goals.

North Adelaide also challenged our defence well, especially when they got some control between the arcs and moved the ball quickly towards goal. But I thought we held up well, in particular Fletcher Dillon—he was outstanding in winning the ball back and stopping their momentum.

The second quarter was our best. We’ve worked hard on keeping our structure and making smart decisions in the conditions. The boys were patient, used the ball well, and kept the game on our terms. We kicked six goals to one, which was a great reward for following we process we set out many weeks ago.

In the third, we kept up the pressure and had plenty of chances but didn’t take full advantage. We played fast and long, which sometimes made it hard to keep control of the ball. Still, we went into the last quarter with a solid lead, which gave the boys plenty of confidence.

The final term wasn’t as polished as we would’ve liked. We were excellent in the contest but drifted away from what had worked earlier, and our positioning wasn’t quite right. We only managed one goal, which is something we’ll look at improving.

Winning by 29 points and having 24 scoring shots against a good opposition, is a strong way to start the season. More than anything, it was great to see the reward from the boys’ hard work during pre-season paying off.

Now we look ahead to our first home game against Norwood on Saturday, along with the Under-16s first minor round game.

Best Players
Fletcher Dillon, Mitch Marsh, Archie Walsh, Harper Ryan and Tom Kain

Goals
Mitchell Marsh 4.1; Anthony Long 2.5; Zanen Syrokos 2.1; Tahi Brain, Oliver Charlesworth, Lachlan Mintoff, Harper Ryan

Thanks for all your support, and we’ll see you next week.
Russell Godson
U18’s Head Coach