U18’s Coaches Report – Round 18

Round 18 U18 Match Report

West Adelaide 12.15 (87) def. South Adelaide 10.9 (69)

Round 18 saw us host South Adelaide and other results earlier in the day meant they would be our opponents for two weeks in a row. We had 10 changes to our side with college football returning. Oscar Talbot (U16) came in for his first game of U18 football on the back of an impressive college and U16 season.

The scoreboard didn’t get off to a pretty start as we found ourselves 28 points behind early. It was clear to us what wasn’t working and after some minor tweaks we were able to get going from there on. Credit to the players who were able to adjust on the field quite quickly which isn’t always easy to do.

Once we settled and starting playing sensibly we were able to show that our game stacks up well against quality opposition. Our balance of defensive acts and offensive movement was pleasing to see and all players lived our Team First mantra by playing their role without caring about individual accolades.

Jed Obst (24 disposals), Kobe Ryan (24 disposals and 3 goals) and Tyson Coe (7 clearances) were all impressive in their returns from college football. Tom Scully was exciting up forward and Luke Young hit the scoreboard with 3 goals. Our defence held up well for the majority of the game led by Cain Satanek and Charlie Pridham.

Whilst it was pleasing to get over the line in this game, we have some things to work on to ensure we are better this weekend. This group will leave no stone unturned as we look forward to Saturday and aim for a strong performance. The boys are excited but not complacent. As their coach I’m proud of their efforts to date but I also know that our best footy could still be to come.

Best: Jed Obst, Kobe Ryan, Tyson Coe, Jesse Thackeray, Cain Satanek, Charlie Pridham.

Goals: Kobe Ryan, Luke Young (3), Tom Scully (2), Dylan White, Dylan McCormick, Lachlan Tredwell, Liam Westdijk (1)

Paul Streatfield
Talent Manager & U18 Coach