U18’s Match Report – Round 3

Round 3 saw us face Central District back at home. We had 7 changes to the side and this included Tom Mickan and Ethan Wagner for their first Under-18 games at the club, from the Mallee and Riverland respectively. After a narrow loss the week before we were keen to get back on the oval and show that we’re still improving on our focus areas.

Overall I was pleased with most aspects of this game. After a slow first 10 minutes we got ourselves going and were able to play our way for the majority. The boys showed good composure with the ball and varied the pace of the game well. Whilst the clearance count was even for the match, I was happy with the way we converted our opportunities to inside-50 entries of good quality which made us dangerous in front of goal. Our defenders were calm with the ball and made sensible decisions more often than not to get the ball going back our way.

To the Bulldogs credit, they had some nice patches in the game and made us pay if we were slightly off. They ran the game out well and kicked the last 3 goals which reduced the final margin to 42 points.

Tom Scully was again dominant up forward kicking 7 goals straight, while Max Downs chipped in with 3 goals in his best U18 game to date. Jameson Whitbourne took a game high 10 marks on the back of excellent work-rate through the midfield, while Kobe Ryan had a game-high 9 clearances to continue his good start to the year. Oscar Kregar was impressive on a wing again, Harry Barnett positioned himself around the ground well in addition to being the dominant ruck on the ground, and Finn Higham returned from illness with an impressive 22 disposals off half-back.

This Thursday night we travel to Woodville to face the Eagles. We have great respect for their club and what they’ve been able to sustain over a long period of time. We are ready for the challenge and will look to continue to build on our football. Hopefully we will see a lot of red and black in the stands, as the support we’ve had so far has been terrific and is greatly appreciated.

Best: Tom Scully, Jameson Whitbourne, Kobe Ryan, Oscar Kregar, Max Downs, Harry Barnett

Goals: Tom Scully (7), Max Downs (3), Tom Mickan (2), Harrison Barker, Harry Barnett, Judd Hansen, Darcy Minchella (1)

Paul Streatfield
Talent Manager & U18 Coach