U18’s Match Report – Round 9 vs South Adelaide

Round 9 saw us play South Adelaide for the first time this year. We know they have a lot of quality players and can be quite dangerous. We had 6 changes to our side which included Jack Hutton who came in for his first game of Under-18 football as well as some players who had a bye from their college season.

One of our focus areas has been improving our first quarters. Pleasingly in this game we were able to capitalize on our early opportunities and took a 13 point lead in to the first change. This was then extended to 27 points at half time and, although South missed some opportunities, we were in control of the way the game was being played.

Bar a 5-minute fadeout in the third quarter, our second half was excellent. In particular our last quarter where we had 11 scoring shots to 2 and ran out 50 point winners. At ¾ time we spoke about the need to be more desperate in the contest and the boys were outstanding in the last quarter in this respect. Overall the whole group chipped in and played their role. We played the conditions well and were smart when the rain came in but also moved it with great urgency at other times.

Tyson Coe was outstanding in the midfield with 3 goals to go with his 28 disposals. Jameson Whitbourne played his best game of the year in the midfield and Judd Hansen was the most dangerous forward on the ground with 4 goals. Adam Bunworth continued his good form with 27 disposals and 11 tackles, Harry Barnett proved again why he is one of the best big men in the comp, and Jackson Allen was a rock down back all day.

I am pleased with the way the group responded from our loss the week before. The boys showed a great mix of inside contested ball and then flair and movement with the ball, probably our best 4-quarter performance of the season to date.

This week we face Glenelg at home. The match is on Saturday at 10:00am. We look forward to the challenge and hope to see many of you there.

Best: Tyson Coe, Jameson Whitbourne, Judd Hansen, Adam Bunworth, Harry Barnett, Jackson Allen

Goals: Judd Hansen (4), Tyson Coe (3), Jack Oates (2), Harry Barnett, Max Downs, Kade Hilton, Jack Hutton, Tyler Quinn, Liam Westdijk (1)

Paul Streatfield

Talent Manager & U18 Coach