U18’s Match Report vs Norwood

Round 11 saw us head to The Parade to play Norwood for the third time this year. We had some changes to our side with there being no college football on and welcomed Marcus Pavlic in to the side for his first game of U18 football. Marcus has been training well all year and played a really impressive Under-17 carnival in April as a key forward.

After two terrific sessions on the track during the week, the mood in the rooms was positive before the game and the players seemed ready to go. Unfortunately not much went right for us in this match. To Norwood’s credit, they were excellent on the night. Their contested work and ball use was some of the best we’ve come up against this year.

On the other hand, we weren’t as sharp as we’ve been previously. Most disappointing was our ball use as we conceded 12 goals (to our 2) directly from turnover. We will reflect on this and dissect the reasons for it. I suspect it is a combination of Norwood’s outstanding pressure, as well as us trying to rush some things that weren’t on. I take some responsibility for this and need to ensure that my messaging is clearer on our speed of play and how we can vary this during matches.

In somewhat pleasing news, our second half was much more competitive and ensured the game didn’t completely get away – considering the margin was 43 points at half-time. Cain Satanek ensured we provided some resistance down back, Liam Westdijk used the ball well in a tough game, and Darcy Minchella competed well in the ruck and also adjusted to a new defensive role for him well.

We now have 2 weeks off and will use them to regroup and refresh for the next block of games. We have played lots of good footy this year and the group are determined to improve on our last couple of performances. I am pleased with the work the boys are doing behind the scenes to ensure we strive for growth and development. They are an excellent group to coach and I look forward to seeing what they can produce in our upcoming matches.

Best: Cain Satanek, Liam Westdijk, Darcy Minchella, Tyson Coe, Finn Higham, Oscar Kregar

Goals: Tom Scully (2), Jamie Kovacic, Jack Oates, Marcus Pavlic (1)

Paul Streatfield

Talent Manager & U18 Coach