Round 13: Football Played the Way It Should Be. Hard & Fast!

I think I’ve developed an intolerance to losing after a bout of gastro post the game ... this being reason for my delayed match review. This gave me plenty of time to think about the game and what more we could have done to end up with a different result on the score board. Clearly the boys gave their all, they put their bodies on the line, ran themselves ragged and stuck to the game plan. We cannot ask for more.

It was a physical affair at Alfred Crescent with our little warriors certainly boxing out of their weight division. It was suburban football at its best with two teams committed to giving their all until the final siren. The score board did not reflect the manner in which the game was played and level of competitiveness displayed by both teams.

The only real difference was St Marys' physical size. We matched them on skill, on attitude and on effort. Our boys deserved to walk off the ground with their heads held high.

A strong breeze to one end of the ground was a factor in the scoring as we started the game with a rush of scoring opportunities and conversions. St Marys were up to the challenge by using the wind to their advantage in the 2nd quarter to go into half time at a stalemate.

We spoke of choices and decision making throughout the morning and set (for the 1st time) expectations on our boys. We expected them to run the game out, kick long and move the ball quickly. In the 3rd quarter we placed some score board pressure, but St Marys' height became a factor as they were able to out-mark us during critical stages of the game.

With a couple on minutes to go, the score board was all square. With St Marys kicking with the wind, they kicked a goal and another straight away to seal the game.

It was pleasing to receive some feedback from the opposition coach. He commented on how much we had improved in skill and how quick we were ... that type of feedback was pleasing to receive on behalf of our team.

From Round 11, our aim was to improve in every game for the remainder of the season. So far, we're on track......


This week: Surrey Park In Surrey Park, WHITE SHORTS.
Be at the ground at 9:15am

Venue Address: cnr Canterbury & Elgar Rds, Surrey Hills

Phone: 98987282
Map Reference: 47 B11