Hampton Rovers 3.4.22 v South Melbourne 5.5.35
The storm that threatened our early morning game in Albert Park, failed to turn up, and instead presented fair conditions for a great competition between these two teams. Last time we met, we fought a tough battle down to the wire, and felt the sweet taste of victory. The 5 point win was our first since being moved up to Div 1.
After strong performances last week, Jem Thomas and Matt Gleeson led us out as captains for the day. It was clear that this game was going to be another great one between two fairly evenly matched groups. Although our side was down to only 17, the boys were fired up at the chance to again sing our Rovers song.
Sometimes it takes us a while to get our groove on. It was a slow first half. Less than our best, and we all knew we were capable of much more. At the half time break, we spoke about our belief in turning it around, and all contributing as a united team. South Melbourne’s defence pressure was strong. We had to work harder and run in numbers, shepherd more and create space to move the ball forward, and lock it into our 50.
The boys really lifted in the second half. The response was terrific. Our pressure was harder, we were more focussed, and with determination we saw some lovely passages of play. Our effectiveness moving the ball forward saw goals from Mitch Tuffley, Matt Gleeson and Joe Webber.
Outstanding performances were awarded to Joe Webber, Harry Tuffley, Orlando Lynch, Jordan Rao & Mitch Tuffley.
We are very much looking forward to our final match next week when we face Brighton Beach. Our last role of the dice. I encourage all parents, friends and supporters to get down to to Brighton Beach Oval next Sunday at 10am to see our final match. The boys are pumped for a final chance to sing “Oh we do like to be beside the seaside”.
Tim Sutherland
Coach
