For our opening game we had perfect sunny conditions at Castlefield. Our Captains today Ollie Ries and Fletcher Ockerby lead the boys out for 2017 and started by winning the toss. In the first quarter we started slow and our backs were under pressure, but held together well avoiding a greater deficit. Magnus unselfishly played the spare man in the square and stopped a few certain goals. The backline was well supported by Baxter and Lincoln pushing the ball forward at all costs with some good clean play hitting targets in the mid field.
In the second quarter we moved the ball quicker, running in numbers through the mid field and creating a few more opportunities for goal. Raphael marked and goaled after a great pass from Jake. Jody kicked a second goal and we were back in the game. Harry having a great quarter, flew in for a great mark at half back and we saw great tackling and endeavour from Theeran, Chris, Toby, Will and Campbell.
The third quarter tightened up and both teams remained goal less. Jade stood tall taking a strong mark in the pack, Daniel worked hard in and under the packs keeping his head over the ball. Seb and Ollie kept the pressure in the back line. The midfield was hard fought with Josh and Will providing good run through the middle.
In the last quarter we committed to running the game out and pushing the ball forward. Toby, Jake, Seb and Jody all started to find the ball and kick long to the forwards. Fletcher snapped the goal of the match after a good mark and playing on with a couple of baulks then Jade lined up and slotted our fourth goal of the day. The team played its best footy in the fourth quarter after being behind all day.
Overall a great first game of the season blooding five new players against strong opposition. We fought hard until the finish and we got stronger as the game went on. The boys all looked like they enjoyed themselves and the team seemed quite balanced all day.
Weekly Awards
- Outstanding Contribution – (Jake Ring) Jake had a great first game for the Rovers, getting involved in a few goals and played hard all day.
- Guts and determination – (Daniel Story) Dan showed courage and commitment in the packs keeping his head over the ball at every opportunity.
- Defensive Award – (Magnus Barton) In Magnus’ first game he followed the team rule and took on the role of spare man back in the square in quarters 1 and 4. He was instrumental is stopping a few certain East Malvern goals.
- Mark of Day (Harry Ockerby) – The team had a few good ones today but Harry came across the flow of traffic with eyes only for the ball taking a great mark and full reach. Super grab!
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