Another loss at the coin toss had us kicking against the wind, however that was the only similarity to our first game. Our players were focussed and switched on from the start, which resulted in us breaking even at quarter time. Plenty of pressure was applied across the entire ground which reduced the space and our defenders guarded space superbly. Theeran G in his 50th game for the club was our rock in backline and was well supported by Baxter M and Tom H.
The second and third quarters, we played a game style which wasn’t pretty to watch as the game was played in close without much run and carry, trying to contain Beaumaris in the hope to explode in the last quarter. Most of the ball was played in our forward line in the last quarter as we pushed hard for the win. Unfortunately, time ran out after Fletcher O kicked a fantastic goal.
Harry O didn’t stop running all day collecting plenty of the ball, Jack C and Jade D provided valuable support at either end of the ground. The most promising display came from our taller players, with Chris W taking strong marks and kicking the ball deep into the forward line and Javier C was everywhere. Contesting the ruck, marking, kicking and tackling.
It’s difficult to measure our team’s performance to date until the grading phase is complete, but I couldn’t be prouder of how the players are listening, then actioning our pressure / tackling game.
This week at training we are going to work on positioning our bodies in close, using our shoulders and hips, so we can release the ball out to a teammate in space.
Overall, a great team effort.
Final Score
Hampton Rovers 1 2 8
Beaumaris Black Tails 1 5 11
Captains for Round 2: Jade D & Jack S
Game Awards:
Outstanding Contribution: Javier C
Guts and Determination: Harry O
Team Goals Award: Chris M
Coaches Award: Theeran G
Coach – Ben Smith
