Hampton Rovers 9.8.62 defeated Caulfield Bears 4.2.26
To begin the serious part of the season after the grading rounds, we faced the Caulfield Bears on their home turf. The pre-game message was simple. If we wanted to earn the right to play finals, we had to begin the journey here. We had to start as we intended to finish season. And a strong start is what unfolded.
Our first quarter made a statement to all who witnessed it, that we are here for business. All it takes is for every boy to do his part, play his role and back himself. The confidence then follows. We were a powerhouse out of the middle with Luke Ryan starting in the ruck, often winning the ball quickly out of the centre through a combination of the quick hands of Taj Hotton and Mitch Tuffley. Jem Thomas was again outstanding and played another consistent performance as our defensive midfielder. Our back 6 built a robust wall lead by our defensive ‘General’ Joe Weber. Likewise Harry Tuffley was relentless off the half back flank, and supported by Orlando Lynch and Max Rafaniello. Christian Beare really stood up to show his defensive strength with some power tackles. Jacob Cassidy showed his versatility with solid roles both up forward and deep in the backline. Jay Todd wasn’t getting much of the action as Full Back for the first half, so we switched him up forward for the second. That proved a good decision, as he was lion let out of a cage, and kicked 3 goals in the third quarter. Matt Gleeson showed why he loves it at half forward, putting 2 majors on the scoreboard. As well as another extra-ordinary game Taj Hotton almost kicked goal of the year with a Ronaldo-like kick over his head while on the ground. Jeddy Marshall, Thomas Westerbeek & Mitch Nolan were ruthless again and showed that size does not matter, laying some monster tackles. Ant held his position on the wing, and Freddie got involved too, proving it was a complete team effort.
With our team spirit building each week, we are starting to play a fast, free flowing brand of footy. The group is really bonding, and growing in confidence.
Goals: Jay Todd 3, Mitch Tuffley 2, Matt Gleeson 2, Taj Hotton 1, Tom Westerbeek 1
Awards: Dion Gavnoudias took the achievement award for his courage and effort, Jay Todd won the G&D Award for his brutal attack in the forward line taking 3 goals, and Luke Ryan earned the player of the day for an outstanding 4 quarter performance in Ruck and across half back.
I would also at this point of the season like to thank a few people who are the backbone of this team. Firstly thanks to Chris Gleeson our Assistant Coach who’s energy and passion for the game and the boys development is boundless. Thanks to our amazing Runner Brett (Lynchy) who never stops, and support of coaching dynamics is invaluable. And an enormous thank you must go out to our Dynamic Duo of Team Managers Paul Ryan, Di Thomas & Cara Julian. You guys have been amazing. Our engine is running beautifully thanks to you.
A very good start to the season. And I have a feeling the best is yet to come.
Tim Sutherland
Coach
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