The Highfields Lions under14's have sent a warning to the rest of the competition as they defeated the previously undefeated Coolaroo 14's 5.5 (35) to 4.8 (32).
This win not only ended Coolaroo's undefeated run in 2012 but also handed key on-baller BJ Shelton his first ever loss in a Roo's jumper. Shelton had never lost a game until the weekend’s loss. Shelton has played a key role in the golden era of wins, which started in round 1, 2010 and up until the weekend this group of Roo's had never lost a game.
Highfields V Coolaroo Wrap Up
A game played in two halves, as Highfields dominated the first half and a late charge by Coolaroo was still not enough to get them over the line.
Highfields started the better of the two teams and kicked three goals to zero in the opening term as Highfields flexed their muscles in the opening quarter. This is the first time this season a side has been able to keep Coolaroo goal-less in any quarter of a game.
The Lions were able to stretch the quarter time lead of 20points out to 26 by the long break. The young Roo’s kicked 1 goal to the Lions 2 in the second term.
You would have loved to be a fly on the wall in the Coolaroo change-rooms at halftime because whatever Coach Jon Wiedman said inspired the young Roo’s, as they came out after the long break a different football team.
Coolaroo kicked two unanswered goals very quickly in the third quarter and at the same time kept Highfields to just the one behind for the term. Shelton, Copland and Sprason lifted it up another gear and went into the final break only down by 13points.
It was a wasteful Coolaroo in the final quarter as they had six scoring shots to Highfields one but Coolaroo were only able to convert one of those six shots into a major. Scoring 1.5 for the term, again keeping Highfields goal-less showed the strength of the powerhouse Roo’s.
Highfields were able to hang on for a memorable 3point victory at home, as Highfields defender Samuel Stahlhut was given best on ground honours.
What the win means for Highfields
Sitting third on percentage and two wins behind the all conquering Roo’s, this gives the young Lions the opportunity of the all important second chance. With Dalby hosting Coolaroo in round 14 and Highfields travelling to Riddles Oval to face the Hawks, the Lions could see themselves go from third to first in the matter of a week.
What the loss means for Coolaroo
Coolaroo would have wanted to win this game, as every time a team takes to the field their goal is to win but dropping this game will not hurt the young Roo’s. The loss may put the fire back in the belly of the Young Roo’s but they will need to be bouncing next week, as they face the Swans at Owen Street who are coming off an impressive win over Goondiwindi. A loss to Dalby could see the Roo’s drop to third on the premiership ladder and miss out on the second chance come September.
Round 13 Results
Under 12’s
Under 14’s
Under 16’s
Last Modified on 16/07/2012 14:43
