Pictured-: (Pictures courtesy of Ian and Dianne Penna) (Thankyou, Ian and Di)
Action from the Elliston vs Wirrulla game at Elliston
1. Jason Henderson rising above the Ruck
2. Jarden Stotzer and Tyson Tree contesting the ruck
3. Tyson Tree, another knock, with Jason Henderson and Guy Hutchison ready to go
4. Crunch!, In the back payed as Brodie Kenny earns afree kick
The Streaky Bay Oval was unveiled for the first time in the football and netball. The mighty Hawks ended up celebrating a win, but not on their terms having to return from an eleven point half time deficit. Nine second half goals to one sealed the deal for the fit Hawks outfit. Both coaches will be pleased with the start and with so many changes at Tigerland, a hit out first up against the premiers is a measure of where they are at. Travis Brown lead the way on the ground, Dillon Cabot at his speedy best, Lewis Cotton startin the year well and Dillon Montgomerie as always, three goals a good return in a relatively low scoring match. For the Tigers, young gun Lachlan Mc Innis continues his upward movement as a future champ, Brodie Falciani and Chris Williams both adapted well to the new club. The Tigers still need to find scoring avenues regularly, defensively they are masters.
In the longest Eyre Peninsula road trip, the Bombers started 2015 with an explosion of speed and scoring power, against a talented Rooster side who never threw the towel at any stage. Coach Mick Kessel has plenty to work with this year, the only souring notes to the day was the early exits of captain Jarden Stoetzer with a hamstring and gun recruit Rowan Chester with "hopefully" knee strain. The match was fast and entertaining for a good crowd out to witness the game. Adam Braendler sharp up forward, Andrew Bitmead and Ryan Watson dominating half back, Simon Webb, Jason Henderson and Vinnie Blumson all named in the better players that really could include most of the side. The Elliston boys battled bravely all day and would win plenty of matches with their score. Matt Williams, strong, elusive and quick, Jarrad Trowbridge, playing as a guest this week but would be very welcome all year, plenty of marking power and football smarts. Tyson Tree rucked all day and leaped to great effect agaist tall oponents. Wayden Sumner and Guy Hutchison enjoyed good matches also.
In the "Derby"at Kyancutta, the Bulldogs went about their business, with a workman like perforamance against the plucky Magpies. Something here for both coaches, Centrals maybe lamenting lack of accuracy (again!) and Wudinna United needing more avenues to goals. Concern over Luke Harradine needing to be sent to Whyalla for medical. Best wishes go out to him that he is back soon.
Lachlan Heath outstanding, his ability to work high and low is superb, Jesse Stringer welcome back, plenty of possession and always to advantage. Brett Mc Comb is ruck and Jake Sampson dangerous all day. Jake Bruce through the match safely, most were watching those hamstrings after such a difficult 2014. For the Magpies, Derek Williams won the hard ball all day to be their best, Darryl Marshall in the last line of defence, starting here last year probably fopr the first time in his career but really being a revelation after being a key goal kicker. Young stars Hugh Walker and Jack Wilkins both playing well. The 'Dogs will be keenly looking forward to a Hawks rematch, the 2014 grand final replay, it will be at Streaky Bay, the venue of the 2015 Grand Final, nothing ever brings back a prospective lost flag (?), but where do they stand with a fit and healthy side?
All in all a great first round, Hawks and Bulldogs early signals that they are not backing off, Bombers have arrived. look out for them!, Tigers have improved and will continue to do so, Magpies also are on the up, a younger side with potential, and the Roosters have covered lost players with some excellent recruits.
The Round Summary is here or check out the fixtures/results section menu.
Last Modified on 13/04/2015 18:12