Report by Mitch Brown
On Sunday February 15, the U-18 Dandenong Stingrays squad played a pre-season practice match against the Sandringham Dragons.
The scene was set by a quick chain of short kicks across half-forward, culminating in the first goal of the match going to us, but Sandringham were quick to respond, slowing the game right down and holding off the Stingrays attack.
But our boys would not give in, and led by goals from Cooper Sheppard and Daniel Kitto, the first quarter swayed our way by the end.
The second quarter kicked off with a huge slog of scrappy tackling and contested possessions, but helped by the ruckwork from Jayden Bubb and Gach Nyuon, we were able to break the stalemate with three quick goals to gain the momentum.
This was, however, marred by a possible injury to Thomas Jok after a brilliant holding-the-ball tackle. After landing heavily on the turf, he was escorted from the field and did not return for the rest of the game. The news ended up being all good, a tooth through the cheek and a couple of butterfly stiches with a nasty headache.
In the third term, the Stingrays were able to get loose and find some space, but terrific defensive work from both teams forced turnovers and a lack of scoring.
The Dragons got the breakthrough, however, and found ways through our defence towards the end of the quarter.
We saw much of the same in the fourth quarter, with plenty of defensive pressure hampering attacking scoring attempts from both Dandenong and Sandringham.
Our forward line remained determined and managed to sneak a couple of goals past the Dragons backline before the match ended and our exhausted boys walked off the field with their heads held high.
There was some terrific around-the-ground work throughout the match, and this squad has certainly made the TAC Cup selection job a hard one.
The Dandenong Stingrays would like to thank all of the families and friends for showing their support for all of the players, the staff for their tireless work all day, and finally the Sandringham Dragons for a great day of hard-fought football.
Next week the players face the Murray Bushrangers at Rams Arena, Craigeburn. There are three games scheduled with the Under 16’s facing off at 10.00am, followed by the Under 17’s at midday with the main game starting at 2.00pm.
At the conclusion of these games the 2015 Stingrays Under 18 TAC Cup list will be announced on Monday night to players and families before the entire squad and staff head away for a 3 day camp at Mt Eliza.
Last Modified on 07/04/2015 23:36