It was slightly cloudy but fine, good conditions for footy on Saturday. And it was a big day for the North Shore club, with all four of our teams in action.
Div 4 had an early start against Manly at Weldon. The Bombers had gone into the game on a two-game winning streak, but it would go no further. Although fighting out the contest all the way, they were unable to overcome the Wolves and went down by 42 points.
The Under 18s were at home at Gore Hill with a 12 noon start, taking on St George. The Bombers took a little while to hit their rhythm, and the Dragons kicked the first goal. But as the quarter wore on, the Bombers lifted and began to assert themselves, snatching back the momentum to lead by 13 points at quarter time. St George fought back in the second term, and the Bombers were forced to defend. But they defended resolutely and the Dragons were unable to regain the lead, the Bombers four points ahead at the long break.
St George peppered the goals early in the third term, but fortunately they weren't kicking straight. Against the run of play, the Bombers scored two quick goals to ensure they maintained their lead; but it was a close call against St George, who kept creating chances; the Bombers leading by six points at three-quarter time. It was three goals apiece in the last quarter, a thrilling finish as St George came home strongly but the Bombers hung on to take victory by five points. The Dragons had more scoring shots during the game and would rue their inaccuracy; but the Bombers were able to make better use of their opportunities.
Premier Division was evenly contested early, two sides that have aspirations of being there at the business end of the season going head to head. Later in the quarter, the Bombers got the upper hand, with a sensational snap over the shoulder by Sam Naismith and some strong marking by Daniel Roberts on the forward line giving the Bombers a 13-point lead at quarter time. After a couple of big grabs by Nick Todd early in the second term, the Bombers found themselves 21 points ahead at one stage. But St George fought back, four goals to two to the visitors for the quarter seeing the North Shore lead reduced to five points at half time.
The Bombers got the upper hand in the third term, finding plenty of run around the ground and putting the Dragons under sustained pressure. Four goals to one for the quarter opened up a 25-point lead at the last change. It was a willing contest, with a vocal crowd in the clubhouse and on the hill revelling in the action. But the Bombers had the edge and went on with the job in a low-scoring last term to win by 44 points.
It was a tough afternoon for the reserves at Gwawley Park. Up against the Southern Power seniors, who were in last year's grand final, our Div 1 side was tested; and although they continued to work hard all day were never in the hunt and were well beaten.
Last Modified on 08/01/2013 13:55