The Gunnedah AFL Club hosted Central West AFL Club Orange in a trial match last Saturday at Wolseley Oval.
Gunnedah continued on its good form of the Tablelands Cup by defeating the understrength Orange Tigers team 20 - 15 - 135 to 8 - 12 - 60.
In a dominating first quarter, Gunnedah kicked six goals to set up a sizeable lead. Farran Lamb, returning to the Club after a year in Sydney, showed his value with numerous strong runs through the centre. Scott Hardy, Richard Avendano and Peter Chapman took control of the centre square. Adam Rees, unable to train for the past week with a foot injury, was provided with plenty of ball, but nagging defence from the Tigers saw Rees only manage to score one major for the term.
A number of positional changes after the break gave opportunities for others to shine. Duncan Hill moved to Centre Half Back and was unpassable, as was Andrew George. George's speed and agility helped keep the Orange backs under immense pressure during the second quarter. The Bulldogs kept Orange to two goals for the quarter whilst adding a further seven to their own tally.
At the half time break, players were encouraged to take more risks, to play on at all costs and to present themselves to be more available to receive possessions. The level of teamwork intensified during the third quarter, with the number of handballs increasing significantly. Gunnedah's running game was excellent. On the Wings, Pat Lebreux and Matt Baker continued to shine. All players supported the ball carrier and provided options all across the ground. At Full Forward, Rees was starting to hold his marks and was rewarded with two more goals. Paul Christie, Chris Hayden and Stuart McVittie all got their hands on the ball and helped to set up a 112 to 31 point lead going into the last change.
In the end, Gunnedah's fitness showed out. Goals to eleven players was very encouraging. With a number of senior players missing due to holidays, it was great to see the Club still able to field a competitive team.
Gunnedah opens its season against Muswellbrook at Muswellbrook on May 2. There will be a bus going to Muswellbrook. Any interested spectators are welcome to come along to support the Dogs. The Club is also seeking the services of at least two people to assist during our seven Home games. We require someone to fill the Goal Umpire vacancy and a second person to Boundary Umpire. Training is available. If you are interested, please ring the Club on 67424278 or come down to training one Monday or Thursday night.
The Club has recently been informed that the name of the league has changed slightly. It is to be known as the Country Energy Tamworth Australian Football League (CETAFL). This is due to Country Energy now forming an alliance with the League, providing valuable sponsorship. As part of the sponsorship, there will be a longest kick competition held at each Gunnedah Home game this season. Weekly prizes and a monetary prize for the overall winner will be provided by Country Energy.
Last Modified on 22/04/2009 20:19