Gunnedah travelled to Armidale on Saturday to compete in the Tablelands Cup for the first time. Two teams from the North Coast League and four from the Tamworth League made up the numbers.
Gunnedah played rivals Inverell in its first match. The Bulldogs dominated the match, winning 7 . 4 (46) to Inverell's 1 . 1 (7). From the onset it was obvious that the pre-season training and fitness work was to pay dividends as the Gunnedah midfield of Josh Hack, Paul Brown and Pat Lebreux continually gave the strong forwards plenty of ball. Paul Christie was a standout at Full Forward, leading and marking strongly. Coach, Dave Chapman, and Half Forwards, Matt Nazzari and Scott Hardy also provided avenues. Sam Naismith, in his first game as number one ruckman, improved as the game progressed. Naismith provided a great contest at the centre bounce as well as gaining numerous possessions around the ground. An unfortunate ankle injury late in the game saw him take no further part in the day.
In its second match, Gunnedah came up against the Nambucca Heads Lions. Having little to go on, Chapman shuffled his team around, allowing players an opportunity to play in positions they may not have had much experience in. Duncan Hill shone in the unaccustomed position of Full Forward. Hill lead well and was unlucky not to have finished the game with at least four goals.
Josh Edwards and John Woolaston were moved into the Ruck at different times during the game and provided plenty of ball to the running midfielders, Aaron Donnelly, Andrew George, Peter Chapman, Lebreux and Hack.
The second half was completely dominated by the enthusiastic Dogs outfit. Better fitness and a superior skill level were factors in the Dogs' huge win with the final score being Gunnedah 10 . 8 (68) to Nambucca Heads 1 . 1 (7).
After winning its pool, Gunnedah was matched up to play the strong Sawtell team, who were the winners of Pool A, in the Grand Final. Sawtell had come to the day as reigning North Coast Premiers.
The first half of the Grand Final was an even affair with Gunnedah kicking two goals to Sawtell's four. At half time it was evident that the speed and skills of the Sawtell team were going to be important in the eventual outcome. Niggling injuries to a number of players and the lack of any real pressure up forward meant the Sawtell backs easily repelled any Gunnedah attacks. In the end, Sawtell ran out easy winners by 45 points.
Josh Hack was named the Carnival's Best Player at presentations held later that evening at the Wicklow Hotel.
Overall, it was felt that the day had been a resounding success. With a number of players missing due to cricket and other commitments, the season augurs well for the club.
Last Modified on 31/03/2009 20:58