by Stephanie Kirkman
Eastern Ranges have had a fairly consistent run so far in 2009, with eight wins and six losses for the season.
The Ranges fired off to a strong start in round one, defeating Gold Coast by 38-points at Carrara Oval, Gold Coast.
Shortly after the Ranges trip up the Gold Coast, Jordan Gysberts and Kieran Harper selected to represent Australia in the AIS-AFL under 17’s football squad.
The squad travelled to South Africa, where various football clinics were held, as well as a friendly match against the South African football team.
Big wins in rounds two and three saw the Ranges sitting in second place, with a bye in round four, giving the Ranges a week off to rejuvenate and prepare for their round five showdown against the Tassie Mariners.
Dave Mirra stood out in the Mariners game, collecting 27 possessions; averaging 23 possessions per game since round one.
With the end of May approaching, it was time for the NAB Championship trials, where 11 out of a possible 30 Ranges players were selected to represent the Vic Metro side.
With nothing to hide, it was evident from early in the season that the Ranges were going to be a dangerous, competitive side this season with their eyes set on winning the TAC premier trophy in September.
Round six was the Ranges first loss for the season, after a dismal 40-point loss to the Dandenong Stingrays at Shepley Oval.
Round seven saw Ranges sharp-shooter Luke McDonald’s goal tally hit 21 for the season, sitting in second place for most goals kicked this year.
With many key players missing due to the NAB Championships, it was up to the younger, less experienced players to step up and make a key impact in the squad.
The Ranges continued to struggle up until rounds 11 and 12, where the boys managed to gain some momentum and confidence, and kept up a strong performance against North Ballarat, despite losing in Round 12.
Round 13 proved to be one of the matches of the season for the Ranges, with a nail-biting one-point upset win against top spot, Geelong Falcons.
Round 14 onwards saw the Ranges regain that sterling form that they displayed earlier in the season, with a 105-point thumping against the Murray Bushrangers and cruisy 56-point victory against the Sandringham Dragons in round 15.
With three more games left until finals time, all teams are fighting hard to ensure that they make the top eight placing to secure a spot in September.
The Ranges are guaranteed a spot in the eight provided they win at least one of the three matches that await them as the season comes to an end.
Next week (Round 17) the Ranges face the Calder Cannons at Box Hill City Oval, which will draw out to be a competitive match - both teams’ young, dynamic sides that play quality football throughout the field.
The match will be held on Saturday 1st August, at 1:00pm.
Last Modified on 25/08/2009 14:48