Bunninyong Football Ground played host to what was our fourth match and first home game of the season. After a TAC Cup bye which was filled by a Vic Country trial match in the U/17's and U/18's, we were set the task of deflating a Western Jets outfit that had just come off their first win of the season.
The week started with a Tuesday night training session for all Ballarat based players at Ballarat High, due to our regular training spot at St. Pat's, being occupied by Second XVIII (Years 11-12) and Intermediate football (Years 9-10) matches. The change of venue did not deter player spirit with the theme of training being, close contested possession and decision making.
The following day meant the start of the local BAS competition, which saw Ballarat Grammar and Clarendon College battle it out for the first points on offer in season 2009. A four goal first half from Clarendons Lucas Cook led to the tall AIS talent being rested after halftime, whilst his team-mates battled on to prevail 70 odd point victors.
Thursday night's training session saw us back on St. Pat's Hill oval as the second of the BAS round one match was being played between Ballarat High School and St. Patrick's College on the main oval. A spirited BHS was no match for the undermanned SPC, with St. Pat's running away 65 point victors. With the Warrnambool and Wimmera boys travelling up to make the 4.30 start, training commenced in near perfect conditions; the cold Ballarat weather the only thing souring the night. The conclusion of training welcomed the first pre-game dinner of 2009, which was made by the Kitchen staff at St. Pats. Following our meal, the team was read out for the game, with Nathan Horbury and Jake Dunne named as the two debutants for the match.
Match day came and coach, Glen Wilkins, challenged us to "Share & Care" by aiming for 28 sheppards over four quarters. As the first half concluded we were along way off achieving our goal as we only had 6 sheppards in two quarters, one short of our quarterly bench mark. Much to our pleasure, we had created a handy 24 point lead and the message at the half, was to run the game out and not let the opposition back in as has been the case in the past 2 rounds. These words sparked a dominant second half as we outscored them 9 goals to 3, to come away 64 point winners. Dave Astbury provided a target up forward booting 3 goals, as Hooper, Cowan, Bourke and Curran ran a muck through half back and the middle of the ground. Ben Mabon battled tirelessly in the ruck and provided the midfielders with first use of the ball.
The after-match included a wrap-up for Wilko, who explained that the win was credited to our work-rate and togetherness or mateship. Next weeks match includes a drive down the highway to Warrnambool where we play Sandringham as look to better our 3-1 record.
Last Modified on 04/05/2009 15:41