Sunday, 9 Mar saw the Penrith Swans u16 boys take on the much talked about, talent-filled team from the Baulkham Hills Falcons at Greygums Oval.
The Swans were down some 7-8 players due to clashes with other sports, but despite this, the Swans were still able to hold themselves well. The match commenced at a fanatic pace and it was the Swans who got on the board early. Super defence from Josh Nesbitt had the Falcon's forward attack snuffed while the centre-line of Jack Ponton, Daniel Schroot and Liam Murphy proved to be a winning combination.
The second quarter saw a change of face as Baulko powered to the lead. A notable stint of ruckwork by ex St Clair Crow, Grady Tapping was one of the few positives for this quarter, along with a fantastic tackle by Nathan Walker and the never-say-die attitude of Jack McFarlane. Tate Dimech continued to gain many possessions through sheer pace while Aidan (Ace) Ventura probably felt like a 'shag on a rock' in an uncustomised position at full-forward.
The 3rd quarter had the Swans play a little more sensibly but marking and general ball handling skills were Penrith's own worst enemy. Jake Pianta came to the fore while newcomers in Seth Harmer, Hayden Godbold & Ben Priest had the coaching staff wondering whether these guys had really played AFL before. The rucks were again winning, this time through Brad Swinfield, but similar to the 2nd term, it was the Falcons who were picking up the crumbs, rather than the Swans.
The Final quarter had the Swans playing for some pride with some magnificent team work and drives into the forward line. Brad Leech came alive with great defence while Luke Hall and Matt (Newby) Krise got busy with some tough tackles on the half forward line to allow flow on from the centres. Ben Mayer (u14) proved a handful down forward while Tate was again prominent with goals to his name.
Despite being outscored on the day, Coach Phil Lane was extremely pleased with the efforts and dedication for a first-up hit out.
Many thanks go the Baulkham Hill Falcons for their participation and sportsmanship, the game was definately played in good spirit.
Thanks also to the umpiring staff for a job well done, as well as thsoe parents that helped on the day in setting up and packing away. A special mention to Michael Tapping who ran extremely well as Boundary, especially given the warmish day and Laurence Mayer who looked after the goal umpiring duties.
Well done Penrith Swans.
Next week sees another scratch match, this time up against Cronulla. Details of the game will be announced at this week's training.
Last Modified on 09/03/2008 21:51