UNDER 14'S - The Under 14's were troubled by school holidays, the flu and injuries, but still managed a pretty good score line thanks to a number of Numurkah boys donning the mighty Red & White.
Good run of play from fullback to the forward line found the "Young Bloods" unlucky to score a major, even though we managed to keep the ball in our forward line for a fair amount of play. Our backline was once again busy and we had some good leads from our kick outs. Strong marking and tackling in the centre and the wings played a big part in getting the ball up forward. But Numurkah played well in the backline with good running play to get the ball out quickly.
Play was fairly even around the ground with some good match ups all over, well contested marks and solid running play. Toc played well and kept their opponents to about 2 goals per quarter with good pressure. Thanks goes to the Numurkah boys for helping share the load.
This week we go to Congupna, hopefully with a full contingent. If we put in 100% you never know what will happen. Go "Young Bloods".
UNDER 17'S - The boys ran out in very cold conditions (once again) at Katunga but all seemed keen to back up from last week's win.
In the first half the boys got some good team work happening, with quite a few in the thick of things. Jack Shannon was doing a great job down back. In the second quarter they all played well and it showed on the scoreboard with Toc kicking 2 goals to Numurkah's 3 points.
In the second half of the game things just didn't go our way. Although to the boys credit they didn't give up trying to get the ball. Better luck next week, the signs are positive and another win is not far away.
RESERVES - "The Secret Weapons" in Jordan Haynes, Keiran Andrew, Jack Shannon and Dean Keleher were brought up from our thirds. Well done fellas for everything.
Our blokes had their fair share of the leather in the first half - thanks to the fine efforts of "The Captain" - Matt McWhinney, Jacob Hore and Peter Cochrane. Not to forget the "flash" in Pat Evans controlling his wing, Jordan Haynes down back and "The Quiet Achiever" Matt Harper on ball.
At half time the fellas were asked by Lukey for a concerted effort in the last half. I'm not sure they understood the meaning!
Our opponents found easy targets and ran out convincing winners. Very good players over four quarters for Toc were Matt McWhinney B.O.G, Peter Cochrane, Pat Evans, Matt Harper, Jordan Haynes and Jacob Hore.
While the "Ressies and Thirds" haven't been gaining the four points each week - it is pleasing to see these teams have players promoted to our seniors when needed. This must be a positive for our club.
QUERY: Is it true "Strawnie" played a "cameo" role in the Ressies?
SENIORS - With six regular seniors to date out injured - this game was surely for the taking by our opponents Numurkah. Great to see new inclusions Michael Tinkler and Travis Haynes show their "wares". Well done!
When matches are set up as this one was - it was a pleasure to see genuine leadership out on the park by club captain Lucas White. He led from the front and inspired his troops to persevere - especially when Toc were "under the pump" in the first half. Very solid contributors for Toc up to half time would be Dennis Pedemont, David Farrell, Sean Logie, Travis Haynes and of course the "Skippa".
The half time score would show Numurkah a reasonable eight point lead.
Going into the second half our whole team showed a solid resolve to work for each other. The dividends paid off with an eleven goal to six goal reward. The hard work of our "Snowboarda" - Glenn Dundovic up forward was just reward for the efforts further down field.
Considering Toc's situation - this would have to be our best victory this season - so far.
Best players over four quarters for Toc were: Lucas White B.O.G., David Farrell, Jarrod Kelly, Sean Logie, Travis Haynes and Luke Chapman. Special mention to Dennis Pedemont - his shut down job was a beauty!
A big thank you to the Haynes and McDonald families for washing the Under 17 and Under 14's jumpers every week, this is much appreciated. Also a big thanks to our volunteers who help week in and week out, your help doesn't go unnoticed.
This week we travel to Congupna for another big week in football. Let's get behind all football and netball teams and help them get over the line.