With the 18's having the bye it was left to First Division and First Grade to fly the flag for the Magpies. First Division played competition leaders Terrigal-Avoca at Hylton Moore whilst First Grade made the long road trip to play Nelson Bay on their home turf.
Our preparation wasn't great with guys turning up late for our First Division match but we were confident going up against the competition leaders. Unfortunately that confidence waned considerably when the Panthers put on a six goal to nil first quarter. It was more of the same in the other terms, we were never in the hunt. Our middle couldn't match it with our opponents and our forwards were heavily marked, our runners not doing enough running. Kris Clouten was doing the work of many and was holding up the backline, if not for him I hate to think what the score would have been and he was the deserved winner of the mug. Guys seemed to be having a go but we need to be more committed and hungry for the ball. With only three games to go, all players have to stand up and finish off the season on a good note.
It was another disappointing result in the First Grade match against Nelson Bay. The build up during the week was good but we couldn't capitalise on our strong start. We have made good progress during the season but we continue to make similar mistakes which we will continue to work on. We have some quality players on our list but we need them to put their hands up at the same time.
There were some entertaining passages of play and good team work. Jade not only capitalised on the team's good work but his own ability to find the ball up forward resulted in a personal tally of nine majors. Koopy continues to impress and moves into the right spaces. Daniel Greenie and Sully both had their best game to date this season. Tyrone getting a bit more game time also impressed.
We should look forward to attacking the last three games of the season, two of which are at home. We'll achieve something, not just go through the motions as many would expect. Let's start this weekend by taking it up to the doggies.
Sean Horswell
Senior Vice President
WLAFC
0417 776655
Last Modified on 30/10/2005 13:33