This weekend saw us clash with Terrigal-Avoca who are the equal competition leaders in both First Division and Black Diamond Cup competitions so we knew it was not going to be a walk in the park but we were confident nonetheless.
Unfortunately in the First Division clash, we must have left our enthusiasm in the shed as we never really got out of the blocks. In contrast, our opposition came out firing and ran us ragged in the hot conditions. They were too fit and skillful for our young side. Our backline toiled hard but were under the pump all day, our centre struggled to dominate and we were left chasing the competition leaders in what was a fairly lop-sided display. Wilko, Freeman, Hooch, Spud and Horsey tried hard all day for the losers and never gave up but it was Reader who got the mug this week for his best on ground display.
We prepared well for the Black Diamond Cup clash and were confident we had the game plan to upset the competition leaders. The game started at a frenetic pace with the Panthers winning the quarter on the scoreboard but by no means dominating. Our guys were really standing up to our more experienced opponents in what was reminiscent of the Kostya Tszyu v Ricky Hatton title fight, a physical encounter, the only difference being we wouldn't be throwing in the towel. We would stand toe to toe and go blow for blow with them for the entire four rounds.
Nick Greentree, Matthison, Berry, Ede and Penny were showing their class in their respective positions. Our pressure and physicality seemingly unsettling the Panthers and their game suffered. Our unrelenting pressure was forcing them to play scrappy footy. Our intensity and confidence was growing with each quarter. Jim Pinner was doing his job on Goolagong to keep him out of the game.
After three bone jarring rounds, the Panthers were slightly ahead on points, setting up a thrilling final round. Having a sniff of victory and absorbing everything the Panthers could throw at us we came out harder than ever, ducking and weaving, our punches landing on the chin. We won the final round and had them on the ropes but we just weren't able to land the knockout punch.
It was arguably our best performance of the season and one that should have earnt us respect from the Panthers and show the rest of the competition that we are no easybeats and still have some fight left in us. Jade Matthison played his best game of the season and his confidence on the ground was matched by that in the air. Hillman also stepped up a gear and was brilliant for us in the centre. Penny's physical game was outstanding and he owned the wing. Scott Tasker was tireless for us on the ball. Ryan Berry again led from the front and by example. The mug however went the Mitch Ede who since returning from injury has been one of our most consistent. He is playing with renewed confidence and enthusiasm and is strong in all facets of the game.
With a new found confidence, we are looking forward to our clash with the Tigers this weekend.
Sean Horswell
Last Modified on 30/10/2005 13:31