All games were played in extremely windy conditions which were not conducive to skillful football. The hosts had first use of the wind in what would be a good test for our defence. But the boys held up well, with Caulfield only kicking three goals for the quarter and Jackson Heagney-Steart registering a major for the Bloods. Not surprisingly the match was played at one end of the ground, and unfortunately for most spectators the furtherest pocket from the shelter.
We didn’t take advantage of the wind in the second quarter, allowing Caulfield to kick four goals into the draft. While we managed four ourselves, our inaccuracy in the extreme conditions was denying us the ability to exert meaningful scoreboard pressure.
The third quarter was our best with the mid-fielders beginning to get on top. Nashy and Gledders were getting more of the ball, while Johnny Nicolopoulos was providing plenty of run off the half back flank. Collo was also providing plenty of support to fellow defenders. Matt Mitchell and Mick Meehan were becoming more noticeable targets as a bit more desperation crept into the Caulfield game. Our inaccuracy was again proving costly and the game could have been all over. So we went into the last quarter wary of a determined Caulfield, and hoping our dominance would be reflected in the scoreboard.
Well the same themes continued with the Bloods dominating the quarter, but only managing to kick two goals, ten behinds. Caulfield were finding it difficult to get it past our strong centre and half back lines. The throng gradually relaxed as it became clear that we were at least going to win, probably by scoring singles. Pop was now catching everything while Jackson H-S was putting in a determined displayed – nearly as determined as Ferg who popped his shoulder (again), only to return for this last stanza.
It was a really good team effort and showed some real fortitude and a willingness to bounce back. So the boys should be congratulated.Next week we take on Old Brighton who are looking to cement their finals double chance. It would be great to finish on a high, which we have made a habit of doing over the last few years.
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Caulfield Grammarians 3.2-20 7.3-45 8.7-55 8.8-56
Old Haileybury 1.4-10 5.12-42 7.16-58 9.26-80
Old Haileybury
Goal Kickers: J. Heagney-Steart 2, P. Gleadhill 2, J. Nicolopoulos 2, L. Pinot, M. Meehan , M. Mitchell
Best Players: J. Nicolopoulos, L. Nash, J. Heagney-Steart, M. Collins, A. Woltering, T. Witherow
The Reserves were gallant in defeat, going down to a Caulfield side that was simply a bit too good on the day. The boys found it difficult to break down their defense, especially when kicking into the wind. D-Mac was great all day while Colesy was also getting plenty of the ball. The Duck finished with three goals.
The U/19s had the unenviable trip out to Therry Penola – re Fawkner on Saturday. Going into the contest undermanned was not going to help against a side sitting in the top four. And while the boys battled hard all day, the hosts were far too strong.
Last Modified on 19/08/2013 22:03