WHAT A FANTASTIC WEEKEND OF AFL IN MOUNT ISA â WITH TIGERS MICHAEL KING WINNING THE CARGILL MEDAL FOR BEST & FAIREST FOR THE SEASON, OUR GUEST SPEAKER WAS ALEX JESAULENKO, WHO NOT ONLY WAS A GREAT GUY BUT SPOKE WELL AND ENJOYED SOME OF MOUNT ISAâS HOSPITALITY AND A GOLF DAY ON SATURDAY AS WELL AS ENJOYING SOME âGRASS-ROOTSâ FOOTBALL ON SUNDAY (without the grass).
SEMI
In the first round of finals football in the ABB 2008 Premiership season the Minor Premiers Rovers who lost just one game for the season took on the Tigers in the second semi final. Rovers would have been brimming with confidence after flogging the Tigers by well over a hundred points in their last encounter, but finals football can be a different kettle of fish.
The first quarter saw both sides battling hard in an attempt to get an early break, Rovers booting 3 goals to the Tigers 1 goal in the first quarter, Rovers on-baller Jim Faulkner was stamping his authority on the game early while Jimmy Raggart was creating the lose man across the Rovers half forward line. Tigers Adam Vaughan and 2008 newly crowned AFL Mount Isa Cargill medalist Michael King both had early touches and would be the key if the Tigers where going to be any chance of creating an upset victory. Rovers by 9 points at quarter time.
In the second quarter both teams applied pressure on both the man and the ball, Tigers backline stood tall defending many Rovers attacks, Greg Davey and Judd Wesneski repelled the football on many occasion setting up the Tigers centremen, Rovers Clinton Austerberry was finding his feet and becoming difficult to match up on, however the Tigers outscored it
The third quarter, or the premiership quarter as its known, is just that, this is when games are won or lost and generally the team who wants to win most will set up the game for the taking. Tigers big man Warren Beaton marked strongly around the ground, making a contest to ensure the opposition was getting an easy ball. Steve Ross was making solid contributions up forward while Rovers full back Dale Atkinson was punching the ball clear of the several marking contests. It was obvious the crowd could feel the game swing towards the Tigers, their running players started to dominate around the ground and the Tigers forwards capped off their hard work kicking 5 goals to Rovers 3 goals to lead by 13 points at the last change.
The game was up for the grabs, Tigers obviously were in the box seat, however the well-drilled Rovers unit wouldn
In the First Semi Final a depleted Bulldogs were no match for the Buffaloes, a gallant effort by the Bulldogs could not stop the Buffs as they went out and plated some fantastic team orientated football, Buffs Adam Sheehan and Tom Harvey where in everything and forward Russell Stuart booted 7 goals, even the normally full back Nathan Fenner snuck up forward to kick a couple of goals and along with Glen Anderson who booted 4 goals helped the Buffs to an easy 140 point victory. Bulldogs Jeremiah Percy and Mervin Teece battled hard for the Bulldogs who
ROVERS v TIGERS
Tigers 14.9.93 Def Rovers 12.11.83
Tiger Goalkickers:
M.King 4, S.M.Johnson 2, C.Hockley 2,
B.Rogers 2, B.Menz 1, W.Beaton 1, J.Emsley 1, A.Bell 1.
Tigers Best:
A.Vaughan, M.King, W.Beaton, J.Wisneski
Rovers Goalkickers:
S.Ross 3, A.Harrison 2, T.Raggart 2,
â 7TH September 2008
BUFFS v BULLDOGS
Buffs 24-13-157. Def Bulldogs 1-2-8.
Buffs Goals: R.Stuart 7, G.Anderson 4, B.Clark 3, P.White 2, T.Harvey2
N.Fenner 2, B.Power 1, K.Brazell 1, T.Heystraten 1.
Buffs Best: B.Clark, R.Stuart, T.Harvey, A.Sheehan, P.White
Bulldogs Goals: D.Corbett
Bulldogs Best: J.Percy, T.Mahoney, D.Corbett, M.Teece,W.Webb
:
PRELI INARY FINAL
â FINAL FOOTBALL âs more fancied opponents to draw the scores level at the main break, 35 points apiece.ât laydown and give it all always without putting up a fight. The Rovers booted an early goal through some good ruck and centre play, but the Tigers never panicked, Michael King marked strongly right on the boundary line about 35 metres out it was seemed to be an impossible angle, King went back and slotted his 4th goal right between the big sticks to increase the Tigers lead and pump his team mates up. To their credit the Rovers fought back, but every time they kicked a goal, the Tigers had their answer within minutes, in what turned out to be the game of the season, the Tigers held on to win by 10 points and head straight into the 2008 Grand Final, while the losers, Rovers take on Buffs in the Preliminary final next Sunday at Sunset Park.âs season has come to an abrupt end.
EARLY GAME:
1ST SEMI FINAL
BUFFS V BULLDOGS
Q1 8.3.51 0.1.1
Q2 17.8.110 0.1.1
Q3 24.13.157 1.2.8
Q4 GAME CALLED OFF DUE TO BULLDOGS INJURIES AND NOT BEING ABLE TO FIELD ENOUGH PLAYERS IN THE LAST QUARTER.
LATE GAME:
2ND SEMI FINAL
ROVERS V TIGERS
Q1 3.1.19 1.4.10
Q2 5.5.35 5.5.35
Q3 8.7.55 10.8.68
Q4 12.11.83 14.9.93
ROUND 15 - GAME 1 TIGERS V BUFFS
Round 15 of the ABB 2008 Premiership Season the Tigers took on the Buffs for the last home and away round for season 2008. Tigers coming off a huge 40 goal win against the Bulldogs would have to improve to show they are real contenders for the 2008 premiership cup.
In windy conditions both teams struggled in the first quarter to take control of the game, Tigers had more of the ball but couldnât capitalise up forward booting 1 goal 5 behinds to the Buffs 1 goal 1 behind.
The Tigers stepped up the tempo in the second quarter, on baller Michael King was creating play all over the ground, while Tigers backman Anthony Emsley was repelling the football out of the Tigers defensive half. Buffs Defender Andrew Beckwith was battling hard for his team and stopped many forward drives by the Tigers. Tigers led by 41 points at the main break.
Tigers veteran Tubsy Rawlings was playing well below his age group, providing a focal point up forward along with big Shaun Johnson. Tom Harvey created play for the Buffs but unfortunately the Tigers backmen, led by Greg Davey gave the Buffs forwards little chance, Tigers stretched their lead to 63 points at three quarter time.
Tigers utility Adam Vaughan was all over the ground pumping long kicks into the Tigers forward line time and time again. Shaun Johnson finished with 4 goals and was well supported by speedster Calvin Hockley who booted 3 majors for the afternoon. Buffs only shining light up forward was Russell Stuart who booted the only 2 goals the Buffs kicked. Tigers finished strongly in the last quarter to win by a comfortable margin of 110 points.
Next Friday Night at Buchanan Parks Xstrata Entertainment Centre the 2008 Cargill Medal for the Best and Fairest player in the league will be handed out, along with the Leo White Memorial Leading Goalkicking Trophy for the 2008 AFL Mount Isa season, guest speaker on the night will be former Carlton great Alex Jesaulenko who is a member of the AFL Hall of Fame.
Finals football begin next week with the knockout 1st Semi Final between Buffs and Bulldogs followed by the 2nd Semi Final between Rovers and Tigers, the winner heading straight into the Grand Final. Congratulations to Bill Cook and the Rovers Football Club for winning the Minor Premiership in 2008.
ROUND 15 - GAME 2 ROVERS v BULLDOGS-FORFIET
:
Finals â31.8.08
12.30pm - 1st Semi Final â Buffs V Bulldogs
2.30pm â 2nd Semi Final â Rovers V Tigers
TIGERS v BUFFS
TIGERS 17.23.125 Def BUFFS 2.3.15
Tigers Goalkickers:
Only one game this week with the Bulldogs not coming in for the late game against Rovers.
S.Johnson 4, C.Hockley 3, J.Hockley 2,
Tubsy Rawlings 2, A.Emsley 1, J.Emsley 1, T.Daniels 1, M.King 1
SPD.Atkinson 1.
Tigers Best:
M.King, A.Vaughan, A.Emsley
Buffs Goalkickers:
GAME 1
TIGERS V BUFFS
Q1 1.5.11 1.1.7
Q2 6.13.49 1.2.8
Q3 10.17.77 2.2.14
Q3 17.23.125 2.3.15
FINALS FOOTBALL NEXT WEEK.
ROUND 14 - GAME 1 TIGERS V BULLDOGS
TIGERS IN A GOALFEST
Round 14 of the ABB 2008 Premiership Season proved to be a big percentage booster for the Tigers Football Club with the only game played on the weekend. Both Tigers & the Lake Nash Bulldogs came into the match severely undermanned through work & transportation issues with both sides only fielding only sixteen players each.
Tigers were keen to make amends for their previous drubbing from Rovers & meant business right from the first bounce kicking three quick goals in two minutes. With Tigers onballers Calvin Hockley & Daniel Kerr racking up plenty of possession it gave Tigers forward of Jimbo Emsley & Jonny Neal plenty of goal scoring opportunities. Tigers blitzing the first half with twenty goals kicked, while Bulldogs players Bradly Barber & Shaun Rankin could only manage one goal each till half time.
With the second half underway it was going to be long day at the office for the Bulldogs with Tigers continuing the onslaught as per the first half with a 23 goal blitz in the second half & keeping the Bulldogs down to one straight goal for the half from Amos Teague. It was a very polished performance from Tigers Jonny Neal finishing with twelve goals & fullforward Jimbo Emsley finishing with ten. For Bulldogs Amos Teague, Trevor King Jeremiah Percey battled hard all day but they needed more mates to stop the Tigers onslaught.
ROUND 14 - GAME 2 ROVERS v BATS-FORFIET
:
Round 15 â24.8.08
12.30pm - Tigers V Buffs
2.30pm â Rovers V Bulldogs
Host Club -Tigers
.
BULLDOGS V TIGERS
Tigers 43-17-275. Def Bulldogs 3-1-19.
Tigers Goals:
Tigers Best:
J.Neal, M.King,C.Hockley & J.Emsley
Bulldogs Goals:
Singles To-B.Barber,S.Rankine & A.Teague
Quarter By Quarter Scores.
TIGERS V BULLDOGS ROVERS V BATS
Q1 10.03.63 1. 0. 03 FORFIET BY BATS
Q2 20.09.129 2. 01. 13
Q3 29.13.187 2. 01. 13
Q4 43.17.275 3. 01. 19
ROUND 13 - GAME 1 ROVERS v TIGERS.J.Neal 12,J.Emsley 10,G.Warren 3,J.Wisneski,D.Kerr 3,G.Davey 2,K.Martin 2,J.Campbell 2,Singles To M.King,A.Emsley,W.Atikinson,K.Hockley&G.Davies.
Rovers have all but secured their tenth consecutive minor premiership in Rd 13 of the ABB 2008 Premiership season with a thumping win over arch rivals Tigers. Honours were even with one win each against each other & this promised to be a pressure cooker match. From the first bounce the match was played at a furious pace with Rovers slotting two quick goals through Jim Faulkner & Aaron Harrison. Tigers then got into their forward line with Michael King putting through their first goal. Rovers continued attacking into their forward 50 but Tigers defence stood strong through Anthony Emsley & Frank Wisneski clearing the ball out of the danger zone on many occasions. Rovers finished slightly stronger for the quarter with a 19 point margin.
The second quarter started as a scrappy affair & not long into the quarter tempers flared which resulted in four players being sent of to cool down-2 each from Rovers & Tigers. This had a major effect on the match ups as goals were hard to score Rovers finished the quarter better , but kicking 2 goals 7 behinds for the quarter had not wrapped the game up while Tigers remained goal less.
With the minor premiership at stake both teams had plenty to play for, Rovers midfield led by Clinton Austerbury,Jim Faulkner & Simon Pope hit top gear, giving their forwards plenty of opportunities to score goals. To Tigers credit Jack Doyle & Michael King battled hard but turnovers had cost the side dearly. Tigers S.Johnson scoring Tigers only goal for the quarter & Rovers kicking 5 goals 5 behinds with a 61 point lead at three quarter time.
With Clinton Austerbury continuing to rack up plenty of possession the goals were shared around the Rovers forward line Hayden Bachmann, Kim Bracken,Jim Faulkner & with Aaron Harrison who finished with four goals. The Rovers defence led by Dale Atkinson had kept Tigers down to three majors all day. Rovers finishing big winners by 113 points.
ROUND 13 - GAME 2 BUFFS v BATS
In the second game of the ABB 2008 Premiership season, both Bats & Buffaloes were keen to secure a Finals berth. Bats had not played for nearly a month & were sitting in fourth position on the ladder, one game behind Buffs who are sitting in third position. Both sides had plenty to play for a September Finals Berth.
Buffs started ablaze with Ben Bravos in the ruck his midfield were getting clear of the centre straight down to full forward Russell Stuart who kicked two goals for the quarter & well supported by the veteran Eric Gillett who also kicked two. Towards the end of the quarter Shaun Nelson goaled twice thanks to some great work from bats midfielder Selwyn Teague. Buffs finishing the quarter up by 17 points.
Buffs continued the team game in the second quarter kicking 5 goals 2 points for the quarter, with Buffs backline of Dan Dreier & Andrew Beckwirth repelling forward attacks from the bats midfield & quickly moving it to their forward line with goals being shared with Russell Stuart & Paul White. With Bats finishing the quarter with 2 goals from Selwyn Teague & Shaun Nelson.
It was time for the Bats to get into gear for the second half if they wanted to secure 3rd or 4th spot, but Buffs had other ideas & continued to play the team game with plenty of sheparding & tackling from the backline that would not let Bats have a look in. With the two veterans of Homer & Whitey the old hands kicked & set up plenty of goals for full forward Russell Stuart who finished with six goals for the day. To Bats credit they kicked a further six goals for the second half shared by Stuart Raye, Glendon Connolly, & Brenton King. Buffs ending up running away by 44 points, keeping third place on the ladder.
: Round 13 â 17.8.08
12.30pm - Tigers V Bulldogs
2.30pm â Rovers V Bats
ROVERS V TIGERS
Rovers-19-24-138. Def Tigers-3-7-25.
Rovers Goals: A.Harrison 4,J.Faulkner 3,C.Austerbury 2, S.Pope 2,K.Bracken 2,D.Mizow1,H.Bachmann
1,R.Epstein 1,J.Doolan 1,L.Austerbury 1,R.Evans 1.Rovers Best:C.Austerbury,J.Faulkner, ,D.Atkinson,L.AusterburyTigers Goals: M.King 1, G.Warren 1, S.Johnson 1.
BUFFS v BATS
BUFFS â 18.7.115 Def Batsâ 10.11.71
Buffs Goalkickers:
R.Stuart 6, E Gillett 5, P.White 2, J.Takurit 1, G.Griffey1,T.Heystraten 1,M.Rhodes1
, M.Tek 1
Buffs Best:
E.Gillett,A.Beckwirth,T.Heystraten,M.Rhodes.
Bats Goals:
S.Teague 3,S.Nelson 2, G.Connolly 2, S.Raye 1,
A.Williams 1, B. King 1.
EARLY GAME: MAIN GAME:
ROVERS V TIGERS BUFFS V BATS
Neither the Bats or Bulldogs could find transport to make it into Mount Isa this week
EARLY GAME â FORFEIT
ROVERS V BUFFS
Q1 6.5.41 0.2.2
Q2 10.9.69 1.5.11
Q3 13.13.91 2.5.17
Q4 18.18126 2.6.18
In the early game, both Bulldogs and the Bats failed to show due to transportation issues.
ROUND 12 - GAME 2 BUFFS v ROVERS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, the late game was between the Rovers and Buffs, Rovers after a weeks rest and the return of the 2007 Cargil Medallist Clinton Austerberry would be keen to win and get back the top on the ladder.
The opening quarter saw the Rovers click into gear at the first bounce, Damien Mizow and Clint Austerberry were quickly into the fray and helped the Rovers to a commanding lead at quarter time, scoring 41 points to Buffs 2 behinds.
The second quarter and the Buffs put in a much harder effort, the Buffs scored early and controlled the ball better in the second quarter, however the Rovers still managed to boot 4 goals to the Buffs 1 goal to extend their lead to 58 points at the main break.
The Buffs maintained pressure on the man during the 3rd quarter, but the green and gold force was way to dominant on all areas of the field, little Simon Pope was picking up many possessions in the middle and seemed to roam free all afternoon utilising his pace and football knowledge to construct many forward set ups. Rovers found it hard to score many goals this quarter but still increased their lead to 74 points.
Darryl Nahow was zipping all over the paddock bouncing the ball on many occasions around his opponents, with several runs into the Buffs forward line in the last quarter, but all to no avail, the Rovers backmen standing tall as they had done all day, repelling the ball out of their backline and up to their forward line where Clinton Austerberry capped off their hard work and finished with 5 majors for the day, he was well supported by Aaron Harrison who bagged 3 goals for his team. Rovers eventual winners by 108 points, their lead could have been a little more when big forward Richard Epstien marked on the line of the behinds and turned around and booted it through for what he thought was a goal, wrong posts Richard, surely a contender for mug of the year. The Rovers victory places them back on top of the ladder on equal points with Tigers but a much healthier percentage, next weeks game between ladder leading Rovers and Tigers should be an epic battle, Rovers will want to redeem themselves after their only lose of the season to Tigers when they last met.
Q1 4.8.32 2.1.13 Q1 5. 2. 32 2. 3. 15
Q2 6.15.51 2.3.15 Q2 10. 4. 64 4. 7. 31
Q3 11.20.86 3.7.25 Q3 14. 6. 90 6. 9. 45
Q4 19.24. 138 3.7.25 Q4 18. 7. 115 10. 11. 71
J.Takurit 1, E.Bravos 1.Buffs Best:
D.Nahow, B.Harvey, G.AndersonRovers Goalkickers:
C.Austerberry 5, A.Harrison 3,
K.Bracken 2, R.Epstein 2, M.Blakey 1, S.Pope 1,
ROUND 11 - GAME 1 BULLDOGS V ROVERS
In the early game, the struggling Buffs were at a crossroad and would need a win if they were any chance of making the finals in 2008, and after last weeks demoralising loss to the Tigers due to a shortage of available players it would be hard to bounce back against the Lake Nash Bulldogs.
The Buffs must have had a recruiting drive since last week, they ran on the field with good numbers and it was obvious they meant business. The Buffs grabbed the early lead with a goal to Russell Stuart within a couple of minutes through some fine attacking football, but it didnât take long and the Bushie Bulldogs replied, at this early stage of the game both teams seemed to be evenly matched, the Buffs where squandering many opportunities in front of goal, they led by 3 points at quarter time.
The second quarter was fast moving, the Buffs played some good team football, veteran and local AFL legend Paul White donned the boots and proved to his younger team mates that sharing the ball around can be as rewarding as trying doing it all yourself, and it seemed to rub off, Buffs booted 7 goals to the Bulldogs 1 goal in the second quarter, mainly thanks to some great football by Pat King and the speedy defender Andrew Beckwirth. Buffs by 37 points at the main break.
Bulldogs Jeremiah Percy and Ian Barber did their best for the Bulldogs and fended off many Buffs attacks in the third quarter, but their forwards could not capitalise on the hard, Buffs full back Nathan Fenner as per usual put in a solid effort down back repelling the ball on many occasions, Buffs increased their lead to solid 57 points.
Having a match winning lead, the Buffs could have taken their foot off the accelerator and cruised through match, however they did the opposite, they piled on 8 goals 6 behinds to the Bulldogs 1 goal 1 behind to run out eventual winners by 104 points.
Buffs forwards Russell Stuart booted 5 goals, while goal sneak Gavin Hill bagged 4, not too bad for a defender. A good solid four quarters of football for the Buffs which would make their hierarchy happy heading towards the business end of the season.
Once again the Bats were unable to find suitable transport to travel the 600 kph round trip into the Isa to play the Tigers. Tigers spokesman Gary James Davies was very disappointed to miss out on playing the Bats for the third time this year, missing out on some crucial goal kicking practice.
BULLDOGS v BUFFS
Bulldogs â 4.8.32 def by Buffs â 20.16.136
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
I.Barber 2, S.Mahoney 2.
Bulldogs Best:
J.Percy, I.Barber, S.Mahoney, A.Mills
Buffs Goalkickers:
NEXT WEEK:
Round 12 â 27.7.08
12.30pm - Bulldogs V Bats
2.30pm â Rovers V Buffs
BULLDOGS BUFFS
Q1 1.3.9 1.6.12
Q2 2.6.18 8.7.55
Q3 3.7.25 12.10.82
Q4 4.8.32 20.16.136
ROUND 10 - GAME 1 BULLDOGS V ROVERSR.Stuart 5, G.Hill 4, P.King 3,
P.White 3, S.Rivers 2, G.Griffey 1.
EARLY GAME
Forfeit in the early game. Lake Nash Bushie Bulldogs were unable to travel to Mount Isa due to vehicle shortages.
ROUND 10 - GAME 2 TIGERS V BUFFS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the Tigers came up against a depleted Buffaloes line up, the struggling Buffs, who have had decent numbers lately, but unfortunately this week they just managed to field a side.
With the Buffs low on numbers and the Tigers on fire after playing good solid football in the past couple of games, it was always going to be a hard task for the Buffs.
The first quarter saw the relentless Tigers dominate all over the ground, young gun Owen Mayers was running amok in the centre and Papas Emsley was picking up heaps of marks and kicks across the half back line, poor kicking was the only downfall for the Tigers, finishing the quarter with 6 goals, 9 behinds to the Buffs 1 goal 1 behind.
With a couple of spare men roaming, the Tigers once again dominated proceedings all over ground, the Buffs backline players were getting a workout as the ball spent the majority of the quarter in the Tigers forward line, Buffs Nathan Fenner was battling hard for his team, the Tigers were missing many easy shots at goal must have been driving coach Shaun Johnson mad, although he also didnât bring his kicking boots to the game, Tigers kicked 5 goals, 9 behinds to have a game winning lead at the main break of 73 points.
The pressure was obviously getting to the Buffs, and with one player sent off for a late hit on Michael King only added to their worries, Adam Vaughan went into the centre and dominated the Ruck duels from his first encounter, feeding the on-ballers time and time again. Tigers Brian Menz was comfortably picking up touches all over the paddock and small man Benjamin Rogers was kicks across the half back throughout the game. Unfortunately up forward the Tigers were missing many shots on goal, players were having shots from all angles instead of centering the ball to players in better positions, and still a 7 goal to 1 in the third quarter only extended the Tigers lead.
The last quarter kicking with the breeze and a 116 point lead the Tigers still continued to play hard at the ball, while the Buffs had run out of puff, Buffs on-baller Dave Billingworth never gave up and was easily the Buffs best along with Nathan Fenner, unfortunately some of the more experienced players from the Buffs went missing when they were needed the most. Tigers cruised through the last quarter kicking another 7 goals and keeping their opponentâs goalless. Tigers best were Anthony Emsley, Adam Vaughan and Brian Menz.
BUFFS v TIGERS
BUFFS â 2-6-18 Def By TIGERS â 25-30-180
Buffs Goalkickers:
NEXT WEEK: General Bye
Round 11 â 20.7.08
12.30pm - Bulldogs V Buffs
2.30pm â Tigers V BatsK.Silver 3.Buffs Best:
D.Billingham, N.FennerTigers Goalkickers:
J.Emsley 5, C.Hockley 4,
S.Johnson 3, B.Menz 3, A.Vaughan 3, G.Warren 2,
.
ROUND 9 - GAME 1 TIGERS v BULLDOGS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, the Tigers who had a sensational win over the Rovers last week would be running high with confidence and would be looking at stamping its authority on the game against the Bushie Bulldogs.
Tigers coach Shaun Johnson had decided to play pint sized backman Greg Davey in the Ruck, a strange move in some eyes, however he has a big leap and also has great ball handling skills at ground level. Tigers maintained most of the possession in the first quarter, but some good defence from the Bulldogs made it hard for the Tigers to score freely, Tigers lead by 14 points.
The second quarter began similar to the first, the Bulldogs where playing some fairly physical football and bought the Tigers back to playing there level of football, if not for inaccurate kicking by the Bulldogs the Tigers may have trailed at half time, however the lead by 17 points at half time.
With the game being much closer than anticipated by most, Tigers needed to lift their intensity and take control of the game and it wasnât long before the lifted thing up a notch and with some solid football by Toby Oliver and veteran Warren Beaton who was thrown into the Ruck, Beaton dominated the Ruck duels and gave the Tigers the first option on the footy. Bulldogs Mitchell Mahoney was playing solid down defence for his side and Donathon Corbett was picking up many possessions around the ground for the Bulldogs, Tigers booted 6 goals to 2 in the third quarter to have a handy 42 point lead heading into the last quarter.
Big Jim Emsley was making life very difficult for his smaller opponents, marking strongly and booting a few goals to add to his season tally, he was well supported by Sooky Warren who had himself kicked a handful of goals. Tigers powered on in the last quarter kicking a healthy 9 goals to 3 goals to run out winners by 82 points.
Tigers birthday boy Jim Emsley booted 7 goals, Sooky Warren 5 & Michael King kicked 4goals,8.
ROUND 9 - GAME 2 BULLDOGS v ROVERS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the Rovers took on the struggling Bats, Rovers who would be looking at redeeming themselves after their shock loss to the Tigers in the last round.
Although without gun on-baller Clint Austerberry, the Rovers started the game like they were on a mission, Jim Faulkner and Damien Mizow were running amok but unfortunately the usually text book kicking style of Damien Mizow failed him dismally, Rovers lead by 26 point at quarter time.
Rovers little men Simon Pope and Rory Evans where amongst it all, Evans foot skills where a treat to watch, Bats Adrian Williams and veteran Craig Philomac gave their all to try to stop the rampant Rovers but could do little as the bigger stronger Rovers piled on another 7 goals and kept their opponents goalless in the second quarter to stretch their lead to a massive 74 points.
The Bats needed to show their coach Kerry Campbell that they can be competitive, although a comeback was out of the question, now they where playing for pride. Rovers who only cared about winning and extending their percentage lead against the rest of the competition.
Rovers big man Steve Ross was taking control of the game, taking several big grabs around the ground and making the most of his opportunities in front of the big sticks, although Bats showed some good passages of play and kicked three goals for the term they where still outplayed and outscored by the Rovers who kicked 8 goals to 3 to lead by 106 points at three quarter time.
With game all but over on the scoreboard, a team who wants to win the premiership will need to play four solid quarters of football and thatâs exactly what the Rovers did, lead by Jim Faulkner and Rory Evans the Rovers booted another 7 goals and kept their opponents goalless in the last quarter to win by 146 points.
NEXT WEEK: General Bye
Round 10 â 12.7.08
12.30pm - Bulldogs V Rovers
2.30pm â Tigers V Buffs
TIGERS v BULLDOGS
TIGERS â 21-16-142 Def BULLDOGS â 8-12-60
Tigers Goalkickers:
J.Emsley 7, G.Warren 5, M.King 4,
B.Rogers 3, S.Johnson 1, W.Beaton 1.
Tigers Best:
T.Oliver, W.Beaton, M.King
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
A.Teague 2,D.Corbett 2,
BATS v ROVERS
BATS â 4-9-33 Def By ROVERS â 27-17-179
Bats Goalkickers:
R.Nixon 2, A.Williams 1, S.Teague 1.
Bats Best:
A.Williams, S.Teague, R.Nixon
Rovers Goalkickers:
S.Ross 5, K.Bracken 3,
R.Evans 3, R.Epstein 3, J.Faulkner 3, D.Mizow 2,
.
ROUND 8 - GAME 1 BUFFS v BATS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, the Lake Nash Bats would be looking at rebounding after a big loss to the Lake Nash Bulldogs last weekend. The Buffs who have only had the one victory in the opening round against the Bulldogs would need to register a victory soon if they were to keep the club alive for the 2008 final series.
With the wind blowing a gale and conditions more suited to sailing, accuracy at goal would be a big part of games on today at Sunset Oval, and the first quarter proved that point to the fullest, Buffaloes making the most of their opportunities by kicking 7 goals 1 behind to the Bats 3 goals 5 behinds, the Buffs with a handy quarter time lead of 20 points.
Russell Stuart, Ben Bravos and Scott Crawford were becoming a handful for the opponents with the forwards booting majors to help the Buffs extend their lead. Young Ryon Teague was battling hard for the Bats and along with Adrian Williams helped keep their team within striking distance at half time, Buff extended their lead to 25 points at the main break.
Buffs veteran Dan Fraser was using all his experience to help keep the Bats at bay, but the Bats seemed to get a roll on and within no time they where closing the gap on the scoreboard, Bats forward Selwyn Teague was providing a focal point up front and booted a couple of goals and gave the Bats the lead at three quarter time by 3 points.
It appeared that history was repeating itself, on a couple of occasions this season the Buffs have started games well, only to dwindle away in the second half to lose to their opponents.
With the ascendancy leaning towards the Bats after a fine comeback in the third quarter, most punters would have put their money on the Bats, but in a sea-sawing affair, in what turned out to be a fantastic final quarter of football, both teams gave their all, going kick for kick, goal for goal. It was only with a couple of minutes to spare the Buffs put themselves in front, then the ball headed down to the Bats forward line when young backman Lochie Bell produced a couple of huge smothers and tackles within a couple of seconds, the ball rebounded back up to the Buffs forward line where they bagged another goal and the eventual winning margin. A great game and a great second victory the Buffs keeping their season alive.
ROUND 8 - GAME 2 TIGERS v ROVERS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the top of the table clash between Rovers and Tigers, in there first clash this season the Rovers had thumped the Tigers by a massive 81 points. Tigers were not only the underdog in this clash, but would have to prove to the Mount Isa AFL followers, that they are real contenders in this year premiership race, not pretenders.
The swirling wind had not subsided, and both teams found it difficult in the conditions, although the skill level was not great, the enthusiasm and pressure applied on both ball and players was intense, these guys where not here to bake cakes. A low scoring quarter with only one goal scored by the Rovers had the scoreboard Rovers 1.4.10 to Tigers 0.3.3.
Jim Faulkner who has made a recent return to the Rovers was proving his worth as one of the best on ballers in the competition, while Tigers Captain courageous Toby Oliver was in everything, picking up possessions and generally being a menace to his opponents. Once again the second quarter saw some hard physical football and some great individual efforts and pressure, in a low scoring quarter both team kicked only one goal each, the Rovers up by 9 points at half time.
Tigers on baller Michael King was playing his usual classy game, gutsy backmen Owen Mayers who is only 17 years old was playing way beyond his years and was well supported by his backline team mates. Tigers played with enthusiasm and determination, not giving their more fancied opponents an easy possession, their pressure was phenomenal, they managed to boot 4 goals and keep their opponents goalless in the third quarter, the Tigers held a 16 point lead at three quarter time, and in the context of the low scoring game, a very handy lead.
Tigers coach Shaun Michael Johnson fired up his boys at three quarter time, although he knew they had the lead it was by no means a winning lead as he urged his troops to continue in the last quarter as they had done in the first three quarters.
The Rovers who had not been in this position all season and who had won all their games by an average of over 70 points would need to show why they are Premiership favorites and embark on a comeback to keep their undefeated status.
The Rovers came out and booted the first goal within a minute of the restart, the large crowd could sense a comeback, however the Tigers who stuck to their game plan where not going to have any of that, with on ballers Toby Oliver and Michael King taking control of the game and the Tigers Big forwards capitalising on their opportunities, Tigers booted another 4 goals to 1 in the last quarter to go on and create the biggest upset of the season to soundly beat the Rovers by 31 points.
.
TIGERS v ROVERS
TIGERS â 9-13-67 Def ROVERS â 3-18-28
BUFFS v BATS
BUFFS â 16-5-101 Def BATS â 12-14-86
Buffs Goalkickers:
R.Stuart 5, B.Bravos 3, D.Nahow 3,
S.Crawford 2, D.Billingham 1, S.Rivers 1, T.Haystraten 1
Buffs Best:
D.Fraser, N.Fenner, D.Nahow
Bats Goalkickers:
S.Teague 4, L.Anderson 3,
Tigers Goalkickers:S.M.Johnson 2, J.Emsley 2,
M.King 2, O.Mayers 1, C.Hockley 1, J. Hockley 1.Tigers Best:
T.Oliver, M.King, O.MayersRovers Goalkickers:
J.Faulkner 1, S.McCarthy 1,
BULLDOGS v BATS
BULLDOGS â 15-14-104 Def BATS â 9-11-65
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
I.Barber 4, W.Billy 4, S.Mahoney 3,
A.Teague 2, M.Rusty 1, C.Campbell 1.
Bulldogs Best:
S.Mahoney, D.McDonald, A.Teague
Bats Goalkickers:
A.Williams 6, G.Jones 2,
ROVERS v BUFFS
ROVERS â 20-13-133 Def BUFFS â 4-4-28
Rovers Goalkickers:
D.Mizow 9, R.Evans 3, R.Epsten 3
J.Doolan 2, S.Pope 1
Rovers Best:
D.Mizow, C.Austerberry, J.Faulkner
Buffs Goalkickers:
D.Fraser 1, N.Fenner 1,
Unfortunately the Bats had their second forfeit for the season against the Tigers. A rock and a hard place for the league. The league cannot allow the season to be interrupted with forfeits during the season.
It affects the flow of the season via, player & coachâs preparation, especially with a bye built into our league. The umpires need the run and the supporters who turn out to watch & promote AFL, Then last but not least the Executives of the league who place so much time & effort into our league.
The other side of the coin has the Bats & Bulldogs travel 500 Kilometers to play AFL in Mount Isa from the Northern Territory, a lot of this on dirt roads. The fuel & vehicle costs come from the players themselves as the two Lake Nash (Allupurrulam Community) do not / can not source sponsors to assist with the travel costs whether they be private vehicles or a bus from the Barkly highway junction. Costs that were overlooked last year were the trophies for the two teams. Do the Bats need guidance? A team manager, a driver? Anything else?
Earlier this year the Mount Isa AFL headed out to Lake Nash to do some ground work on AFL with the teams. The Mount Isa AFL meet with the Queensland parliament in Cloncurry to address the issue of just over the border issue, Not From Queensland & Doesn't play in the Northern Territory. Auskick etc is missed in the Allupurrulam Community. The Northern Territory AFL were to have someone contact the Mount Isa AFL or Anne from the Allupurrulam Community.
Lets hope for the good of AFL in Mount Isa we have some people put their hands up to assist with making sure our competition continues to run with five teams enjoying the great game of AFL.
BULLDOGS v BUFFS
BULLDOGS â 12-19-91 Def BUFFS â 12-6-78
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
S.Nelson 6, C.Campbell 2,
Z.Holmes 1, S.Mahoney 1, J.Percy 1, W.Billy 1.
Bulldogs Best:
S.Nelson, D.Corbett, R.Bob, C.Campbell
Buffs Goalkickers:
J.Willetts 3, R.Stewart 2, L.Adams2
ROUND 5â GAME 1 BULLDOGS v ROVERS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, top placed Rovers came up against last placed Bushie Bulldogs, in what most would think to be an easy victory for the Rovers.
Rovers dominated the centre bounces as they had done so far this year, Ruckman Steve McInerney was winning ball ups and throw-ins around the ground, feeding his smaller on-ballers who in turn thrusted the football into the Rovers forward line time and time again, if not for inaccurate kicking of 4 goals 7 behinds the Rovers could have sown up the game by quarter time.
Micah Blakey was picking up many possessions around the ground and using his fast pace to leave his opponents in his tracks, Mitchell Mahoney and Adrick Mills began a comeback for the Bulldogs in the second quarter, the Bulldogs easily outscored their more fancied rivals by kicking
3 goals 5 behinds to Rovers solitary 1 goal 1 behind to trail by 14 points at the main break.
The Bulldogs players must have been on a high after their second quarter and came out and booted the first goal and incidentally missing a couple of getable ones to get within a kick of the League leaders. But as they have done so many times over the years, the Rovers tuned in and kicked 7 unanswered goals, 3 coming from the boot of Tim Raggart in the space of just few minutes, this helped to put the game seemingly out of reach for the Bulldogs, Rovers by 52 points.
With a 53 point deficit at the last break anyone would have thought the Rovers would steamroll home, but nobody told the Bulldogs that, in what was a fairly close last quarter with both teams having 7 scoring shots, the Bulldogs kicked more accurately with 4 goals 3 behinds to the Rovers 2 goals 5 behinds. Although a gallant effort by the Bulldogs, they went down by 42 points.
Rovers Kim Bracken played some strong football to finish with 4 goals as did Scott Mahoney from the Bulldogs.
ROUND 5 GAME 2 BUFFS v TIGERS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the Buffs played host to the Tigers, the Buffs with 1 win from 3 starts would be looking to increase that today against a not-so-impressive Tigers unit.
Both team where obviously fired up for the occasion as the game started at a cracking pace, both sides obviously wanted to kick the first goal and perhaps the gain the momentum early. Tigers inaccuracy again cost them in front of the big sticks, Tigers still managed 6 goals and the Buffs fought hard and kept in touch booting 4 goals to stay within striking distance, Buffs Adam Sheehan rucked well and fought hard, the Buffs just 14 points behind at quarter time.
The second quarter was a very physical encounter with some big hits by both sides, Tigers gained the upper hand and maintained possession through its midfield with Michael King becoming an early favorite for this years Cargill Medal with some sensational early season form, Buffs Luke Adams was again leading by example in the centre for his team and Ben Bravos booted a couple of first half goals to help keep his team in the running, Tigers by 38 points at the long break.
Tigers began to play team orientated football in the third quarter, lead by young captain and club president Teabag Oliver, new Tigers player Owen Mayers was a significant contributor throughout his first game. Buffs defenders Nathan Fenner and Michael Rhodes had there work cut out for them, counter attacking ,many of the Tigers forward moves, both players battled for 4 quarters for their team. Tigers kicked away in the third quarter kicking 5 goals to 2 to extend its leady to 58.
Players where obviously weary in the last quarter after such a physically demanding game to date, perhaps a little more fitness helped the Tigers run out the last quarter and finish off its opponents kicking 6 goals 6 behinds and held the Buffs scoreless. Calving Hockley finished with 5 goals, Jim Emsley & Clinton Nemo 3 for the Tigers while Ben Bravos and Luke Serevi finished with 2 each.
Tigers coach Shaun Johnson was pleased with the great display of teamwork and attack at the ball, but was disappointed with conversion rate.
Buffs coach Phil Bell said that regardless of the score his team tried hard all day, his players responded when he asked, he admitted he and his team still had plenty of work to do and we will improve.
NEXT MATCHES
ROUND 6: (Sunday 1June 2008)
12.30 PM - BULLDOGS v BUFFS
2.30 PM - BATS v TIGERS
BYE ROVERS
BULLDOGS v ROVERS
BULLDOGS â 8-10-58 Def By ROVERS â 14-16-100
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
S.Mahoney 4, A.Mills 1, R.Bob 1,
S.Nelson 1, J.Teague
Bulldogs Best:
M.Mahoney, S.Mahoney, J.Percy, A.Mills
Rovers Goalkickers:
BUFFS v TIGERS
Buffs 7-4-46 Def By Tigers 21-20-146
Buffs Goalkickers:
B.Bravos 2, L.Serevi 2, D.Fraser 1,
B.Pierce 1, A.Sheehan 1.Buffs Best:
L.Adams, M.Rhodes, A.SheehanTigers Goalkickers:
C.Hockley 5, J.Emsley 3, C.Nemo 3
ROUND 3 â GAME 1 BATS v BUFFS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, AFL Mount Isa celebrated, along with all other leagues around Australia, 150 years of Australian Rules Football, the weekend called the Community Weekend was a great success with crowds reaching Grand Final like numbers with Barry Lee from MOB FM providing live commentary and music throughout the day. Record numbers of Junior players and parents where treated to a coaching clinic from former Brisbane Lions champion and triple Premiership player Darryl White.
In the early game Lake Nash Bats played the Buffaloes, the Bats got a fantastic start in the first quarter jumping out of the blocks and piled on a healthy 7 goals to Buffs 3 to lead by 4 goals.
The Bats continued on with their fast, fluent football in the second mainly thanks to Adrian Williams who was dominating in the centre and around the ground, big forward Eddie Rusty was becoming a handful for the Buffs backmen, Bats booted 5 goals to 1 to lead at the main break by 28 points.
A better start to the third quarter by the Buffs with stalwart Dan Fraser continuing on with his great form for the season, and along with centreman Luke Adams the Buffs outscored the Bats.
With a 46 point deficit at three quarter time, the Buffs would have to produce a massive comeback to roll the Bats, but it wasnât to be, the Buffs fought hard all day but where out gunned by Williams and partner Desmond Rusty and the Bats posted there second win by 56 points.
Buffs newly appointed coach Phil Bell was pleased with his boys efforts and suggested his players need a fair bit more training under their belts, but is happy with crew and believes his team will only get better as the season goes along.
Adrian Williams was presented with the Community Weekend Best On Ground Medal chosen and presented by Darryl White.
ROUND 3 â GAME 2 TIGERS v ROVERS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the long awaited Grand Final replay from 2007 saw the in form Rovers take to the field against Tigers who where having there first hit out for the season.
From the first bounce the Rovers stamped it authority on the game winning the ball out of the centre and headed straight down the corridor to their forward line where Damien Miza booted the first of 7 first quarter goals booted by the Rovers, a little shell-shocked by the dominant on ballers Tigers found it hard to get into the game, big Jim Emsley gave the Tigers a glimmer of hope booting 2 late goals to make the scoreboard look a little respectable. Rovers by 29 points.
With the Tiger midfield players unavailable for the game, Rovers on ballers and running players where sharing the ball and backing each other up in what could only be described as a polished performance this early in the season, 2007 Cargill Medalist Clinton Austerberry was making his presence felt and made the most of all his possessions setting up forwards, Tigers players hadnât given up lead by Teabag Oliver resulted in a failry even second quarter. Rovers into the main break at half time with a 5 goal lead.
Unselfish and team orientated football saw the Rovers again extend their lead, Aaron Harrison was marking strongly up forward and kicked a couple of goals, the Rovers forward line was creating a headache for Tigers Coach Uncle Fester and the Tigers backmen, a 6 goal to 2 third quarter gave Rovers a commanding lead of 46 points at the last break.
A much fitter Rovers team pumped on the another 6 goals in the last quarter, Clinton Austerberry finished with 5, Aaron Harrison and Damien Miza 4 goals each. Small running players Rory Evans and Simon Pope both played great games for the Rovers while gutsy Jack Doyle, Daniel Kerr and Brian Menz battled hard all day for the Tigers. Rovers eventual winners by massive 81 points.
Rovers coach Bill Cook was happy with the way his team worked hard for each other all game and he congratulated Clinton Austerberry who was named Best On Ground in the late game.
BATS v BULLDOGS
BATS â 18-16-124 Def BUFFS â 10-18-68
Bats Goalkickers:
E.Rusty 6.2, A.Williams 3.3, T.Age 1.2
L.Turner 1.1, C.Philomac 1.2, N.Petrick 1.2, A.Williams 1.0,
B.Anderson 1.1, A.Nelson 1.2.
Bats Best:A.Williams, , E.Rusty, D.RustyBuffs Goalkickers
TIGERS v ROVERS
Tigers 8-6-54 Def By Rovers 21-9-135
Rovers Goalkickers:C.Austerberry 5.1, A.Harrison 4.2,
D.Mizo 4.0, J.Doolan 2.0, S.McCarthy 2.1, K.Bracken 1.0
S.Pope 1.2, M.Blakey 1.0Rovers Best:
C.Austerberry, S.Ross, R.Evans, S.PopeROUND 4 â GAME 1 BULLDOGS v TIGERS
This week in the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, AFL Mount Isa the two bottom teams took to the field at Sunset Park. Tigers who where easily accounted for by Ladder leaders the Rovers last week needed to stand up and prove to all that they where going to be real contenders and not pretenders.
The Tigers got first use of the ball in the early stages of the first quarter but inaccurate kicking for goal, mainly due to a swirling breeze, cost them dearly. Bulldogs kicked 4 goals straight to Tigers 1 goal 5 behinds, Bulldogs Bradley Barber chipped in with 2 goals to help his team to a handy 13 point lead at the first change.
Tigers on ballers began to control the centre bounces thrusting several forward attacks, Big Jim Emsley and small man Calvin Hockley began to find the goals steering there team to hit the lead in the second quarter. Bulldogs Jeremiah Percy and Clifford Morton battled hard to keep their team within 8 points at the main break.
The third quarter saw the Tigers stretch their lead, unfortunately Tigers dual best and fairest and key defender Mick Murnane dislocated his knee cap and was carried from the field, his injury will sideline him for many weeks to come, a devastating loss for the Tigers.
Tigers began to hit some of the 2007 season form which got them within 10 points in last years Grand Final loss to Rovers, Michael King was in everything, taking a couple of great marks around the ground and booting a couple of goals to give him a best on ground performance as Tigers kicked away in the last quarter to win by 59 points.
Tigers coach Shaun Johnson stated his team struggled to move the ball into the wind and their conversion rate on goals early in the game would need improvement.
Bushie Bulldogs coach Ashley Toby was pleased with his teams efforts early in the game, although the Bulldogs did not give in they would need to play 4 quarters of footy to win games.
ROUND 4â GAME 2 BATS v ROVERS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the League leaders Rovers took on the Mighty Bats, the Bats have shown some good recent form and would need to be in top gear if they where to keep up with rampant Rovers well oiled machine.
With the first bounce underway the Rovers midfield players maintained possession and in their customary fashion of running and supporting in numbers the players drove the ball into their forward line with ease, Big Steve Ross provide a focal point along with Aaron Harrison and if not for some inaccurate goal kicking by their forward line players, the Rovers could have sown up the game in the first quarter, scoreline at the first change Rovers 3.7.25 to Bats 2.012.
The second quarter saw a similar scenario, Rovers on ballers lead by Clinton Austerberry again dominated the centre bounces and their key position players where causing headaches for the Bats players. Adrian Williams and Craig Philomac battled hard for the Bats. Rovers at the main change by 37 points.
Bats on-baller Glen Connolly was picking up many possessions for his team, unfortunately up forward they were unable to put all the hard work on the scoreboard. Rovers defense was almost impenetrable nullifying the majority of Bats attacks, Rovers outscored the Bats with 6 goals to nil.
The last quarter and the game was all but over, however the Bats and their never say die attitude saw them pile on 3 quick goals, the Rovers had almost accepted they had won the game, but just as quickly they regained their desire and booted the last 6 goals of the game to soundly beat the Bats 133 to 41, a 92 point win and already a game clear on top of the ladder.
NEXT MATCHES
ROUND 5: (Sunday 24 May 2008)
12.30 PM - BULLDOGS v BUFFS
2.30 PM - BATS v TIGERS
BYE ROVERS
BULLDOGS v TIGERS
BULLDOGS â 8-7-55 Def By TIGERS â 16-18-114
Bulldogs Goalkickers:
B.Barber 4, C.Morton 1, J.Percy 1,
M.Rusty 1, C.Campbell 1.
Bulldogs Best:B.Barber, J.Percy, C.Morton, M.RustyTigers Goalkickers
TIGERS v ROVERS
Bats 8-6-54 Def By Rovers 21-9-133
Bats Goalkickers:
E.Rusty 2, N.Petric 2, G.Payne 1,
C.Philomac 1.Bats Best:
G.Connolly, A.Norton, A.Williams, G.PainRovers Goalkickers:
S.Ross 4, A.Harrison 2,
ROUND 2 â GAME 1 BATS v BULLDOGS
In the early game in the opening round of the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa Premiership season, the two Lake Nash teams travelled to the Isa for the Lake Nash derby, the Bulldogs who finished strong last week against the Buffs would have their work cut out this week and could ill afford a slow start against the Bats.
The first quarter saw the Bats score the first goal through the big fella Nathaniel Petrick, the Bulldogs were not to be out done and kept within striking distance with some great play by Bradley Barber, the score where locked up at 3 goals, 3 behinds a piece.
The Bats got the early jump in the second quarter kicking clear of their rivals, small forward Justin Nelson booted two goals within two minutes to put his team further ahead. Up the other end Bradley Barber was in everything, taking strong marks around the wing and half forward line and setting up scoring opportunities for his forwards. The Bats went into half time with a solid 4 goal buffer.
The third quarter had some excellent free flowing football as both sides used their running players to open up the game and create many opportunities up forward, Bats Nathaniel Petrick was becoming a hand full for his opponents kicking a couple more goals to add to his tally. This quarter saw both teams go goal for goal, the Bats increased their lead at three quarter time to 29 points.
The Bulldogs needed a repeat performance of last weeks last quarter if they where to over run their more fancied opponents, however the Bats continued on their way piling on 9 goals to 3 goals in the last quarter to run out comfortable winners by 65 points. Bats Nathaniel Petrick finished with an accurate 6 goals 1 behind, while Bulldogs Bradley Barber finished with 5 goals 5 behinds in a dominating best on ground performance.
BATS v BULLDOGS
BATS â 23-10-148 Def BULLDOGS â 12-11-83
Bats Goalkickers:
N.Petrick 6.1, E.Holmes 4.0, J.Nelson 3.3
E.Rusty 3.1, A.Williams 2.2, D.Rusty 2.0, S.Teague 1.0, T.Ray 1
Bats Best:
ROUND 2 â GAME 2 ROVERS V BUFFS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the reigning premiers Rovers took to the field for the first time since the narrow victory over Tigers in last years Grand Final. The Buffs who won their opening round clash with the Bulldogs would have their work cut out to topple the ever strong Rover team.
With a slow start to the first quarter, the Rovers kicking for goal early on in the quarter was off line due to some good pressure by the Buffs defence, but it didnât take long and the Rovers forwards found their radar and kicked five unanswered goals in the first quarter to lead by 34 points.
An undermanned Buffs outfit was battling hard in the second quarter and their tenacious efforts began to pay off on the scoreboard. Rovers midfielders were running everywhere and creating opportunities for their forwards, Buffs defenders Daryl Nahow and Michael Rhode moved the football from there backline to their forward line time and time again, Buffs outscored the Rovers in the second quarter but the Rovers still had a handy 31 point lead at the main break.
Rovers new player Chris Bicca was picking up possessions all over the paddock and seemed to be unmanned for the majority of the game, while Aaron Harrison was playing his usual classy role up forward marking strongly and kicking goals. Buffs new player Vili Savuro in his first game of AFL played way beyond anyoneâs expectations. Rovers fitness started to show in the last half and they booted 4 goals to 2 goals in the third quarter to lead by 43 points at three quarter time.
A fairly even last quarter, Buffs full back Nathan Fenner was putting together a best on field performance down back, Nathan has a huge leap and made many come from behind spoils throughout the game, while Simon Pope was playing unmanned in the forward line and if not for his inaccurate kicking of 2 goals 5 behinds could have finished with a bagful. Buffs never gave in all game, but where outplayed by a fitter, classier Rovers outfit, Rovers by 45 points.
Anyone interested in playing senior AFL in Mount Isa please contact Buffs Football Club President on 0418799780.
ROVERS V BUFFS
Rovers 15-15-105 Def BUFFS â 9-6.60
Rovers Goalkickers:
NEXT MATCHES â BYE FOR THE MAY DAY LONG WEEKEND
ROUND 3: (Sunday 11 May 2008) The Community round with the schools.
ROUND 1 â GAME 1 BATS v TIGERS
IN the early game in the opening round of the ABB 2008 AFL Mount Isa unfortunately due to vehicle shortages at Lake Nash the Mighty Bats where unable to make the trip to Mount Isa to take on the 2007 AFL Mount Isa Grand Finalist the Tigers Football Club, Tigers coach Uncle Fester was disappointed but understood the logistical problems the Bats had to face on a weekly basis to travel the 600 km round trip from Lake Nash to Mount Isa and back. The Tigers who are keen to avenge last year Grand Final loss to the Rovers had a light training run at Sunset Oval.
ROUND 1 â GAME 2 BUFFS V BULDOGS
In the main game at 2.30 pm, the Buffaloes Football Club took on the Bushie Bulldogs in what was to be a scrappy, but entertaining game of football. Buffaloes who had an average pre-season have again called on the Clubs Stalwarts, players and supporters, past and present to rally behind the club a few weeks before the season kicked off, and yesterday their calls where answered by excellent player numbers and a good supporter base at Sunset Oval.
The ball bounced for the first time in the AFL Mount Isa 2008 CIE season and the Bulldogs where the first team to get hold of the TW Sherrin and with direct football, the Bulldogs kicked the opening goal within the first minute of play. Buffs answered within a couple of minutes through some good body work up forward by Dan Drier, a fairly even affair for the rest of the quarter with Buffs keeping their nose in front at quarter time.
Buffs started the second quarter with some good free flowing football, Dan Fraser was unmarked up forward and used this to his advantage kicking a few goals and setting up his team mates to convert some majors, up the other end of the oval, Bulldogs Mitchell Mahoney was showing why he will be one of the danger players in the Aussie Rules this year by kicking a couple of goals to keep his team within striking distance at the major half time break.
With the centre bounce contest fairly even during the game, it was a contest for the smaller on ball players to get possession of the footy, Buffs centreman Brad Power was getting plenty of touches and driving the ball forward at all costs. Bulldogs had several young fellas playing their first games for their clubs and all battled hard and will only improve from the experience and the hit out with the big boys. Buffs held on to a handy 10 point lead at three quarter time.
Heading into the last quarter, and only a couple of kicks between the two sides, fitness maybe the deciding factor on who will run out the game and win. Bulldogs seem to take up the challenge best early in the last quarter, running and sharing the ball and kicking a couple of early goals, Buffs never say die attitude allowed them to rebound the ball from their backline with Daryl Nahow picking up many contested possessions and running away on the half backline to produce a couple of great team plays and goals to keep in front, inaccurate kicking by the Bulldogs and great pressure applied by the Buffs backmen and on-ballers allows the Buffs hold on to win their opening game by 3 points.
BUFFS V BULLDOGSS
BUFFS â 15.7.97 Def BULLDOGS â 13.16.94
Buffs Goalkickers
D.Fraser 7.1, B.Clark 3.1, D.Drier 2.0
B.Power 1.1, L.Adams 1.0, E.Bravos 1.2Buffs Best
B.Clark, D.Nahow, D.FraserBulldogs Goalkickers:
: .:
A.Harrison 5.1, S.Ross 3.0,
J.Doolan 2.1, S.Pope 2.5, C.Austerberry 1.2, J.Thom 1.0
R.Evans 1.1Rovers Best:
C.Bicca, S.Ross, A.Grubb, J.ThomA.Williams, E.Holmes, N.Patrick, J.NelsonBulldogs Goalkickers:
Last Modified on 05/04/2009 07:58