A thrashing at the hands of the opposition in the first round of competition wouldn't normally be met with more than some terse words and some extra training sessions, but there were more good reasons for the players and supporters to be buoyed by Saturday's game. With a great vibe around the club and universal agreement that while the year may not be met with overwhelming success on the paddock, it is the start of something special. The long term development of the younger players is the club's focus and their determined endeavour would have pleased Coaches Milbourne and Rowe who now have 70 players committed to the highs and lows with the Pumas this season.
Special mention is given to ruckman Geoff Gibbons who was typical of the spirit in the side and gave his all in his first game in the Seniors team for his club. Long time player with the Pumas, Clayton Barnes, who has also been one of the best trainers in the pre-season was rewarded with his promotion to the Seniors team and shared the player's player award for the day with Dwayne Catterwell. Former Puma junior Nick Tronc also returned to the Puma den to play his first senior game. The performance of the Seniors' leadership group of Murrihy, Ross and Raudino and Hendry was tremendous as they continually set the standard for the younger brigade following in their footsteps. Captain Shane Murrihy was adjudged best on ground, with Ryan Ross and Rob Raudino, the runners-up for the awards. In a coming of age, four under 18 players debuted for the Pumas. Will Sutton, Taylor Ross, Josh Menz and Luke Ruf displayed the qualities that left no doubt in the minds of club officials and supporters that the path to the club's future success was firmly cemented. Taylor Ross showed his strength to earn the praise of Coach Milbourne and his award for the match.
The Reserves were a far better outfit in the second half of their match with a final quarter performance that would encourage Coach Simon Rowe for next week. With a never give up attitude typical of the Pumas during their practice matches, their endeavour in round 1 was no different. Former Moorooka player, Damian Creely's effort was outstanding and he was rewarded with 2 goals and the best on ground award for the Pumas. Aaron Flynn was voted by his peers as their player of the match and Puma youngsters Tiger Monk (Coaches Award), Jamie Mills ( BoG runner-up) and Jake McGill showed glimpses of what they will bring to the club's senior footy team in the future.
Other special cameos for the day were Seniors assistant coach Shane Monk pulling on the boots 'one more time' to play alongside son Tiger, and brothers Ryan and Taylor Ross and Russell and Wayne Ollington, together in the trenches.
Next Saturday, the teams travel to Burleigh, who will be looking to post their first win after finishing with a late flourish last weekend in their loss to the improving Coolangatta.
All the results from last weekends' games can be found by clicking on the PHC logo " Fixtures & Results" on the top right of the club's website.
Last Modified on 07/09/2008 01:29