Last weeks Easter Saturday clash certainly lived up to the pre-game hype.
The Hawks nearly kicked themselves out of the game in the first quarter. Dominant all over the ground, we were unable to finish accurately and this gave the Tigers a sniff. Cobram took control and, after hitting the front, it was their turn to be inaccurate and they took a 16 point lead into the long break. The second half was an arm wrestle. The Hawks re-established a 3 point buffer by three quarter time. What followed was exhilarating last quarter which was described by many at the ground as one of the best quarters of country footy theyd seen. A dubious umpiring decision led to Stuey Galloway slotting the winning goal but irate Cobram fans conveniently overlooked the blatant goal umpiring mistake that allowed them to hold the lead into the dying seconds.
It was the type of win that shapes seasons and the Hawks will want to stay on a roll now that were on the board. Sean Robbins led the way with a brilliant game all over the ground. Matty Hyde and James Hazelman picked up major incentive awards and Matt Hendry and Jamie Stanyer were resolute in defence and received the minor incentives. A number of others made valuable contributions.
The Reserves continued their phenomenal winning run but were made to work hard for the points. A three goal third term alloed the boys to establish a 15 point lead at the final break and they held on strongly to win by 14 points. Joel Kirk had another great game to keep his name in front of the Senior selectors and he duly collected a Bottom Pub Award. Brenton Apex Hunt showed what a valuable player he will be and he also collected a Bottom Pub Award. Glen Elleray (Menthas) and young Jackson Brooks (Barooga Sporties) had a real crack while Rhys Holt and Nick Flanagan worked hard all day.
The Thirds were disappointing against their main rivals and would be happy they didnt have to be at school this week. The Tigers won the bragging rights with the Hawks failing to fire a shot for much of the game. Hayden Atkinson-Thring (Menthas) and Troy Dunn (Andrew Jenkins Real Estate) played very well as did Sam Jenkins (Barooga General Store). Riley Brooks (Babcon Hire), Conor Ryan and Tom Currie rallied hard to try to get the Hawks going but, at the end of the day, there were too many passengers.
You cant wipe the smile off Mick Dunns face after the Fourths pulled off one of the biggest comebacks witnessed at this level. Down 5-3 to 0-0 the game looked done and dusted but these fledgling Hawks are not to be underestimated. Mick fired them up at quarter time and they booted 7-3 to 0-3 in the remaining 3 quarters to pull off a magnificent win against the reigning premiers. Daniel Russell (Barooga Bakery) led by example, Jay Dunn (Barooga General Store) hurt his former side and Cal Leighton-Daly (Spanner Brooks) is in great form. Braydon Smith (Barooga IGA), Tom McNeill and Jake Jenkins were also very good.
This week we host Echuca United. Lets clip their wings in all grades!!
Go Hawks
Squawk