What a game. In our first home game of the year, it was the pumas that finished strong to take the 4 points against a very competitive Kedron/Grange.
During the week at training we spoke about how we have to move forward from game 1 and achieve some consistency in the form of pressuring the opposition and forcing a contest. In the end it was a game won by a team rather than 22 players.
The first quarter showed just how competitive we can and have to be as a fast, flowing and hard contested game unfolded with the pumas having their noses in front at quarter time. Jamie again started strong in outmuscling some of the bigger opponents and penetrated the ball into our forward line. Terrific run off from Nick on half back launched our attacks whilst Declan showed again his competitiveness with another solid performance from the back-pocket.
For the second quarter we demanded more pressure from our forwards and wingers as we looked to extend our lead. A lift from Cross and Fitzy along the half forward line limited the oppositions run-off whilst working hard to lead when we had the ball. Hammy gave the coaches a heart attack as he went down clutching a shoulder but thankfully was able to continue. Rob was asked the impossible to ruck and gave his best around the ground. The second quarter also saw first-season Britney become more involved in our link-up play with some strong marks and great pressure.
The third quarter was a tough one for the pumas as our defence was tested as Kedron gained an advantage with the wind and drove the ball long. Fantastic work rate and second efforts from TPS, Freckles and Hammy repelled and rebounded their attacks. It was the second efforts from the smaller players that impressed as Sammy, Pykey and Jack all played their role.
The fourth quarter we demanded a lift as the game was clearly in the balance and it was our discipline and determination that saw us through. Another terrific final quarter from Riley and Jamie starting in the middle gave us drive forward but it seemed Kedron were gaining momentum. A masterstroke from assistant coach Dan Schmidt to move Jai back into the middle and Riley to run off half-back paid dividends as our opposition struggled to get past that brick wall. A no backchat policy saw the umpire give many 50’s against Kedron to give us valuable territory and an invaluable 4 points.
Another positive note from the weekend was the 2012 arrival of Simmo. For a player we rate so highly, his ability at training to absorb everything the coaches have said and turn that selflessness into game day was outstanding. Winning the ball and pressuring the opposition off the wing is a new level for him but hopefully one that he can achieve consistently.
Game two is done. We must now keep our feet on the ground and do it all again next week. Definitely more improvement left in us team, see you Monday Pumas. Congratulations Riley on 50 games.
Matt Preston-Smith
Score:
Springwood 5. 4. 34 def Kedron Grange 3. 5. 23
Last Modified on 14/05/2012 19:22