A fantastic team effort by 21 contributors on the day, we had 21 players performing their role for the team and all wanting the same outcome.
Two weeks ago we spoke about courage and showed it in a solid performance against Wentworth. Last week against Imperials I thought it was pride that was on display as we showed how proud we were to come together and follow a plan and share in a great victory for the club.
We were led well by our captain Richie Handreck in what was a stellar game as he shut down Imps coach Andrew Petrie. We were very fortunate to have him play as he could have easily been representing his state last weekend.
Steven Denaro was again very good for us as he worked tirelessly in the middle. Backing him up was Donny Falvo and John Jackson as our midfield dominated the opposition. Leon Johnson and Justin Neyland worked effectively in the ruck giving our onballers first use.
Mark Zappia played a great defensive game limiting his opponents influence.
Our back six were fantastic again with Dave Albanese and Vince Iudica leading the way. Our big blokes in Jarrod Alderton and Brent O’Connor also played important roles for us on the day, and up forward we had the likes of Brad O’Connor giving our smalls in Peter Zappia and Isaiah Johnson first use.
All in all we had a fantastic contribution from all 21 players.
On Saturday we had a group of blokes who were willing to put the team first. We followed our game plan for the majority of the day; we were predictable and supportive of each other. Because of this we have lifted our expectation of one another and as of last Saturday we met those expectations.
The question remains, can we continue this form? Can we keep laying 20 tackles a quarter? Can we keep putting the team first before our individual game?
As we embark into the last month of the home and away season I believe we have shown ourselves and the critics that we can play a very good quality of football that can rival any team in the competition.
The challenge is to keep it up. Think about all the things we implemented 4 weeks ago, do you think if we slacken off will we still get the same results? We’ll never know because (slackening off) is not an option. We have raised the bar and need to continue meeting the mark. Those that fade away from the team structure will be replaced by those that are prepared to do that.
It’s great to have competition on spots at the moment and I urge those in the reserves and 18’s still pushing for senior selection not to lose focus. Keep turning up to all the sessions and playing well, keep putting your name up there. No shortcuts.
Website Editor