Under 13 Green - Now Under 14 Blue - Information for Season 2007
To all Under 14 Players
Football Trainning begins on Wednesday 14 February at Merri Park
( Behind Northcote High School, near the play ground. Not near the Baseball
nets)
All three teams will be trainning from 5pm until 6pm. Bring a
drink ware sunscreen if required and don't forget to were runners as the
ground is firm.
Look foward to seeing as many as are able to attend.
For the latest information we will try to keep the U 14 club web
site updated. This should be the first point of call.
Also I'm hoping that the grapevine is still working.
Terry Hogan on behalf of Matt and Tom
Earlier Message
Hi and welcome back to Fitzroy
Junior Football Club for the 2007 Season.
LAST YEARS DETAILS: COACH: TEAM MANAGER: TONY GILLBERG email: [email protected] TRAINING: Saturdays 9.00am - 10.30am Alfred Cres. IMPORTANT: If you cannot play this week, please contact Tony or Mark before the weekend. NEXT GAME: Unless there are a couple of very strange results in the last round, there is no next game till 2007.
AS THIS WILL MOST LIKELY BE OUR LAST GAME OF THE SEASON (BARRING A MIRACLE!)- PLAYERS, FAMILIES & FRIENDS ARE ALL ENCOURAGED TO MEET AT THE FITZROY BOWLING CLUB FROM 5.30PM THIS SUNDAY TO GET TOGETHER AND SAY GOODBYE TO THE SEASON. DRINKS & MEALS AVAILABLE. MATCH REPORT ROUND 16. SUNDAY 6 AUGUST 2006 FITZROY 2 v. BANYULE
The Roys faced a home game against the bottom side in our final home and away game for the season. Last week's loss meant that we would need to rely on both Kew Rovers & Beverley Hills having losses this weekend if we were to climb back into the four (perhaps some Italian-style match fixing could be in order?). In contrast to most game days this season, we had a glorious, sunny, still morning for our final match. Chris was captain for the day and directed us to the Clifton Hill end for the opening term. Banyule were a player short and we had to ask for volunteers to even up the teams. This is a horrible thing to ask the team and I am very grateful for Sam W, Kristian, Moreno & Alex T for unselfishly putting up their hands. As usual, we started badly and again conceded the first goal, before Sam Hogan made things even after a wonderful piece of team work from Lachlan. A great goal from Murray and then a second from Sam Hogan put us in front at quarter time. Paddy & Jesse were on fire early and both were rested at quarter time to stop them contracting leather poisoning. We continued our good form in the second quarter, with Murray's dazzling form in the ruck being a major highlight. Murray capped this off with another goal- his second for the match and the season. Not to be outdone, Moreno got into the action- first with a strong mark and then with a goal after he was awarded a free kick. Then our latest goal-sneak, shy Sam Hogan made it a personal hat-trick of goals for the first half. Once again, our defence was very strong in the first half. Magnus was playing at his bustling best and Zeb & Hamish were providing valuable support. The third quarter started with our skipper, Chris, being moved to Full Forward. No sooner had he arrived in the goal square, when Christian hit him square on the chest with a precision pass. Chris capped off the lead and mark with his well-deserved first goal of the year. This certainly sparked the side and soon Declan added another goal, quickly followed by Kristian, who was carrying on his great second quarter form in a Banyule jumper, to even better play back in the Lions colours. No goal scoring spree is complete without Christian getting amongst the action, and he soon got his name on the score sheet after some great help from Alex T who was enjoying a run on the ball. Two goals from great marks on the forward line, first by Sam W and then from Paddy saw us take a commanding lead into the last quarter. The last quarter saw us add two more goals, the first from a skillful left foot snap from Will after a clever pass from Zeb. The last goal came after the siren after a strong kick from Sam W, who posted his second for the game. The last quarter highlighted our strong marking and solid running, with Raph, Declan & Sam Horsburgh running riot and causing more trouble than a group of Collingwood players outside a night club. Alex H was extremely busy and Paddy & Jesse continued where they left off at quarter time. Kostas & Hamish seemed to be everywhere and, Sam Hogan was just as prominent when he took a spell down in defence, turning back some dangerous Banyule attacks. A very good effort and a positive finish to the season. (Or is it? We'll have to wait for other results) Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 13.5.83 Banyule 2.2.14 Goals: Sam Hogan 3, Murray White 2, Sam Walker 2, Moreno Mazzah, Chris Stuart, Declan Canavan, Kristian Nagel, Christian Sullivan-McNeill, Will Lovett.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 15. SUNDAY 30JULY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. KEW ROVERS After climbing our way into the Four for the first time this season, we faced a tough task in staying there as we met the team we dislodged, Kew Rovers, at their home ground this week. The surface at St.James Park (named after the patron saint of howling winds) looked dodgier than a professional cyclist's blood sample after a week of sunshine had turned the middle of the ground from a mud heap the week before into square of baked concrete. Paddy got the role of captain this week and was greeted by not one, but two field umpires when he arrived for the toss. Our clever centreman called correctly and we kicked off with the aid of a squaling tail wind. Despite having the wind behind us, conditions were difficult and kicking accurately to position was proving to be almost impossible. Nevertheless, goals from Raph and then Kristian saw us hold a two goal lead at quarter time. The second quarter proved to be hard work for the Roys. Kew Rovers poured on the pressure, but were unable to convert their chances. By half time, scores were level. The comparison of our 2-2 to Kew's 1-8 showed just how fortunate we were not to have fallen behind. The third quarter saw Kew score a tough goal against the wind to really put the pressure onto our team. A rally late in the quarter, including a great goal from Christian, saw us hold a fragile 3 point advantage at the final break. The run to the final siren was going to be tough and this certainly proved to be the case. We started the quarter well and had early chances to increase our lead. However, Kew were storming home and were whittling away our lead, point by point. Solid defending by Fitzroy was keeping Kew at bay, but it seemed our best chance of holding on was when the footy bounced onto Burwood Road after Kew scored a behind, and nearly landed on board a tram heading for the city. (There is no time on in these games!) It was a classic case of clutching at straws and, inevitably, Kew drew level and then moved away with two last quarter goals to record a hard-fought win. So, notwithstanding a series of unexpected results in other games, it looks like we have failed in our late bid for the finals. We have not had the best of luck- we had players injured and sick at crucial times and our fixture of games has made it all the tougher. I believe we have done well to get where we are at this point of time and we still have at least next week to show what we can do. We have seen many players improve markedly as the season progressed. Murray's dashing game today was testimony to this. I thought our backline did a great job again today, particularly Magnus, Hamish, Zeb, Kostas and later, Alex T. The dash shown by Kristian showed just how much we missed him early in the season. Christian & Paddy again worked hard and it was pleasing to see Lachlan & Sam Hogan have such good games. It's not over yet. Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 3.6.24 Kew Rovers 4.16.40 Goals: Raphael Symons, Kristian Nagel, Christian Sullivan-McNeill.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 14. SUNDAY 23 JULY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. HEIDELBERG It will be impossible to write about this match without using the tired cliche 'a game of two halves'. This was a crucial game for Fitzroy. A win would keep our finals chances alive, while a loss means that we would be spending our weekends in August doing things other than footy. (Hmmm). The coach risked the favourtism taunts, resulting in Declan leading the side out onto a dry Ramsden Street under threatening grey skies over Collingwood. (Obscure musical reference for fans of Weddings Parties Anything & Strange Tenants). From the outset, it was obvious that Heidelberg were in good form and were keen to defend their position in the four. They were first to the ball and were unlucky not to be leading by more than two points to nil at quarter time. Good defending by Sam W, Magnus & Zeb helped stop the damage. The Berger Boys continue to pile on the pressure and extended their lead to 11 points by virtue of the only goal of the first half. We were scoreless and in more trouble than North Melbourne's clubrooms at the main break. A frustrated coach even contemplated bringing on Alex M in his plaster cast and crutches, before common sense prevailed. At the start of the second half there was a clap of thunder, a bolt of lightning and, lo and behold, the Roys were away. Paddy's goal got our scorekeepers busy for the first time, and when Christian goaled we had hit the front. The rain was falling and it was very dark and this seemed to restrict Heidelberg's game. Will, Lachy & Sam Hogan were creating opportunites and Kristian, Raph & Jesse were constantly getting loose across the centre. We went into the final quarter with a narrow lead, but we came home with the proverbial wet sail. Two more goals from Christian and then one from Alex H saw us finish with an unlikely comfortable victory. Alex H & Alex L were dominant in the second half, as were Christian & Kostas who starred all day in a wonderful performance. The highlight of the last quarter was a fantastic individual effort from Hamish who turned back a dangerous Heidelberg attack with a dashing run from defence. However, the real stars of the second half were all of our backmen, Hamish, Magnus, Zeb, Sam H, Chris, Murray & Alex T who kept their opponents scoreless after Half Time (a major turnaround after the first half). As the wise analysts cleverly concluded after the game, we obviously like it wet! Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 5.4.34 Heidelberg 1.5.11 Goals: Christian Sullivan-McNeill 3, Patrick McBrearty, Alex Hasiotis.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 13. SUNDAY 16 JULY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. EMMAUS WATTLE PARK The Roys had a hard act to follow this week as we backed up from our triumphant upset win from last Sunday. We learned a couple of things before the game. One- there actually is a suburb called Bennetswood, and Two- that we had a team which was reduced to 19 players, with sickness and injury keeping Jesse, Kostas & Alex M out of the team. Unfortunately, Alex's injury will see him out of the team for the rest of the season. How many times has the coach pleaded, 'No Ice Skating before the game?' Well, none actually, but in hindsight, it's good advice! As skipper for the week, Sam Hogan got to lead the team out onto a water-sodden Bennetswood Sports Ground. We quietly observed that the name Bennetswood must be derived from the aboriginal place name meaning 'place with copious amounts of mud'. The first quarter was a tough struggle for both teams. Fitzroy were able to get the upper hand early with good goals from Kristian and Alex T, before Emmaus fought back with their first goal. Murray continued his good form with some solid work in defence and Moreno was relishing the heavy conditions up forward and helped set up both of the goals, by feeding the ball out of the packs and pile-driving his tacklers deep into the famous Bennetswood slush. Emmaus kept close contact with us in the second quarter and added another goal, but goals to Sam Horsburgh and Declan saw us hold a narrow 7 point lead at Half Time. Declan's goal seemed to cure the pain from his rib injury and was a reward for staying on the ground after an injury to Paddy. Paddy was OK to continue in the second half, and it was his dominance, as well as a magnificent season-best quarter from Alex H which gave us the upper hand in the third quarter. Sam W was on the end of the 'team goal of the year' after a wonderful, extended series of clever and skillful handpasses by a variety of players. (In this passage of play, we made more passes than Shane Warne would make on a big night out in London!) Kristian then joined in with a clever snap shot for his second goal as our inspired team-play was proving to be a decisive factor in the game. Alex L & Hamish were finding plenty of space on their own, to help keep the ball in the forward line where Christian & Will were continually gaining possessions and setting up scoring chances. Emmaus could not penetrate our Half Back line where Zeb was having a field day, backed up by the ever-reliable Magnus. It was a great effort from the defenders who managed to keep our opponents scoreless after Half Time. Fitzroy assumed complete control in the final quarter, keeping the ball in our forward half for the whole of that period. Goals from Raph and Christian, followed by two late goals from Paddy, saw us run away with the game. Raph's second half up forward was particularly influential, as he continued his great form by taking several very strong, contested marks. Another great win, with our running, team-play being the most pleasing feature. If we can maintain this type of form, we will trouble any team in the competition. Well played, everyone. Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 10.9.69 Emmaus Wattle Park 2.7.19 Goals: Kristian Nagel 2, Patrick McBrearty 2, Alex Taylor, Sam Horsburgh, Declan Canavan, Sam Walker, Raphael Symons & Christian Sullivan-McNeill.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 12. SUNDAY 9 JULY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. CAMBERWELL W We were back on familiar territory this week as we returned to Peterson Oval to play familiar opposition in Camberwell. In fact, this was our third clash this season against a Camberwell team who have been at the top of the ladder all year. Frankly, we'd met more times than the Coyote had met with the Roadrunner and with a combined score-line of 17 goals to one in our previous meetings, it was not hard to guess whose record most resembled that of the clever, but unlucky carnivorous canine. The mood in the rooms was very positive before the game. The coach was rambling on about belief in our ability and belief in our team mates. For some reason, some of the players actually seemed to be taking an interest. Kristian Nagel assumed the captain's role and led a confident team onto the field in the first quarter. There was plenty of aggressive and positive play in the opening term and we had a soccer-like Nil All score-line at quarter time, with neither team giving an inch. The second quarter was another hard fought affair, with Fitzroy assuming the lead after Fillipo signalled his welcome return to the team with a hard-earned goal. It was 1-1-7 to Nil at Half Time and things were going well for our team. This is about the place in the Match report where I normally write how we fought bravely but were overcome by superior opposition in the second half. Not so today- hence the delay in posting the Match Report, as I had to rewrite the script. Camberwell lingered in the rooms for ages at Half Time as they planned their expected comeback. When they finally emerged from the rooms, they met a Fitzroy team that was eager to carry on where they had left off at Half Time. Goals from Declan and Sam Horsburgh extended our lead, before Camberwell goaled for their first score of the game. In the last quarter, the Roys stuck to their task and the result was never in doubt. A great running goal from Sam Hogan ensured that Camberwell were to suffer an unaccustomed and unexpected defeat. Without doubt, this was a great win for Fitzroy. It was satisfying to have a full side and properly use the Interchange Bench for the first time this year. Fillipo and Harry were great replacements after the unfortunate loss of Alex L & Hamish. I must make special mention of Murray, who did a stirling job in the ruck to cover the loss of Alex L. Sam Horsburgh was also terrific on the ball and was a deserved winner of Camberwell's Best player Medal. Our defenders played tight and disciplined football all day, with players like Magnus, Zeb, Alex H and Kostas dominating all day. Raph's high marking in defence was a joy to see. We should not under-estimate the achievement of keeping the top side scoreless for the first half. Sam W, Lachlan, Sam Hogan & Chris made solid contributions at both ends of the field, while our midfielders, led by Alex M, Will, Christian, Alex T and Paddy, never stopped running and looking for team mates. Up forward, Jesse & Declan kept leading and using the space created by Moreno crashing through the opposition backmen. And finally, a special mention for Kristian Nagel, whose tireless efforts saw him truly deserve the honour of leading our victorious team off the ground at the end of the game. A great win from a team who finally realised what they can achieve if they put their minds to it. Hip Hip Hooray!!! (Might start watching the Cartoon Channel again- who knows.........there might be hope yet for the coyote!)
Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 4.5.29 Camberwell W 2.1.13 Goal: Fillipo Palermo, Declan Canavan, Sam Horsburgh, Sam Hogan.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 11. SUNDAY 2 JULY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. ST.MARY'S It was a wet and miserable morning on the last day of the School Holidays (for most) when Fitzroy lined up against third placed St. Mary's at Ramsden Street. The holidays had taken their toll on both teams. St.Mary's only had 15 players, while we could only muster up one more with 16. This meant both sides fielded 15 players, with us having one on the Interchange Bench. Our captain, Hamish, led the side onto the ground in front of a small crowd huddled around the BBQ, with some taking cover in their cars. It was a scrappy first quarter, with St.Mary's scoring the only goal. Murray was playing his best quarter of the season and, as luck would have it, he ended the quarter with a wrist injury that saw him off for the rest of the game. 15 players all. We had the scoring end in the second term and controlled the play throughout. However, we had no luck in front of goal and it was still one goal to nil at half time. (Shades of the soccer World Cup!) Declan had replaced Murray, but he too ended up in the hands of the St.Johns Ambulance by the time it was half time. Now St. Mary's were forced to have one player on the bench and on the ground it was now 14 a side. The St.John's team were busier than the Italian Soccer Team's Acting Advisors. St. Mary's got back on top in the third quarter and our back line did a mighty job to restrict them to only one goal. It was pleasing to see Magnus back to his bustling best after returning from an injury absence. In the last quarter, it was one goal each, with Fitzroy again controlling much of the play, but not capitalising on our forward opportunities. It was left to Sam Walker to score our only goal with a solid, straight shot for goal late in the game. All in all, it was a long hard slog for all players today. A heavy ground, a heavy ball and only 14 players each on the big ground meant we had a team of very tired players by the end of the match. I was very pleased to see so many players continue to run and run, despite the difficult conditions. Paddy, Hamish & Kristian just kept going and going. Alex L was tireless in the middle and we had a full team of solid contributors right throughout the match. Looking forward to having a full team to share the load next week. (Please let us know if you are unavailable to play- it is frustrating when players choose to just not show up.)
Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 1.5.11 St. Mary's 3.7.25 Goal: Sam Walker. MATCH REPORT ROUND 10. SUNDAY 18 JUNE 2006 FITZROY 2 v. FITZROY 3 This was a much anticipated game as Fitzroy 2 were pitted against another Fitzroy team, affectionately known as Fitzroy 3. The 'threes' have an impressive record and deserved to start the game as favourites. We were billed as the Away team by virtue of the fixture and were quickly consigned to the Visitors Change Rooms and the alternative playing strip. The Away jumpers were in the National colours of Green & Gold, but sadly it seemed these jumpers were first worn back in the years before Federation. The 'Twos' resembled Street Kids in their tattered rags, but at least the taunts of Inner City Toffs were at last confined to history. Frankly, these jumpers had more holes than John Howard's Immigration Policy. An in-form Raph took charge of the team as captain and Kostas was handed a leadership role in our defensive half. The Threes hit the front early, but by Quarter Time we had equalised after a great Moreno mark was converted into a goal by Raph. The second quarter saw the Threes take over with three unanswered goals. They were getting great run through the midfield and leading our players to the ball. We had a lot of work to do after being three goals down at Half Time. We started the third quarter well with Alex Moloney kicking the best individual goal I have seen by a Fitzroy player this year. It was a scintillating piece of football. However, a lapse from our team in the latter half of the quarter saw the Threes put themselves in a commanding position going into the last quarter. The last quarter was even with one goal apiece (our goal from a great snap from Paddy), but the damage had already been done. A disappointing loss against our Fitzroy rivals. Congratulations to the winning side on a comprehensive victory. The game was played in a great spirit which was carried on into the crowd of parochial parents who had added passion and interest in today's proceedings. From a 'Twos' perspective, we have a bit of work to do if we are to reverse today's result, should we happen to score a replay later in the year. Special mentions to Sam Horsburgh, Alex H, Alex M, Paddy, Kostas, Alex L, Alex T & Raph who were our standouts on the field today. Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 3.3.21 Fitzroy 3 9.3.57 Goals: Raphael Symons, Alex Moloney, Patrick McBrearty.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 9. SUNDAY 4 JUNE 2006 FITZROY 2 v. DONCASTER
After a disappointing effort last week, the Roys were keen to show the best form back on home territory this week. It was our first game of the year at Ramsden Street and it was a welcome sight to see lots of familar faces at the ground to spur us on. Our clubmates from Fitzroy 3 provided a thrilling curtain-raiser and the stage was set for our team to show the crowd what we can do. The coach stressed the importance of making a good start and urged the players to have confidence in themselves. Alex L led the team out as our captain for the day and the minute the side hit the ground it was evident we were 'on song'. Our first quarter opening of four goals to nil was by far our best beginning of the year. Paddy was everywhere early and snapped 2 quick goals. Christian & Kristian were showing that they had retuned to sparkling form with lots of running and quick possessions. Sam Horsburgh made his presence felt with some positive forward work and a nice goal. Lachy was dominating and was also rewarded with a goal. It was great to see Moreno using his strength and getting his hands on the ball, helping to set up one of our goals. As expected, Doncaster started to play much better in the second quarter and Fitzroy had to work harder for the ball. Magnus was playing well, doing what he does best- charging down the ground full throttle, repeatedly driving us back into attack. Zeb & Hamish also got their chance to show that they were in good form as well. Sam Hogan was busy across the centre and a busy Alex M was carrying on his great work from the first quarter. Alex H was enjoying a run on the ball and was able kick his first goal of the season. Great to hear that Alex felt the need to apologise to Christian after chipping in front of him to take the mark. We led by 7 goals to 2 at Half Time and were playing with renewed confidence. The third quarter was our best, with several scintillating passages of inspired team play. Alex L was unstoppable in the ruck and his efforts in taking marks a kick back from the play was a highlight. There was one particular passage of play, topped off by a wonderful goal from Will that was the best piece of play from our team all year. Declan, Kristian, Christian and Paddy all added goals during this quarter. Jesse & Will were a great combination up forward today. Zeb & Alex T were probably our best ball winners this quarter, capitalising on the plentiful supply of the ball from Alex L. In the last quarter, Declan went into the ruck, but this did not stop him adding 2 more goals to take his game tally to 5. Chris & Murray went up forward and made their presence felt late in the game after being in defence for the first three quarters. Sam W was a good contributor who seem to enjoy being moved from full forward out onto the flank. We managed four goals in the final quarter, including one more from Christian and a great long goal from Sam Horsburgh after the siren. All up, we ended with 16 goals- by far our best effort this year. It could have been more if we had not over-crowded our forward line late in the game. A mighty team effort today. We had so many good players and many who played their best games of the year. Lachy, Kristian, Sam Hogan & Will were four who saved their best for today. It just goes to show what a bit of confidence can do! Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 16.13.109 Doncaster 3.0.18 Goals: Declan Canavan 5, Patrick McBrearty 3, Sam Horsburgh 2, Christian Sullivan-McNeill 2, Lachlan Calder 1, Alexander Hasiotis 1, Will Lovett 1, Kristian Nagel 1.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 8. SUNDAY 28 MAY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. BEVERLEY HILLS
It was a late start to our Round Eight match against Beverley Hills, but the starting time was supposed to be 3.00pm- not 3.30 pm. Well, that's the time that Fitzroy got going in this match. Once again, we were 'jumped' in the first quarter and had given away a match winning lead by the time it was half time. Officially, the game started on time and Beverley Hills slammed on four first quarter goals. They then went on to dominate the second quarter, leaving us goal-less at half time. The things that have been our strengths this year- our tackling and running, were sadly missing early in the game. We let Beverley Hills collect the ball unopposed on too many occasions and they made the most of their easy possessions. At Half Time, winning Fitzroy players were harder to find than the Sierra Leone Commonwealth Games Team. Raph on the forward line and Zeb & Alex T were amongst our best contributors in the First Half. The second half was an improvement, as Fitzroy realised that they could land some effective tackles on their bigger running opponents. Beverley Hills are sponsored by KFC and the Colonel's recipe has helped develop some big strong bodies. Having said that, Beverley Hills had lots of good running players and a fleet of smaller players who did a great job as well. It was great to see Kristian back in the side after injury and he landed some solid tackles in the second half, as well as giving us some 'run'. Alex L tackled strongly and Paddy, Kostas & Hamish were following his lead. We created some good opportunities in the third quarter, with some clever team play by Moreno & Will. Our captain for the day, Christian, kicked our first goal in the third quarter. In the final quarter, Jesse kicked a great goal and later Sam W snapped his first for the season to help us match our opponents in the second half of the game. However, Beverley Hills were able to answer our challenges and capitalise on their great first half, to end up recording a comfortable victory. Not a great day for our team, but there were some good individual performances worth mentioning. I thought Zeb & Alex M played their best games for the year. Alex T had a great game at Full Back, Declan's marking and leading was terrific and Jesse is starting to loook like a dangerous target up forward. Christian, Alex H, Alex L & Paddy played with their usual hard efforts. In the end, there were too many skills errors and a lack of team work that cost us today. I realise we cannot all train together on Saturdays, but I ask all players to make a dedicated effort to get to a training session during the week. It is vital if we are to improve this year.
Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 3.2.20 Beverley Hills 10.7.67 Goals: Christian Sullivan-McNeill, Jesse Bowerman, Sam Walker.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 7. SUNDAY 21 MAY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. CAMBERWELL W It was an early morning alarm for the Roys this week as we faced another Camberwell side, once again at Lynden Park. Surprisingly, for the first time in four weeks, we awoke to warm and sunny conditions for our dawn clash with the ladder leaders. Zeb was our captain for this important game and the side was keen to do well. Camberwell were kicking to the scoring end and they were able to get away to a strong start, kicking three goals to nil in the opening term. (We believe they got 3 goals, but it was difficult to tell- the Team Manager had left the goal umpire's flags on his clothes line and Angus, our goal umpire, was forced to wave two relay batons to signal a major score!) Despite this, we had plenty of the ball and looked competitive. Alex L was winning in the ruck and Declan & Raphael were looking threatening up forward, with strong leading and marking. The second quarter was our best. We kept Camberwell scoreless and got on the board after a strong mark and a beautiful long goal from Sam Horsburgh. By half time, we looked to be well in the match. In the centre, Paddy, Alex M & Kostas had as much work to do as Rex Hunt's Marriage Counsellor and they were managing their workload very well. A few better options with our disposals and we could well have been in front. Usually, the third quarter is our best, but sadly- not today. Camberwell piled on the pressure, as well as another three goals, to skip well away. We were well and truly off our game in the third quarter and by the time Camberwell booted another goal after the siren, we were in more trouble than the operators of the Arthur's Seat chair lift! While we put up a better performance in the final quarter, Camberwell drew further away for a well deserved victory. After two wins in a row, we thought that the opposition had to get up pretty early in the morning to beat us! Unfortunately for us, they did! While the loss was a sober reminder that we are by no means at the top of the Blue Division, there were still a lot of positives to come out of the game. Alex H played his best game of the year and was rewarded with a medal from the opposition. Lachy & Jesse took strong, contested marks in the forward line and Sam W, Alex T & Will had a strong finishes to the game. Sam Hogan, Chris & Murray continue to improve and get more and more of the ball. We matched the top side when it came to getting the ball, but we were well behind when it came to skills. A bit of work to do on our kicking skills and team work. Too many turnovers and too many inaccurate kicks to team mates.
Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 1.2.8 Camberwell W 10.3.63 Goals: Sam Horsburgh 1.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 6. SUNDAY 14 MAY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. KEW ROVERS For the third week in a row we were confronted with wet and miserable conditions as we arrived for our Mother's Day clash with Kew Rovers. Kew are one place above us on the ladder, so a win was important. The shelter of the grandstand was the place to watch the game and it was great to see so many supporters (including some 'spies' from Fitzroy 3) huddled in the stand, keeping the pigeons and hobos company. This week's captain, Alex H, won the toss and directed us to what was to be the scoring end for the first quarter. For the second week in a row, we were first team to score with Christian kicking the opening goal. Sam Horsburgh kicked a nice goal later on and we held a 2 goal advantage at the first break. Alex L was winning well in the centre and Raph and Jesse were looking dangerous on the forward line making many positive leads up the ground. Murray was putting in hard for the ball, creating opportunities for players running past. We started the second quarter as well as the first with goals from Declan & Christian helping to stretch our lead. However, the rest of the quarter belonged to Kew Rovers who failed to make the most of the opportunities near goal. At half time it was 4.0 to 1.6. Backmen Magnus & Lachlan had plenty to do and helped to resrtict Kew's scoring with some tight defending. Kostas & Alex M were very busy in the midfield. As usual, the third quarter was our best. Despite the wet, slippery conditions, we were able to kick clear with four more goals. Declan & Sam Horsburgh kicked another goal each, before Christian snapped his third. Alex T then added another. Paddy was back collecting kicks in the centre, along with Alex H. Alex L was feeding them well with some great ruck work. Despite the handy lead, the last quarter was always going to be tough, with a determined Kew kicking to the scoring end. Kew kicked two more goals, but Fitzroy sealed the game when our leading goal scorer, Christian, strolled into goal for his fourth of the day. Another win. That's two in a row. The great thing is we are improving every week. Jesse was a stand out, playing by far his best game of the year and Christian was again in sparkling form. I'm sure the boys made all their mums happy for the day and all the proud mums can be certain that Fitzroy are finally on the march! Next week's game against the top side, Camberwell, will be a great measuring stick for the team and I am sure we can give a good account of ourselves. Remember, it is a very early start next week, so early to bed (straight after the Swans Bulldogs game) next Saturday night. As for today, well done everybody on a tough, hard-earned win. Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 9.1.55 Kew Rovers W 3.9.27 Goals: Christian Sullivan-McNeill 4, Sam Horsburgh 2, Declan Canavan 2 & Alex Taylor 1.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 5. SUNDAY 7 MAY 2006 FITZROY 2 v. BANYULE B Another Sunday afternoon of bleak weather as the Fitzoy team waded it's way to the Banyule Swamplands in search of our first win of the season, playing our first game for the year in the Blue Division. It was Will who assumed leadership responsibilities as captain this week and he was one of the shining lights in the opening term. Paddy was as busy as ever in the first quarter and he scored the first goal of the match- the first time we have kicked the first goal of a match this season. This looked a promising sign, but Banyule came back and the scores were tied at Quarter Time. After a sluggish start to the second quarter, Fitzroy settled down by leading their opponents to the ball and setting up some fine passages of team play. Goals from Declan, Sam Horsburgh & Jesse saw us lead by 3 goals at Half Time. Solid defending from players such as Magnus, Zeb & Chris Stuart ensured the oppostion stayed scoreless for the quarter. Sam Horsburgh, Sam W & Alex M were proving to be an effective 'on-ball' combination. The third quarter has been our best all year and today was no exception. Kicking to the Moreno Mazzah Cheer Squad end, the Roys kicked 4 goals for the quarter and again kept a clean record in defence. Moreno was getting his hands on the ball and giving his fans plenty to hoot their horns about! Two great goals from Christian, a fine snap from the skipper, Will, and then a sensational long goal from Alex T from the Half Forward Flank saw the scoreboard lean strongly in our favour at Three Quarter Time. Alex L was re-asserting himself in the Ruck, while Alex H had moved to the wing and improved on his already impressive kick tally from the first half. Hamish Ramsay moved to the Half Back line and continued to gain many possessions as well as put continued pressure on his opponents. Kostas went onto the ball and was dominant. I believe this game was the best of the year for both Hamish & Kostas. Jesse & Murray were good contributors on the back line. The final quarter was relatively even, with both sides scoring one goal each. We had a number of chances, including Christian again bobbing up for his third goal, but we failed to make the most of our other opportunities. Sam Hogan was everywhere in the last quarter and Paddy continued his day-long kick spree. In the end, it was a thoroughly deserved victory from a team that has refused to be dispirited after a slow start to the season. We now commence our slow climb up the ladder and with more performances like this, we should make some steady progress. Well done to everybody on a fine win.
Final Scores: Fitzroy 2 9.6.60 Banyule B 2.2.14 Goals: Christian Sullivan-McNeill 3, Patrick McBrearty, Declan Canavan, Sam Horsburgh, Jesse Bowerman, Will Lovett & Alex Taylor.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 4. SUNDAY 30 APRIL 2006 FITZROY v. CAMBERWELL Another tough assignment as we again headed to the Eastern suburbs, this time to play top-placed Camberwell. It was a bleak and wet morning at Lynden Park and today the Roys were led through the puddles onto a rain-sodden ground by our rampaging defender, Magnus Gillberg. (The parents seem to enjoy the trips to the more salubrious suburbs more so than the players- if only for the fact they can sip on percolated coffee instead of the instant variety on sale in the north suburban canteens). In traditional style, we again started slowly and Camberwell soon gained the ascendancy with three first quarter goals. They kicked another two in the second quarter and gave our defenders plenty of work to do. The ball made very few visits to our forward line in the first half and Chris, Jesse & Moreno worked hard to make the most of their limited opportunities at the attacking end. It was a credit to our chasing and hard tackling that we were not further behind at Half Time. Raph, Alex L & Christian were working hard for us on the ball, while Magnus & Alex T were doing everything they could to keep Camberwell's hungry attack quiet. Just like last week, the strike of Midday signalled the time for us lift our game significantly. The weather brightened up and so did our play. Our second half was excellent and we made Camberwell struggle for every single possession they were able to gain. The scoreboard unjustly says we did not score for the match, but this does not reflect the fact that the ball was down our forward line many times in the second half. Sam Horsburgh & Alex M were playing well in the midfield and Patrick was accumulating plenty of possessions all over the ground. Our tackling, chasing and 'second efforts' were again a highlight, with Sam W, Hamish, Raph & Zeb landing some fine tackles on their startled opponents. The merciless Xavier Boys, Alex L & Magnus, were particularly hard at their bruised opponents. Camberwell managed only one goal in each of the last two quarters- a positive result for us against the top side. Patrick was rewarded with the Medal from the opposition coach, but we had several other players who must have also been in contention. We now sit patiently and wait as the League decides whether we stay in the Green Division or we go down to the Blues. Wherever we end up, I am sure the experience of matching it for at least two quarters against the top side in Green will hold us in good stead for our coming games. Final Scores: Fitzroy 0.0.0 Camberwell 7.9.51 Goals: Nil.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 3. SUNDAY 23 APRIL 2006 FITZROY v. PARK ORCHARDS
Another frustrating loss as the Roys try to 'resurrect' their season after Easter, this time at the hands of our country visitors from Park Orchards, who proved to be no bunnies. Sam W earned the honour of captain this week and directed our side to kick with the slight aid of a strong cross wind. As has become our habit this year, we again started poorly and let in two scrappy goals, while we failed to score in the first quarter. Sam W and Will seemed to enjoy an unaccustomed run in the midfield and got plenty of touches early. Our first gamer, Alex Moloney showed some very promising glimpses early in the game. The second quarter was another untidy affair, and we again conceded a goal without scoring ourselves. Alex H from Half Back & Kristian at Half Forward were providing plenty of drive, but we had too many costly turnovers as we got close to goal. The second half was much better and our third quarter was our best for the game. We managed to keep our opponents scoreless, but we did not take advantage of our many runs into the forward line. Jesse, having his first game for the Greens, managed to get loose on a couple of occasions and was looking dangerous, as was Christian. Sam Horsburgh was proving impossible to pass on the Half Back line and Sam Hogan was very busy across the centre. Zeb was coming into the game and Raph was continuing his great form- including a very a fine running mark under pressure. The last quarter was fairly even. We finally cracked it for a well deserved goal, thanks to the opportunist, Christian, but conceded one also. Despite failing to get the chocolates, we did not end up with egg on our faces. Our tackling and chasing is first class and we started holding a few marks. It was great to see players like Lachlan & Kostas sticking to our game plan and doing some tough disciplined work in defence. Alex Moloney was a real 'find' for us- a great debut for the Roys. In the end, we lost because we again started slowly, made a couple of poor choices in tight situations and failed to make the most of our opportunities up forward. At the moment, we take longer to get going than Channel 9 does on Friday Night Football! Anyway, in the end I was thrilled by the efforts of all players and strongly believe that the same effort will see us perform more successfully in the coming weeks. Final Scores: Fitzroy 1.5.11 Park Orchards 4.7.31 Goals: Christian Sullivan McNeill 1.
MATCH REPORT ROUND 2. SUNDAY 9 APRIL 2006 FITZROY v. GLEN IRIS at GLEN IRIS Our second loss, but a much more encouraging effort from our team this week as we travelled to the upmarket surrounds of leafy Glen Iris. (I am still reeling from the comments on Ivanhoe's website last week when we were referred to as Inner City toffs- times have changed since Butch Gale & Chicken Smallhorn ran around on the Brunswick Street Oval and most of the city's toffs were busy hanging up fairy lights in The Boulevard!) Anyway, Alex T was our captain this week and at the toss he saw Glen Iris elect to kick to the scoring (downhill) end in the first quarter. Glen Iris got on top early with three goals, including a couple of lucky ones kicked off the ground, but we managed to come back with a late goal. The second quarter was all Fitzroy as we kept the ball in our forward half for the vast majority of the play. It was frustrating that we could only score one goal, but we kept Glen Iris scoreless for the quarter. We trailed by 3 points at Half Time, but there were many positive signs. Our tackling and chasing were fantastic. Hamish & Zeb were throwing themselves on to the bottom of packs, Sam W showed fantastic aggression- a feature of his style this year. Chris S was playing the best he has since joining Fitzroy. I'm not sure what they ate for breakfast, but the running and stamina from Paddy, Christian S & Kristian N was amazing. Raph was proving to be dangerous by getting loose and creating opportunities up forward and Sam H & Magnus were as reliable as usual in defence. In the second half were did play quite as close to our opponents and we allowed them to stretch their lead. Being one player short, it was inevitable that were going to tire. (Inexplicably, the home team were (wrongly!) adamant that we had to play 20 minute quarters. This did not help- but it was the same for both sides.) A couple of late goals to the opposition meant we ended up losing by 4 goals. Disappointing, but a terrific improvement on last week. There were many positives from the game. We have uncovered a tireless ruckman in Alex L & Declan has stepped up as a key focal point up forward. Four goals from Centre Half Forward was a super effort. Our midfield never stopped running and this is turning into a real strength for our side. Despite the two losses, a lot to look forward to after the Easter break. Enjoy the break- I'm off to Ivanhoe to look for cheap housing! Final Scores: Fitzroy 5.6.36 Glen Iris 9.9.63 Goals: Declan Canavan 4, Raphael Symons 1.
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