Half an hour of pre-match training on the famous old Brunswick Street Oval was a definite positive development and helped rehearse our movement of the ball in and out of the forward line and allowed us to practise moving the ball on quickly from marks and free kicks. Our runner had some good "value-adding" advice for the boys pre-game just as one of the other dads perceptively pointed out the need for some of our left -footers to sell the dummy more often like Luke Hodge (see last week's You-tube idea "HODGETACULAR") so that we can straighten up more quickly, throw opponents off the scent and deliver the ball faster into the forward line.
Greater commitment to the ball was exemplied by Jesse Jones' efforts once the game began but our disposal was still amiss, esp. by foot. The number of time we kicked short to a Tiger in front or "in the hole" was curtailing our forward forays and the Tiges made us pay with a couple of classy goals on the run or from near the goalsquare.
Although our efforts to contest marks still needs to improve it was clear that we were gradually taking more marks around the ground, positioning ourselves better for them and gaining in confidence in this department of the game.
Sam Howard was running freely on the wing and exhibiting some very sure and skilful ball-handling and cunningly swooped on a loose that bounced back from a pack near our forward pocket in the 2nd quarter to record our 1st goal. Our Brunswick brigade were battling hard but unlike Richmond, who were sitting 3rd on the ladder, they and their new team-mates were rarely able to break free near the goals so that we might set up a fast-flowing build-up into the forward-line. Kieran was clearly hitting his straps as was Connor Breheny closer to goal but scoring 6 pointers was a bit like trying to get a herd of buffalo to walk through the eye of a needle at the same time. Still, there was a real sense of team spirit starting to snowball and despite being over a goal down at half-time there was something in the air suggesting we just might pull off a boilover. Certainly, we were getting our fair share of frees but if you get in front and have a RHG, then so you should.
Charlie Phillips was thrown into attack and immediately fired up the team by kicking an inspiring goal on the run from a bit further out than most people imagined. He almost nailed another a few minutes later but hit the post although it could be argued the ump should have let the ball run on to Jacquan who had run in even closer to goal b4 the ump backtracked to give Charlie the free and put him on a cruel angle.
Desperate efforts abounded as the game reached its climax with captain Max Hodder spoiling well in defence and Max O'Reilly marking strongly in the forward line. You'd think we were trying to score a try against the Balmain Tigers with our attempts to goal and Richmond's last-ditch deeds to hold the line as we surged forward but we couldn't buy one in the last qtr. Nevertheless, something is brewing at Brunswick Street and look out when the drought breaks!
Go to the teams flickr
to see more of round 5 photos
Match Report By Coach Richard.
Under 13 Blue 2 ( Round 5 ) 17 May 2009, Fitzroy Vs Richmond