It was great to have the U19s kicking-off the triple-header on ANZAC Day at Boss James Reserve on Saturday – the only opportunity for 2015. It was a big game for the boys. Playing a previously undefeated team in a higher grade, it was going to be a test. Hampton Rovers hosted Old Carey and both were the only undefeated teams in Section 3 but the pre-game view appeared to be that the Carey boys were favourites.
The game started at a frantic pace and the Rovers were under pressure. At one stage in the first quarter we were down by 3 goals and seemed incapable of getting the ball past the centre. We steadied late in the quarter and with goals to Cam Jones, Ryan Fogarty and Jack Zaina we had gathered in the opposition.
Matty Oswald was again repelling the opposition’s attacks and Lachy Cairns and Darcy Merlo were looking dangerous up forward. The second quarter was an equal affair with both sides testing, but neither able to gain an ascendancy. Notwithstanding that, Carey had extended the lead to 10 points.
It was after half time where Hampton excelled. Carey were simply shut out of the game – they only had 3 scoring shots in very calm conditions while the Rovers banged on 7.5 to run out very comfortable winners. The coaching staff urged the players at half time to continue being positive and to concentrate a little more on wet weather footy, cut out that extra handball and move the ball quicker and longer, which they did. The tackling by the Rovers was again fierce and they cut out the opposition’s space and time.
Cam Jones, as usual, pulled down a number of strong marks and ended with 3 goals for the day. Jack Stewart was a rock in defence and had the measure of the Carey forwards. Lachy Cairns was relishing the return to the Unders after playing the first two rounds in the Seniors and used his pace, under a little bit less pressure to advantage.
Darcy Merlo, with the flowing locks, was dangerous all day up forward and captain Ryan Fogarty, last week devoid of the locks and this week sans beard, is clearly enjoying the rough and tumble of the centre square. The coach also mentioned the fine performances by Toby Sullivan and Cam Cullis.
Great to see young Tom Yorgey adapt so quickly to the pace in his first game in the Under 19s.
Next week we take on old rivals Ormond at the Boss commencing at 2pm.
