Kingscliff - 5 . 1 . 31
Surfers Paradise - 7 . 3 . 45
With a large number of players and coaches out, a depleted U13 Dolphins outfit made the road trip to Surfers Paradise to take on the Demons.
The first half was very tough for our team, as the Demons out muscled the boys and found space (and goals) to build a large lead on the scoreboard (38 - 6) going into the main break. The Dolphins were having trouble covering the opposition on the spacious ground and the Demons were taking full advantage to dominate the game.
We (along with some great input from the parents assisting in the box) had a chat with the boys at half time to see what their feedback was from out on the ground - and where things were going wrong, and where they felt they could best be used. This led to quite a few position changes, the first of which gave us strength across the half back line - with Mason, Milan and Bohdi forming a wall that would cut off any attacks by the Demons and then quickly rebounding the ball back up the ground.
This was also combined with a very fast midfield unit (consisting of Andre, Joe, Daniel and Joel), who were providing some tough and speedy ball movement into the forward line - and it proved to be a recipe for success. It made for some very exciting footy and an enormous second half comeback where we outscored the opposition 25 to 7. If the game went for another 5 minutes then there is a fair chance we would have taken the lead.
Every player stood up and took the game on and the momentum it created was huge. Milan led the team like a champion, constantly winning the ball under heavy traffic and pushing forwards. Bohdi also worked very hard for all four quarters and was instrumental in getting us back into the game in the second half. Tackling machine Mason also put a lot of pressure on the Demons. Otis epitomised our second half comeback (after a pep talk from Dad) by really stepping up and laying some big bumps and tackles, and also showing great speed and skills. We could easily list every player here as they all had their moments and had a crack when it mattered, which makes us very happy as coaches.
Although we lost the game, it felt like a win, and the onfield effort was reflected by the parents' response as the boys left the field after the final siren, which was great to see. Thanks to everyone for making the trip up the coast. See you all at home (Murwillumbah) this Sunday for another tough match against Tweed Coolangatta Blues!
The highly anticipated rematch did not disappoint ….starting as slow as a teenager waking up for school, caba put 4 quick goals on us to start the game. Thankfully the alarm clock went off at the end of the 1st quarter and it was on !
The next 3 quarters was muddy, head-over-the-ball tough footy. Sam opened up the scoring with an epic long distance running goal. Open the floodgates.
In a man of the match performance Hudson racked up his disposal (and tackle) count with a dominant mid field performance. His partner in crime Harley, was (as always) unstoppable in clearances using his massive boot to gain more territory than Julius Caesar.
Lachy carved up in the front zone, with several inside 50s and goals for his other forwards who were recipients of his deep kicks into the goal square.
Likewise Angel and Ryder lead by example with first to the ball pick ups and never give up tackles, such amazing second and third efforts. As much heart and soul as a bluey episode.
What a great team performance. Now I didn’t get exact scores but there was probably a point or two either way in it by the end. This was classic match, and just like this years Anzac Day game, may have even ended in a draw. We are still waiting for confirmation from the official scorers.
Bring on next week! Can’t wait
