CAULFIELD GRAMMARIANS 9.14. 68 def ORMOND 7.8. 50
Goal Kickers: C. Johnston 4, B. Price 2, C. Sinclair, F. McArdle, T. Sundberg Best Players: C. Johnston, A. Simmons, D. Tobias, T. Baker, D. Allanson, L. Spinks
The team got off to a slow start, kicking against the wind in the opening term against Ormond. The strength of the wind certainly played a key role at the beginning of the match, and skills probably reflected a lack of care in these conditions early in the game by us but our ferocity and toughness at the ball was apparent throughout this stage.
Some sloppy skills and poor decision-making, however, meant we only managed three behinds in the first quarter. But after starting 21 points behind at quarter time, Caulfield lifted and were able to fight back. This came about due to some hard tackling and clever usage with the ball in the centre of the ground by the Caulfield midfield, definitely some exciting talent on display. In the forward line goals were not easy to come by – both teams kicking excessive amounts of behinds and the weather still favourable to the Glenhuntly Rd scoring end – this meant a shift in momentum was pivotal and necessary to winning the game. Somewhat clever tactics by the opposition meant that Caulfield had to be switched on all day but this did not deter Caulfield after the break as their intensity rose a notch.
The third quarter's challenge was to defend and keep Ormond’s scoring shots to a minimum low, our defence stood strong and were superb. We recognised what was required and fought hard to win or make a contest in one-on-one battles around the ground. Caulfield kicked two goals in the third quarter, to Ormond’s one, which gave us the opportunity of heading into the final quarter with the lead, but the wind had cleared a bit and played minimal effect for both ends. We were able to kick the goals we needed, and four coming from the outstanding display by Clay Johnston in the midfield. Clay was joined alongside Andrew Simmons, Alex Ford, Francis McArdle and Ben Price who all provided good run without giving up the easy footy, while Dave Allanson won in the ruck and Dylan Tobias, Luke Spinks and Tim Baker rose in the defensive half. A couple of goals to Ben Price including a long-bomb from outside 50m stamped the victory. A three-goal win over Ormond in the end was a terrific performance by all the boys. The win is highly ranked in our season’s successes. Next week we face Old Brighton in a crunch-game with the Parents' Luncheon proceeding the game at 2pm on Glenhuntly Oval.
Thanks to all who generously gave their time and helped out on the weekend.
By Justin Kremmer
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