ROUND 9 V LEARMONTH
FOOTBALL
Despite the heavy rain for the last few weeks the Learmonth oval held up reasonably well and improved as the day progressed. The Under 12s had a tight low scoring game prevailing by two points in the end. Skipton 1.4-10 def Learmonth 1.2-8. Awards to Robbie Scott, Cooper Chaill and Tiger Williams.
The Under 15s had a tougher game against a quality opponent, but to their credit followed instructions and kept trying all game. Skipton defeated by Learmonth 3.0-18 to 11.7-73. Awards to Lach Gardner, Cam Gardner, Xaiver Connell and Bailey Meek.
Our reserves had a slower start than the coaches would have preferred. As the day progressed they did stamp their authority on the game, but the 16th placed Learmonth, to their credit, pressured our boys to the end. This shows the evenness of the competition and illustrates that no side can be taken lightly. In the end Skipton were victorious, 11.15-81 to Learmonth 7.7-49. Best were Lachie Wilkie, Belly, Bos, B.Uwland, Beddgie and Gawne.
This victory just over the half way mark puts Skipton equal top of the ladder, but third on percentage. There will be many tough tests to come but our guys have the future of the season and their fate in their own hands. If they work on fitness and a common goal who knows what the year holds.
The Senior Emus burst out of the blocks kicking the fist two goals in 5 minutes and looked to be in control early. Learmonth however were having none of that at fought back hard, having plenty of possession, closing the quarter in front by five points. It was clear from then on that this was going to be a tough, congested game, in which scoring would be difficult. Skipton were able to close the margin to one point by half time, setting up for a tense finish. Gradually Skipton were able to control more of the ball, and while scoring was still difficult, creep away from Learmonth to record a 12 point win. Skipton 8.12-60 to Learmonth 7.6-48.
This win puts Skipton 5th on the ladder, on the same points as third, but with a lesser percentage. There is still a long way to go with this season though, but if we can get all sides working hard, pushing for a finals spot, it could be very exciting for our club after a few tough years.
NETBALL
Well again our under 13 a and b girls held the emuettes up with two close fantastic wins against a very tough Learmonth opposition.
The 13bs didnt have it all their own way on Saturday but worked hard to keep their winning ways with a great 11 goals to 8 win. Their skills are continuing to develop and they appear to be enjoying the year immensely. The awards went to Ruby Gardiner for leading by example with strong passages of play. Grace Barr for tight defence with many intercepts & Mia Larkins for her versatility and excellent team spirit.
Our sixth placed 13a girls were always going to be up for a tough challenge as they took on 3rd place Learmonth. The first half was a close affair with our girls working hard to take a 2 goal lead at half time. The second half was a much better half with a couple of changes working well. The final score was a fantastic 23 to 14 which moves us up above them on ladder into 5th spot. Great job girls, well deserved win. Awards went to Cate Connell who ran all day and took great intercepts, Holly Draffin for good accurate shooting and Lauren Bodman for fantastic defence and pressure in gk all day.
The under 15s and 17s came up against it in both grades and were a little short in both grades due to sickness and unavailability. This gave a couple of girls the chance to step up a level and mix up positions for a bit of a change. The girls in both sides continued with their efforts but were soundly beaten by quality opposition
Awards for the under 15s went to Gemma Richardson, Sophie cook and Tess Bingham in the 7 to 35 loss
The under 17s went down 8 to 58 and awards to Vivian Johnson knight and Abby Tiley.
Senior coaches reports:
I can't say how proud I am of the C Grade girls. They started strong ahead by one at quarter time which gave the girls confidence for the second quarter. Unfortunately our GK Ruby Bingham who was playing a strong role in defence went down with a rolled ankle. The girls adapted exceptionally well with the changes and made the most of the rest game putting in a strong fight only going down by 7 at the end. 24 to 31. It was a tough gig picking best on this week with every single player on court playing at full potential but this week I congratulate Katie Fay for really taking hold of the defence end and doing everything I asked of her. Narelle Larkins who put her body on line again and again and tried with all her might to get two hands on the rebound and Elise showing strong drives and giving great options through the mid court all game in WD and C.
B Grade came out strong and played good steady netball against a very strong Learmonth team. The Learmonth side crept away in all quarters but the girls impressed the crowd with their never give up attitude. Great work under the ring by the defenders saw the ball bouncing in and out of defence. But the Learmonth shooters were on fire. Final score 18 to 57 A great game in the ring by Maddie Neddleton saw her take out the best on court. Second best today with her consistent centre court effort was Jaymee Crackk. Keep up the efforts ladies.
A grade played an outstanding game against the unbeaten top side Learmonth. They were competitive from the first whistle right through until the end. With strong defence throughout the court and continual encouraging as a team they showed Learmonth that they were all prepared to give it their all. They took onboard all feedback and they are improving every week. Best on court Courtney Guy was strong in the centre with some amazing set ups for the goalies and created some great space with strong drives. Second best was Fiona Collins her drives out for the centre, on court direction and a captain everyone looks up to the future is bright for this side. Score Learmonth 70 defeated Skipton 27.