You could not fault the Blighty Redeyes’ effort against Katunga on Saturday.
They fought extremely hard for four quarters, which is all we can ask for.
The game seemed as though it was there for the taking, but unfortunately, we couldn’t quite get there.
Kyel Bain was clean and hard in defence and Jordan Priestley was super with five goals.
Aaron Leitchfield provided a good target up in forward and Sam Singleton was tough in the midfield.
The boys feel like a win is coming, we just need to keep working hard.
Final score: Blighty 7.3 (45) def by Katunga 11.9 (75).
Reserves
It was a tremendous effort from the team today, with the boys taking to the field with heads held high and a clear determination to compete.
We were proud to welcome back some familiar faces to the league - Brandon Cooper, Jake Parsons, and Brock Hunter.
Their return added strength and experience to the side.
The game got off to a strong start, with Cooper kicking the first goal and putting us on the scoreboard early.
It was a momentum building moment that set the tone for the contest ahead.
Our best players on the day were Josh Wawrzycki, Zach Everingham, and Jarrod Hisslop, who each demonstrated great skill and commitment.
The Captain’s Award was deservedly presented to Rhys Hall for his leadership and outstanding performance.
A special mention goes to the entire reserves team for their grit and resilience throughout the match, keeping the scoreline tight and giving their all until the final siren.
Credit to Alex O’Brien (2), Jesse Collins and Cooper for finding the goals when it mattered most, and showing relentless spirit.
Overall, it was a game that reflected the team’s hard work and passion.
We look forward to building on this effort in the weeks to come.
Final score: Blighty 4.2 (26) def by Katunga 12.12 (84).
Fourths
What a game! The team showed grit, determination, and a whole lot of heart today.
A big thanks to Nathan Kelly for stepping up and coaching the team.
Best on Ground went to Lily Petersen. As soon as she hit the field, the whole game shifted. Her impact was immediate and game-changing.
Second best on went to Jack Brown who was given a job, and delivered, shutting down his opponent and turning the pressure back on them.
Liam Gordon was also awarded as he never gave up. His persistence and determination kept the team lifted throughout the match.
Hudson Kelly also did amazing work. today. His work rate was phenomenal and didn’t go unnoticed.
A generous $20 was donated and split into $5 awards to recognise standout efforts.
Seth Fuess never gave up and had some ripper plays, ending up with the ball three or four times in a row when it looked like no-one else was around.
Deagan Morgan put a few through as points, and kept the scoreboard ticking.
Zane Sibraa didn’t give up and smartly put the ball on the boot, sending it forward in the right direction when it counted.
Benny Macdonald spoke up, gave every position a crack across four quarters, and gave 100 per cent, no matter where he was put.
The Kelly Award went to Adrew Frost, who had another ripper game and is a consistent performer!
Score: Blighty 0.1 (1) def by Katunga 12.9 (81).
Fifths
The skills of each player this season has lifted, as well as the confidence, which is great but makes picking six award winners hard.
Ari Tremble played his best game yet. His skills and confidence have lifted a lot.
He pushes to be a leader and role model for newcomers, which is amazing.
Lucas Hovenden had confidence in himself to take on anyone, and get right in and physical. This has lifted more than you can imagine in the short season we’ve had so far.
Olivia Cairns also showed confidence, and the coaches can’t get past the tackling defensive pressure she has.
Noah Haigh is gaining more confidence and getting involved, and has picked up a lof of skill in his first year of footy.
Felix McKenzie is one to do everything. He can get the ball and whether it’s running, tackling or protecting, he does the lot.
Dustin Tresize has really lifted since the start. His skills are improving, as is his confidence in taking on any role possible. He takes on all the feedback he can get.
Final score: Not scored.