Thanks to our peripatetic author and goal umpire extraordinaire, Vin Maskell, for this match report. Thanks also to Fab and Julie, Nicole, Sheryl, and Rob and Shazza, for match duties, and the Dynamic Duo, Roger and Andrew, whose unblemished coaching record finally came to an end.
“A narrow loss, a comfortable victory and the return of a state representative ruckman were the major outcomes of our Round 6 away games against the Ballarat Bulldogs at White Flat Oval. (As opposed to Flat White Oval.) There was however, a coffee cart on site.
The reserves match was neck and neck with never more than a few points between the teams. The Seagulls’ steadfast back-line held firm in the drizzly, slightly slippery conditions and was only breached a few times in the first three quarters. The Bulldogs managed their third goal of the game halfway through the final quarter and then held on to win by five points, 3.4 (22) to 2.5 (17).
The winter sun shone brightly for the senior game and the Seagulls scored constantly, though inaccurately in the first and second quarters. Indeed, the 40-point mercy rule was in effect from early in the second quarter, meaning the Seagulls could move players into different positions. 13.16 (94) to 4.5 (29)
It was terrific to welcome back ruckman/forward Yaser, who has shown great patience in recovering from an ankle injury he sustained last season. A SHOUT OUT to Richard, Paul and Phoebe from our Club 500 sponsors, All For One Wellness Centre in Yarraville. They have been managing Yaser’s ankle injury – free of charge – for the past 9 months, and cleared him to return to playing.
A big thank you to the Ballarat Bulldogs for hosting the day. We look forward to hosting the Bulldogs at the Fearon in Round 10 and to defending the Terry Firth Trophy, named in memory of Ballarat Knights FIDA coaching legend, Terry Firth.
Seagulls and Bulldogs alike wore black arm bands to remember Grampians Giants and Vic Country Coach, Russell Holmes. “Go Long With The Wind.”
A big thank you also to Altona and Laverton Bendigo Bank for sponsorship of the team bus.
This Wednesday at training, we will be joined by Jack Rolfe, founder of The Coaching Lab. Jack has produced the AFL MatchPlay Cards, which we will be using for our Come and Try days in the future. We might also have a look at some activities for some extra variety on Wednesday nights.
This Friday, 4 July, the bus heads to Fountain Gate for a Seniors (A Grade) night game, starting at 7pm. The bus will depart Footscray Station at 5pm.
The Reserves (C Grade) will play St Albans at St Albans on Sunday morning, 6 July.”