Colts Report - Round 16

THE South Fremantle colts side can go into its mid-season break feeling a little more secure in the fact that its finals aspirations are a little more secure after a dominant display over the ladder-leading Tigers.

The South colts have been under some pressure due to state representatives and senior list injuries testing the depth of our squad. A shock loss to Perth last week had the colts side needing to show some resolve against the competition leaders. Another loss would have seen our place in the top four in some jeopardy.

This sense of occasion lifted the team to show great resolution; many showing courage in the tight and torrid contests around the ball. After being out-played last week in the strength department, the team relished the tough going and thrived when confronted with the same situation against the Tigers.

The undermanned midfield through Daniel Moore, Jacob Dragovich and Jarrod Garlett were able to lift their teammates and give our forwards plenty of opportunities early. Without being dominant in the midfield we were able to negate the effectiveness of the top team's ball carriers which gave our backline some help in winning back the ball and restricting Claremont’s scoring opportunities.

Mitch Banks, Billy Collier and K Craft Bullbars award winner, Jordan Comeagain were able to turn the tables on their opponents and run the ball out of defence and set up many attacking moves further up the ground.

With the midfield holding sway they were able to lock the ball in the forward line for long periods of play. This gave the likes of Tray Bennell, Matty Ah Siu and the mercurial Willie Rioli time to show their skill and talent which they used to good value as they set up a winning lead.

Willie had just hours earlier stepped off the plane after representing Northern Territory in the national championships and was able to show his exciting style and have an instant impact. It was not only his goal scoring or his deft touches that gave the coaches great joy, but his ability to bring many of his new team mates into the game and share the work load.

It was marvellous to see the players respond to last week's loss; as a whole they were able to lift themselves for a game that was vital to our season.

It was particularly special to see Josh Tucker, Jye Depane and Willie Rioli taste instant success in their first games for the colts team. This win showed great character from the playing squad and reassured the colts committee that we are on the right track in developing an extensive list able to confront most obstacles.

Well done to my assistants Robbo, Jas and Pash for their continued guidance; and to all the support crew, thank you for your hard work and dedication so far this season. They, like the players, deserve this week’s break and will go into the final phase of the season with confidence and anticipation.

Arthur Maskos
SFFC Colts Coach