St. Mary’s v. Fitzroy – Round 15

If the YJFL had a Rivalry round like the AFL, then Fitzroy would play St Marys.  The two biggest clubs in the competition have built up a healthy “respect” for each other across the board.  The U14s are no different but sadly the final game of the home and away season played on Whatmough Park last Sunday would not be one of the classics.

St Marys were facing their final game of the year having missed out on finals football.  Fitzroy were sitting 2^nd and could not be displaced.  So, in a game that meant nothing in the context of the year, what would happen?  Well, in a nutshell, one team would find it in themselves to play for the jumper and one team could not.  Unfortunately, that team was St Marys.

From the first bounce, St Marys were hard and uncompromising, first to the ball and tough.  Once again, we were intimidated and second to the contest. We were second to the ball, we were loose, we were hesitant.  The stats reflected this.  We had more tackles then any other game!  We didn’t have the ball, so we tackled the player who did!

So, with the biting wind of Greensborough, the boys getting a football lesson on the park, the soup running out by half time and the coffee being well below the standard of Ramsden St, all in all, it was a pretty bleak Sunday.

St. Mary’s 16.11-107  def.  Fitzroy 6.8-44

There are many positives though!  David’s 150m goal in the 2^nd quarter (sure, I exaggerate!).  The never give up attitude of the boys, the mateship amongst the team and the fact that last time we played so poorly (Greythorn Round 7 – 53 pt loss) we came out the next week and beat Macleod means that all this will be turned around before next week.

Finals footy is here.  A whole new season begins!

GO ROYS!!!

Fitzroy v. Surrey Park – Round 14

 

Camberwell v. Fitzroy – Round 13

It was a great day for footy as the boys prepared themselves for a tough contest, against a team they had not beaten in their previous three meetings. Bruce reminded the players of their roles and responsibilities in the rooms before the game, he also asked the boys to aim for a target of 30 one per-centers each quarter.

The first quarter was an even contest early with both sides playing attacking football but inaccurate in their shots for goal.  David was leading the way for Fitzroy with some strong play out of the centre, leading to a contest in the goal square and a crumbing goal to Orien. Camberwell enjoyed a purple patch attacking continuously and scoring 2 goals five behinds heading into the quarter time break.

Bruce told the boys there needed to be more talk at the centre bounces and ruck contests, and to kick long with the wind. The second quarter was another arm wrestle with goals to Otto, Jules and Orien, whilst Camberwell scored two goals into the wind.  Camberwell were playing hard, fast running, team football, but the Fitzroy defence was doing a terrific job restricting their scoring.

At half time the margin was just three points but there were many areas of the game where we needed to improve.  Bruce emphasized the need to be harder and committed to the contest and asked Jules to move into the midfield half way through the 3^rd quarter to change with Luke or Matthew.

The contest was again tight in the third quarter, though the game was scrappy at times as both sides made skill errors under pressure. David and Jules scored early goals for the ‘Roys, but Camberwell bounced back scoring two goals later in the term. Bruce told the team to kick long at every opportunity in the last quarter, and asked for a greater effort from our midfielders.

In the last quarter Jules kicked an early goal as a result of some excellent work out of the centre by David. Then a free kick to Jules at half forward led to a mark and goal to Otto.  However Camberwell once again gained the upper hand and scored two unanswered goals.  Some strong play out of half back and a pass to David resulted in a running goal to Luke.  Camberwell attacked once again and scored a point, putting them into the lead by exactly that margin.

With time fast running out, the tension around the ground was palpable, as nervous spectators chewed through centimetres of fingernail.  Both sides were desperately throwing themselves into each contest, as Fitzroy forced the ball into our forward half, where Otto gained front position and marked strongly a fair way out from goal.  Maintaining his concentration and composure he prepared himself for the kick, strode in and kicked the ball loooong and gun barrel straight, through for a goal… Less than a minute later the siren sounded, and the boys celebrated a terrific win.

Final score: Fitzroy 10. 10. 70 d. Camberwell  9. 11. 65

Fitzroy v. Balwyn – Round 12

Despite a valiant effort by Balwyn to match the skills of our boys, the most challenging opponent for the day was the lip numbing, bone chilling, ferocious wind that blew citywards for most of the match. This match reporter had only a brown paper sandwich bag to document this game on, so this report will be pithy!

Bruce’s message to the boys in the rooms at the start of the game was to ‘improve the ‘inside 50s’ up to 30% conversion to goals, and to stat up 25 x 1%ers for each of the quarters. The win of the toss suggested this was very achievable, given they were kicking with the wind. Five goals kicked by Jules, Otto (2), Orien and Sam, plus a heady eight points represented the challenging conditions, even with the wind at their backs. With Balwyn yet to score, this first term effort of 16 ‘inside 50s’ for 5 goals, and 24 -1%ers needed to be improved on! Bruce’s message to the boys was that they would be tested against the wind, to look for lots of short options, and run, run, run.

The boys responded and worked hard and fast against the wind. Great kicking, fantastic tackling, consistent pressure, with Bruce praising their setting up of the zone. They “blocked, chased and smothered” and Bruce praised their “great effort against the wind”. 26 x 1%ers and 11 inside 50s contributed to a whopping half time score of 7.13 (55) to Balwyn’s 0.2 points. Orien kicked both goals, Luke was everywhere the ball went, tackling and tackling and tackling, Chris and Matty supported each other with persistent, determined and gritty football, Evan and George had a great quarter, Harry S had a great game and was involved in many a set up for the forward line, Otto took some of his trademark spekkies, David and Sam were integral to the ball remaining in Fitzroy’s control, Levi, Dom, Harry H , Brendon, Liam, Jack, Liam and Aiden  took charge of the ball when Balwyn got it to their half of the ground, and Julian, Minh, Jade put a fantastic effort in.

The third quarter score of 12.17 (89), keeping Balwyn scoreless, with a work rate that improved on their first half with 34 x 1%ers and 10 ‘inside 50s’ for 5 goals, better clearances, tackling and overall a “great work ethic”, Bruce and the boys seemed pleased with how the day was going! The final term was icing on the cake, extremely disappointing for Balwyn, a boon to our percentage and as it turned out, yielded a score that took us a step up to second on the ladder. The boys continued to work hard for each other, shepherded brilliantly and thoughtfully. The forward line combination of Jules, Orien and Otto kept up the pressure when needed, David continued to win the clearances, the onballers worked “superbly” and the defenders were tight and disciplined. Goals for the game were kicked by Otto (5), Jules, Orien (5), Sam, Luke (2), David (2) with the final score of 17.19 (121) to 2.3 (15) (someone kicked the first goal in the third quarter-not sure who?). 

The next three games will be against tougher opponents, but if the boys keep up the teamwork and work ethic delivered in this round, they’ll be well grounded for their journey into the finals! Go Roy Boys.

Fitzroy v. Bundoora – Round 11

It was a cold, blustery day at ‘Ramma’, but the game was a real heart-warmer. The satisfying 73 point win to the boys was well deserved, the result of great teamwork and a gutsy effort from all of the team! It is hard to single any one player out, as everyone played hard at the ball, tackled both systematically and ferociously, backed themselves to move the ball quickly down the ground. All of this happened with Liam doing a fantastic job of gathering stats on the number of ‘inside 50s’ and 1%ers (hard ball gets/contested possessions for those who wonder what this interesting stat is!), and kicking against the wind in the first term. The goal kickers were Harry S, Otto and David, finishing off the hard work of each player to get the ball forward. At the end of the first quarter, Bruce informed the boys that they had 9 ‘inside 50s’ for the 3.1 goals and 29 ‘1 %ers’, encouraged them to increase the stats by talking to each other more and continue the attack on the ball. First quarter score was 3.1 (19) to Bundoora’s 0.1 (1).

Bundoora were particularly skilful markers, and the slower work rate of the boys throughout the second quarter allowed this opposition side to capitalise on their size and accuracy. The half time score of 7.6 to 3.3 was reflected by the stats. 14 inside 50s for 4 goals (which totalled 23 Inside 50s for just 7 goals-not good enough, says Bruce)) and the 1 %ers had reduced to 25. Bruce asked for the boys to lift, set the benchmark of 40 1%ers and they did!!!

The third quarter was a screamer! Jules snapped a beauty over his left shoulder and then went on to score six goals for the game; Otto marked some spekkys and converted to goals; the back line were spectacular with Harry H in the right spot whenever he was needed, Ben, Brendon, David, Luke, Chris and Matty working tirelessly to keep the ball in Fitzroy hands; Sam, Aiden, Minh, George, Julian, Jack, Liam and Levi responded to everything Bundoora tried in order to get some scores on the board,; Harry S had his best game for the season…. have I mentioned everyone?? They were all fantastic. 13.9 (95) to 5.4 (34) was backed up by the 10 ‘inside 50s’ for 7 goals. Bruce was pleased. And it was against the wind!!

The boys continued to maintain their work rate in the final term. The final score was 17.13 (115) to 6.6 (42). The song was sung gustily and the boys were encouraged to set their sights on improving those Inside 50s and 1%ers and to march confidently towards the finals!!

Park Orchards v. Fitzroy – Round 10

The weather turned cold mid-afternoon on Sunday as the boys prepared for the match against Park Orchards.  Fitzroy took to the field with the bare minimum number of players required to field a team, the interchange steward was restricted to light duties with Park Orchards having only one player on the bench.

In the first quarter Fitzroy were kicking in to a steady breeze, Park Orchards started well kicking two early goals, but it wasn’t long before Fitzroy started to move and share the ball well, and a good passage of play starting in the backline resulted in a goal to Luke.  Some good defensive pressure from our forwards resulted in a turnover, mark and goal to Sam, we continued to attack with Jade taking a strong mark in the forward line but he was unable to convert. Bruce was pleased with the first quarter effort but encouraged the midfield to work harder.

The wind dropped as the second quarter got underway but the Park Orchards team lifted their intensity with an early goal.  In defence, Ayden, Evan, Levi, Brendan, Harry, and Minh continued to repel attacks and provide rebound opportunities which resulted in a goal to Orien. However Park Orchards weren’t to be denied and kicked another two unanswered goals going into the half time break. Bruce’s message to the team at half time was clear, “We need to work harder to get the ball out of the centre, and our forwards need to maintain pressure on Park Orchards backs to ensure the ball stays in our forward line”

The third quarter started well as David and Sam started to take control in the ruck, our rovers and midfield players were also gaining the upper hand over their opponents, creating opportunities for the forwards. A good passage of play starting from the backline involving Matt, Jack, Luke and Jules resulted in a goal to Orien. This was followed by successive goals to David and Jules, then an excellent tackle by Orien at full forward on his opponent, resulted in a free kick and another goal was scored. Park Orchards went forward and scored a goal, but Fitzroy replied quickly as a result of a fine pack mark and goal by Orien. Near the end of the quarter Liam went in hard at a contest putting his body on the line, unfortunately he suffered a serious injury to his collar-bone and took no further part in the game.  At the last break Bruce praised the efforts of the whole team and the courage of Liam.

In the last quarter both teams were down to seventeen players. Fitzroy started well, with Jack, who was playing a terrific game, passing the ball to Otto who goaled, A great smother by Brendan at half back turned the ball over, leading to another goal kicked by Orien. A free kick awarded to Jules for rough play after this goal was kicked, resulted in another Fitzroy goal. Two goals to Park Orchards were followed by three goals kicked in succession by Orien, the culmination of good play by team mates up field including Brendan, Otto, Jules, and Jack. Park Orchards played the game out scoring two more goals before the final siren sounded, however Fitzroy ran out convincing winners on the day.

Final score: Fitzroy 15.8 98 d. Park Orchards 9.9 63

Bruce congratulated the team on their past three victories, and reflected on the benefits the team had reaped from playing positive, pressure football against opposition teams.

Banyule v. Fitzroy – Round 9

There was some tension in the air at the beginning of this match.  The boys clearly wanted to play well, integrate their training drills into the game, play for each other and win well. Banyule seemed to be a bigger side, and were as hungry as our boys for a win. A win today meant the chance to be placed in the final four was greater, and a loss threatened to put their final chances out of reach. Bruce asked the boys to support each other, swap positions whenever they tired, give themselves room to run with the ball, and push the ball forward quickly whenever they have the chance. The boys didn’t let him or each other down. They kept intense pressure on the ball, and fought bravely in the contests both on the ground and in the air. Ben (two goals), Luke and Otto scored goals to bring Fitzroy’s first quarter score of 27 (4.3) to the front of Banyule’s 24 (4.0) score. Otto took some spectacular marks, Harry H, Evan, Aiden and Brendon worked tirelessly in defense, with Sam, Chris, Liam and Matthew fielding the ball to David, Orien, Luke and Jules. Ben and Otto found space regularly and converted to a score.

The second quarter was a great quarter to watch. The boys seemed to be enjoying working together and the hard training was paying off. The back line kept Banyule scoreless for the quarter and Bruce said at half time that everyone made a committed effort. His only request at half-time other than encouraging the boys to stay focused and committed to the ball, was to do less handballing. Everyone played well and received praise from the coach for the effort they were putting in. The score at the break was Fitzroy 6.6 (42) to Banyule’s 4.0 (24).

The third quarter saw some spectacular marking by Otto, accurate kicking from everyone with Bruce commenting on Luke, Jules, Sam and Aiden’s effort. Ben, Luke and Orien scored goals but Banyule fought back and the boys had to maintain their work rate to keep in front with the score of 9.7 (61) to Banyule’s hard fought-for 6.2 (38).

Neither side was prepared to slacken off and the final quarter saw some great, tough football. Both sides kept the pressure on the ball and defended brilliantly, with the ball moving quickly from one end of the oval to the other. At one point, Banyule came within a couple of goals, and it seemed as though it could be anyone’s game. The boys kept the PRESSURE, PRESSURE, PRESSURE and reaped the rewards. David had a brilliant quarter, Ben  David, Luke and Otto scored goals again with the support of the whole team that allowed the ball to get to them and create the space to put the ball through the posts!

The final score of 13.11 (89) Fitzroy to 10.5 (65) reflected the toughness of the game and the fight that Banyule took up to them. Bruce’s words to the boys after the game; ‘whether manning up, tackling, smothering, chasing, zoning, manning the mark, spoiling or shepherding, doing all these hard little things all the time will help achieve the results you are after’ echoed the work the boys put in. It was a great game to watch. Well done Roy Boys.

Fitzroy v. McLeod – Round 8

There was no question about the importance of this game for the U14 Browns.  Our last game, 2 weeks ago, against Greythorn had been a shocker.  Greythorn had outplayed us all over the park.  A week off the field for the long weekend was not reflected on the training track.  Training was hard and tough in cold, unwelcoming conditions but all the boys accounted themselves well so it was with confidence that we met at Ramsden St for a late game against 2^nd placed Macleod.

The game was a milestone match for 4 of our boys.  Congratulations to Harry H, Paul, George and Liam K on playing 50 games.  It is a great achievement and shows your commitment to the sport and the club. Here’s to another 50!!

The boys ran out at almost full strength welcoming back those returning from injury and other commitments.  With the bench full, the coaches (and interchange steward) were in for a busy day.

The commitment of the team was evident from the first bounce.  Fitzroy stamped their authority early and led by 6 goals at quarter time.  It was more of the same in the 2^nd quarter and we stretched our lead to 8 goals at half time.

Macleod are a good team though and you can never keep a good team down for 4 quarters.  They rallied and gave us a contest in the second half.  Our boys were up to it, meeting most challenges head on.  Final scores were: Fitzroy 13 13  (91) defeated Macleod 10 7 (67).

It is just past the halfway point of  the season and, despite our win, we have dropped out of the 4 with 5 wins and 3 losses, equal to Surrey Park but with a lesser percentage.  It is an even competition and every game is vital.  There will be no easy games for the rest of the year and then Finals start!  Every week come ready to do your best for the team.  Great goals are fantastic, spectacular and you need them to win but it takes the team to get the ball there in the first place. 

Every week you need to come ready to lay the tackle that wins the free.  Shepherd the teammate in the better position to move the ball forward.  Hold the mark that secures the team possession.  Handball out to a running player.  Frustrate the opposition player enough to put him off his game.  Let them know that no Fitzroy player will take a step backwards.  They call them the 1 percenters but, in truth, they are far more important then that.  The coaches stress every week about leaving too much of the work to too few players.  We proved on Sunday that if EVERY player plays at his best, we can beat anyone.

This week it is Banyule away.  See you all there.

Greythorn v. Fitzroy – Round 7

 

 

Fitzroy v. St.Mary’s – Round 6

It was the re-match we had to have and with ‘Ramo’ in fine form and condition with barely a breeze to speak of the gods appeared to be in our corner already.

Bruce did his customary pre match address and the message as always was clear and specific “the focus is on interception this week”, look for your next option or contest and “get on your bike – fast”. Every player was intent on his words and individuals when singled out with a job to do looked him in the eye and nodded in acknowledgement, 19 fourteen year old boys had come to the game focused as asked and the coach noticed.

The boys came out and dominated the first quarter with all the action at the goal end, the ball barely made it past the centre square much to Evans displeasure I’m sure, he took his job seriously though and there was no light between him and his opposition regardless of where the ball was. Nic had the first opportunity at goal and managed a point, shortly followed by Otto who pulled to the right and managed another point. It was David who kicked the first goal for the scoreboard and David who was taking his rucking to a new level  against a very worthy opponent. Matthew showed great courage time and again scrummaging around on the ground desperately trying to get the ball out, often with the bigger ruck men falling all around him. Chris was displaying his usual bursts of incredible speed and picked up a great straggler converting as he went. LL (Little Liam – my abbreviation and no offense intended)) had received praise in the pre match address for his crumbing efforts the week before and Bruce had complete confidence in him for  today suggesting he stick near Otto and just wait for them to fall at his feet, he did wait but when there was nothing he went looking for the next option and his 2nd efforts paid off nearly every time. I was remiss in not taking down the scores at each 1/4 but we where clearly in front as the siren went.

Now I’m not one to go out at the break, mainly because whenever I think Bruce will be pleased with a quarter and patting them on the back I am wrong and he is looking for the 1% and whether the job he has asked to be done is being done – so I sent Charlotte (Sams mum) to listen in and she came back with the coaches message ringing in her ears “take ownership of that ball – take responsibility and dont just pass it off to a team mate for him to get slammed”! See what I mean!

St Mary’s clearly had a message ringing in their ears also and the 2nd quarter they came out chasing down every ball in numbers every time, I had a moment of heart stopping fear thinking perhaps this is just the goal kicking end and now they will run all over us and dominate the 1/4 – this was short lived though with Sam, Evan (clearly happy to finally get a touch), Dom, and Levi sending everything back our way time and time again. Liam, Luke and Orien where outstanding and fearless in their commitment to the ball. St Mary’s did manage to get something on the score board but the highlight of this term had to be Jade achieving his own personal goal of kicking a goal this season, it was only 2 weeks ago that Bruce wrote all their goals down after a training session and I can remember him saying to Jade on the night ‘your team mates will back you up and help you achieve this goal’ and they did. Again we went into the break in the lead but the points on the board where    starting to out number the goals and we where by no means home and hosed.

The half time message was “go for the long option”, make them play our game I think was the gist of it – things where starting to get congested and momentum being lost. Nic, Luke and Orien  where having great games, playing good disciplined footy with outstanding work rate. Harry H was encouraged to look for the 1% and remember he is strong enough to hip and shoulder when need be, Chris was reminded “they cant catch you” back yourself, go for a run, bounce the ball -  they will not catch you. Finally,  the zone was working and the pressure was starting to show on the opposition -

you have another 1/2 to go ‘ATTACK ATTACK ATTACK’

The 3rd quarter went off with a bang, Ayden managed a great stoppage and then booted it down to Luke who almost reached the posts but not quite, Jack was there and managed to get boot to ball and knock it through for a point. Otto by this stage had the crowd gasping with his presenting to the ball either on the ground in front or in the air over the top, for all this effort though he was not getting much reward  with turn-overs becoming flavor of the 1/4 but finally the long options hit home and he managed at least 2 goals for the quarter and no surprise to learn that his personal goal is to take a hanger this season. David took quite a fall in the ruck on the cricket pitch part too I think, he looked to be favoring his hand for a minute but shook it out a couple of times and rubbed his thigh before heading straight back into the thick of it. A very hard and fast play through the centre saw Dom shooting for goal only to have it drift and hit the post. The siren went and the reality was they only needed 2 goals to be at our back door.

Now, I did go out at this break – like a moth to a flame I guess. Interestingly the opposition rucks Dad who had been standing near me the whole game followed me out and stood next to me at the edge of the circle, I couldn’t help but comment ”I didn’t realise we had someone over listening in on your tactics” to which he responded “Oh I just like hearing how different blokes coach – styles of coaching you know!”. He stayed, up until Bruce told Otto he would ruck the last 1/4 and give David a break, then he was off to give the good news that the ‘big guy’ wasn’t  a problem anymore no doubt. Bruce’s message was short “1/4 of defense left and everyone has to contribute” simple as that.

The light was fading fast as the final 1/4 began, it is dark these days by 5.30 so 4.30 on an overcast day was pretty dim but the boys all lifted a notch and there is nothing quite like the scent of a win to bring out the best, all the boys played a fantastic last quarter but Georges goal was a standout and Ayden’s mark across the back when they relentlessly kept trying to break through our defense was definitely worthy of a mention. Otto stepped up to the ruck task he had been given and I suspect the opposition rucks Dad was feeling no advantage at all. The boys went on to a well earned win and the decibels of the club song could be heard a block away – ‘Ramo’ had done it’s bit in providing the stage and the  boys had done theirs in providing a worthy spectacle, leaving the coaching group pleased and the parents proud.

Final score: Fitzroy 9-16-70 def. St Mary’s 7-6-48

Surrey Park v. Fitzroy – Round 5

It had been a few years since these boys had played Surrey Park, and they appeared eager to take them on. The breeze was quite strong, and Surrey Park won the toss and kicked with the wind in the first quarter.

Bruce introduced ‘zoning’ for the first time, and stressed the importance of ‘playing for the team’. Despite some lovely marking by Liam, Nick, David and Liam, some plucky tackling by Liam M, Sam and Aiden, Luke having a great quarter on the half back line, and Nick and David doing a good job in the centre, only two points (0.2) were scored by Fitzroy to Surrey Park’s 3.3 (21). Bruce’s message at quarter time was for the boys to concentrate on the marking, and if not able to mark, ‘to kill the ball’. Our boys seemed reluctant to get to the ball first, and Bruce asked the team to maintain a greater focus, as the umpire was rewarding the players going for the ball.

The second quarter finally saw Ben score the first (and then the second) goal, some great tackling from Mathew, Orien stepping up to play a fantastic quarter of footy, and Harry S scoring a beauty on the siren. Bruce mentioned Luke, Aiden Mathew, Jade, Harry H and for their contribution that quarter. He asked the midfielders to put themselves first to the ball, to support the back line more and to work harder.  The score at half time was Fitzroy 3.4 (22) to Surrey Park 4.4 (28)

The third quarter of this game was where the boys gave their best. The work rate picked up, the kicking against the wind didn’t deter them and they were hungrier for the ball. The back line was outstanding. Aiden, Luke, Mathew, Harry S, Liam K, & Liam M attacked the ball and played the way that Bruce had asked them to. Everyone that quarter put in and played as a team against what was clearly a formidable opposition team.  The score was Surry Park 5.4 (34) to Fitzroy 3.8 (26) coming up to the final term.

Despite some good efforts from some of the players, the final quarter was appeared frustrating for the team. The hunger for the ball dissipated, heaps of turnovers betrayed the hard work to get the ball up forward, the team stopped being accountable for each other, and not even David’s relentless efforts to keep the team going, and Luke’s deft ball-handling and tenacity out of the scrums, was enough to make the difference.

Bruce commented that the game had exposed the skills that needed to be focused on to improve the consistency and strength of the team. It was a good point to move forward from. The final score was 7.6 (48) SP to 4.8 (32) F.

 

Fitzroy v. Camberwell – Round 4

Our opposition today was a team that we had not beaten yet, and this was not lost on players and parents.  The focus on training was to get our running game going with constant, unwavering pressure – both scoreboard and defensive pressure.  Bruce was after handball, no tunnel vision with plenty of rotations.

Milestone games for Otto, David and Chris – 50 excellent games, well played guys.  A shame Chris wasn’t able to take his place owing to a virus.

Quarter 1:

David and Ben were active early, with Orien gathering some important touches.  Domenic laid a useful tackle which stopped an early goal, but Fitzroy weren’t taking advantage of their opportunities.  Some missed chest marks put Fitzroy’s back line under pressure, finally resulting in Camberwell’s first goal.  A second quickly followed after a quick centre break roving to David.

A well constructed passage of play starting with Minh in the back line to Jules to Harry to Ben resulted in a shot on goal but just wide for a point.  Shortly after another passage involving Ben to Otto and a great snap from David resulted in Fitzroy’s first goal.  A great run and shot from Jules went just wide, but our second goal followed shortly after from another quick passage of play between Orien, Otto and David.

Nick was playing well off half-back and was doing his best to inspire his teammates.  The message from Bruce at quarter-time was more talk and more attack at the footy were required.  Fitzroy looked hesitant and second to the ball, with dropped marks limiting our opportunities.

Quarter 2:

Camberwell’s loose players, open forward line and quick ball movement resulted in them scoring the first 2 goals for the quarter.  Fitzroy needed to man up, play in front and hold their marks.

A stagnant, crowded forward line resulted in 2 points to Fitzroy, but shortly after good teamwork from half-back to Ben resulted in a check-side goal.  Great team play.  Some great ruck work from Otto to Orien to Ben resulted in another shot on goal, but only a point resulted.

Camberwell’s desire for the ball and teamwork earned their next goal, but some very good play between Ben, Jules and Orien resulted in another Fitzroy shot on goal, only to be locked in the pocket and eventually cleared by Camberwell.  A wonderful smother from Levi at half-back resulted in quick ball movement to David and Otto, resulting in a free kick shot on goal by Brendan, only to find it fall short for a rushed behind.

Again Camberwell’s loose players and quick ball movement ending with a goal square handball to a free player resulted in a goal, the last for the quarter.

Half-time message:

Bruce was pleased that Fitzroy’s running game had improved, there was more team support and link handballs, more Inside 50’s and shots on goal.  The quality of ball movement, however, could be cleaner with fewer turnovers, and Fitzroy needed to be more accountable and man up when not in possession.

Bruce challenged the players to step up and apply the constant pressure drilled at training during the week.  We needed to play smart, accountable football and not let our teammates down.  We needed more talk, more commitment and to hold our marks.

Quarter 3:

The third quarter was a much more even contest because of our endeavour at the ball and willingness to run.  Good teamwork from a boundary throw-in resulted in our 1^st goal to Otto, and Jules kicked our 2^nd for the quarter from a kicking in danger free kick set shot – all because he had his head over the ball.  A lovely pass to David at full-forward resulted in our 3^rd goal for the term.

Nick and Orien continued their determined ball attack, Jack showed great work effort and Brendan’s continual contests earned Bruce’s praise at three-quarter time.  Fitzroy had done some great work to be down by 4 points.

Quarter 4:

Liam’s great endeavour was typical of Fitzroy’s improved 2^nd half.  Camberwell had plenty of the ball but failed to convert to goals early in the last quarter. Fitzroy were having trouble clearing from our back-line, but eventually a good forward drive to David on the lead resulted in a great goal.

An arm wrestle ensued between two evenly matched teams, with many forward thrusts being repelled by the opposition back line.  2 goals to Camberwell late in the quarter proved too much to overcome, but a much improved effort from Fitzroy in the second half will give the boys encouragement the next time these two teams meet.

Post match:

Bruce said a much better 2^nd half showed improvement as a team, but we cannot rely on the same players each week.  It is important that others lift also and contribute in some way. All in all Bruce was very proud of our comeback.

Well played boys – we look forward to our next meeting.

Balwyn v. Fitzroy – Round 3

Well in the end, Fitzroy got over the line to defeat Balwyn by 3 points but it was a game where as much of the action took place on the coach’s white board as out on the field. In his pre-match address, the coach said he was going to try a few new things and he didn’t disappoint. “I want to develop you as a team and I don’t care if we win, lose or draw,” was the message from Bruce as the boys prepared to try out the new game plan.  

The boys were taken out of their comfort zones and challenged to play in positions they were not used to.

In the first quarter, Dom who was in the centre for the first time stepped up magnificently, getting the ball out and demonstrating some deft handballing skills.

Otto, Sam and Jules got the team’s running game going and combined with some good marking and accurate kicking by David, Brendan and Ayden saw the Roys go into the second term four goals up.

Balwyn proved to be a good marking team and took advantage of the downhill slope in the second quarter but our on- ballers dominated in this term aided again by long, accurate kicking especially by Ayden who showed great football smarts when he saw an empty goal square and so with no other option kicked long and roosted a valuable six points for the team. Sam also starred with a great mark and a goal from 30 metres out. New recruits Minh and Liam M. also made valuable contributions in attack this quarter.

The second half of the game became a much more tense affair than many –especially the parents- had anticipated. Balwyn showed great spirit to claw back to within touching distance of the Roy boys and by the time the final siren sounded, the game had become a real nail biter. Harry S applied good pressure but felt it more when he kicked two points in the dying minutes when the game could have gone either way. Fortunately the siren went when the ball was in Balwyn’s hands with Fitzroy winning by just four points. The parents wiped the sweat off their brow and the boys sung the song with extra gusto. Bruce was the only person who seemed unfazed by the drama. He said it was the best win of the year. One of the most satisfying things to take away from the game he said was the number of players who stepped up in roles they weren’t used to playing.

Bundoora v. Fitzroy – Round 2

Match Report

“Spirit of Unity” on the Anzac Weekend

The Fitzroy JFC Under 14 Browns played Bundoora on the Sunday after Anzac Day, and in his opening address, Bruce told the boys that they should be inspired by the sacrifice and spirit of the Anzacs, and made the point that no single player can win a struggle like this on their own.  Unity is the key to overcoming determined opposition.

Telfer Reserve is high on a hill, and the power lines that run across its northern boundary create a swirling wind tunnel.  It was clear that the scoring was all going to be at one end, and so it proved as Fitzroy won the toss and elected to kick into a very stiff westerly breeze.  It was a measure of the great determination shown by the players that we were able to keep play in our half for much of the quarter, and Harry kicked a strong goal, but the exposed conditions and roaring wind meant that any kick by Bundoora was going 40 metres or more and by quarter time, the score was 3.3 for the home side to 1.1 for Fitzroy. Still, as the next quarter was to show, kicking any score against the wind was a real achievement.

Bruce told the boys at quarter time that he wanted to see the midfielders hunt the ball in attack, and in defence to hunt their opponents.  He demanded at least 10 shots on goal, and he sharply reminded a number of the players about his expectations for how they were to play. 

As the second quarter began the class of the Fitzroy side now really began to show; the game was played exclusively in the Fitzroy half.  Paul snapped to make it only one goal the difference, then it began to rain scoring shots in a sustained and relentless attack on goal – Matt, Ben, David, Jules and Matt again kicked majors, and by half time, Fitzroy had had 16 shots on goal and Bundoora didn’t get the ball beyond the centre square.  Otto in particular played a true centre half forward role.  Fitzroy took their score from 1.1 to 7.10.  Bundoora remained at 3.3.

 At half time the Coach warned the players of the need to stay focused.  He called for longer handballs into space. The third quarter began as a real arm wrestle.  Bundoora goaled and Fitzroy heroically got one back against the wind.  Bundoora goaled three more times;  keeping them to only four goals for the quarter was a function of desperate defence by the Fitzroy backline and hard-ball gets and long handballs from our midfield. Three quarter time score was Bundoora 7.5 Fitzroy 8.10, an 11 point buffer to the visitors.

 The Coach praised the efforts of the boys at three quarter time. Geoff Richardson reminded them that the wind was not going to win it for them and that great effort would still be needed. 

 The final quarter began with a goal from Ben, who had played magnificently all day.  Liam flew for what was almost a great speccie, Ayden goaled, Orien was indomitable along the half back line, repelling every attempt by a now desperate Bundoora to get the ball into their forward line and sending the ball deep into attack.  Every player contributed as the inevitable victory approached.  Jack took a strong grab and hit the post, Ayden kicked truly and by the final siren, the margin, only 11 points at ¾ time, was 48 points, an 8 goal victory.  The Spirit of Unity was there for all to see and enjoy.

 Fitzroy 13.17 defeated Bundoora 7.5

Fitzroy v. Park Orchards – Round 1

Match Report

Welcome to the 2009 year, and a special welcome to our five new players!

It was great to be back at Peterson Oval with the boys significantly taller, broader and seemingly more composed than last year. Five new members, Jack, Jade, Julian, Minh and Liam have joined the team that have predominantly been together for the last four years, with Bruce. The team and the parent group welcoming them.

David, Evan and Luke, were voted by the players as captains this year. Congratulations to the three of them and we look forward to them leading the boys on to the field each week.

The quarters this year are 20 minutes long, and the extra five minutes seemed to make a difference to the boys and the quarters seemed lot longer for those of us watching! Although 3pm games mean cold feet and noses, there is the beauty of the soft late afternoon sunshine and misty light.

Before the game, Bruce asked the onballers to run hard, the back line to ‘take them on’ and the forwards to ‘play smart, create some space’.  Starting off were Evan, Dom and Minh in the backline; Aiden, Sam and Harry H at half back; Chris, Luke and Matthew in the centre; Ben, Otto and Harry S half forward; Brendon, Nick, Liam K up forward, David in the ruck, and Jules and Orien roving. Providing fresh legs regularly were Liam M, Levi, Julian, Jack and Jade on the interchange, which Bruce swapping the boys regularly throughout the game.

The game was dominated by the Roy Boys! In the first quarter, a lot of the play was in Fitzroy’s half of the ground, with some lovely marks taken by Orien, Matty, Ben, Harry H and David. The midfielders kept up the pressure. Nick and Brendon kicked a couple of good goals following some beautiful play from David and Jules; Ben, Otto and Orien kicked their first goals for the year, with minor scores from Jules, Liam K, Otto, Ben and a rushed point for good measure! The score at the first break of Fitzroy 5.5 to Park Orchards 1.0 reflected the hard work of the centre line, some awesome defensive work from Sam and Dom. It was a great team effort, with the ball being shared around. The half time score of 7.10 to 3.0 showed the coaching team what the boys needed to focus on in their training but continued to reflect the team effort on the day. At half time, Bruce asked the boys to man up and work harder when they didn’t have control of the ball, which they responded to in the last half.

A great third quarter to Minh and Jack particularly, with Orien taking spectacular marks, David and Ben working tirelessly at the ball; Luke, Jules and Otto moving it down the ground and delivering it to Harry H, Nick, Ben, Aiden and David; Levi, Evan and Brendon kicking into the space and tackling hard; Matty and Chris fearless in their onball skills and tackling; Liam K running hard at the ball; and Dom and Sam providing a solid defensive counter to Park Orchard’s efforts to keep the ball in their half of the ground. At the last change, the score was 10.13 to 5.0.

In the final term, the boys were tiring but continued to give their all. Park Orchards played competitively in the final term and scored. The final score was Fitzroy 12.14 (86) to Park Orchards 7.3 (45)

It was good to see the boys working together as a team, and being prepared to change positions, give each other breaks, share the ball around, shepherd for each other and include the new players.  They seemed to enjoy the game!

It’s great to be back!