Report by Mitch Brown
On Sunday March 15, the U16 Stingrays Development Squad played a practice match against Gippsland Power.
We were treated to cool and dry weather conditions, and a terrific ground surface at the Garfield Recreation Reserve.
The first quarter began with swarming pressure all over the ground, with Gippsland’s constant numbers around the ball allowing them to score the first three goals of the match.
Dandenong steadied late, with our defence halting the Power attack whilst our forwards found another gear, slamming on two quick goals before quarter time.
Some good short kicking and linkage plays created a number of opportunities for the Stingrays early in the second quarter, but we were unable to capitalise thanks due to the Power’s electrifying defensive pressure.
They were able to keep us goalless throughout the second term, while a few momentary lapses around the ground were punished by the Power attack, allowing them to coast to a 27-point lead at the main break.
The third term began much like the two that came before it – with a blistering start from the Gippsland forward line. A clever snap and a strong pack mark and goal to the Power stretched their lead.
The Stingrays were forced to take the game on a bit more as the deficit increased. We found some attacking flair, but again most of the scoring opportunities were thwarted by the airtight Gippsland defence.
At three quarter time, Gippsland led by 45, but showed no signs of letting up in the fourth with seven scoring shots, while the Stingrays struggled again to make the most of their opportunities, managing only three behinds for the whole quarter.
The final siren eventually rang out, with Gippsland comfortable 64-point victors.
In spite of the lopsided scoreline, our boys never gave in and continued to fight until the bitter end, and it was excellent to see such resilience in a squad that will only keep improving.
Last Modified on 17/03/2015 08:58