Match Reports for Under 9 Orange

Round No: 13

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Melton South 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Caedon Lane, Oscar Hare, Josh Hickmott, Will Price, Ryan Seymour, Riley Szkilnyk, Baxter Slater, Kyle Anderson, Jack Keeping, Sam Mackay

Match Comments:

Led ably by our captains Ryan Seymour, Baxter Slater and Lachlan Shore, our boys took to the tacky Sankey Reserve to begin play. We knew the opposition today would be strong after the blockbuster game under lights earlier in the season. It looked like business as usual in the first quarter however when Oscar Hare ran through the lines and dobbed a goal; although it would be the last one we would score until deep into the third quarter. Having said that, against bigger opposition, our boys’ determination and great pack-marking meant that we able to limit Melton South’s penetration into the forward line as well. It seemed almost with ease at times that Ryan Seymour and Kyle Anderson took the big grab whilst the pack fell from around them. Not to be outdone, our smaller guys such as Will Price and Caedon Lane – usually known better for their crumbing and running abilities – took two of the best contested marks of the season. It was absolutely fantastic to see the four of these boys’ confidence growing with every game they get under their belt. Riley Szkilnyk’s determination across half-back meant that he formed an almost impenetrable wall. Many times Melton South made the mistake of trying to go past him, only to find Riley taking the mark and rebounding play the Rookies way. It was great to see Baxter Slater back in full flight. Coming off a couple of weeks of sickness, Baxter’s gritty, hard-running ball carry continually moved the ball forward; setting up opportunities for our forwards – forwards such as the high-flying Joshua Hickmott who stood tall and kicked an extraordinary goal in the last quarter. The Krakouer brothers – Jack Keeping and Sam Mackay – were back to their best as well, finding each other in space, smothering the opposition’s kicks and making sure that the ball was delivered neatly to their teammates further up the ground. This combination meant that Melton South often looked like they were spectating, such was their ease. But the highlight of the day was definitely the after match team song. Not since the Western Bulldogs’ win the day before had a side had so many people singing in the circle. Parents, siblings and I reckon even passers-by were drawn into the mix. It was a “huge” song sung by a very proud group. Well done guys. Another hard fought game played against bigger opposition. This team of Rookies should always hold the heads high.

Round No: 12

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Sunbury 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Caedon Lane, Josh McDonald, Josh Sanderson, Will Price, Moray Ormiston, Jack Keeping, Jack Turnbull, Ryan Seymour, Sam McKibbin, Alex McKenzie, Shaun McAndrew

Match Comments:

On probably the coldest and windiest Sunday of the year, our boys ventured out to Sunbury to take on the locals. Beautifully led by our co-captains, Josh McDonald and Josh Sanderson, our lads won the toss and decided to kick with the gale! It should have been a scrappy affair, but the boys from both sides adapted to the conditions quickly and proceeded to play copybook possession football. In a tightly fought game, it was our tenacity and willingness to attack the football that eventually wore the opposition down. On a day where the crumbers usually take control, it was the high pack-marking of Jack Turnbull, Ryan Seymour and Jack Keeping that was a stand out. On several occasions, it was one of these boys who were left standing when the pack fell off around them. That’s not to say that our little guys were left watching – the likes of Josh Sanderson, Moray Ormiston and Shaun McAndrew were willing to take on the opposition’s big guys at every contest. They never once took a backward step, continuing to fight for every inch of ground. Alex McKenzie’s inspirational run and goal was a highlight, leaving the Sunbury players watching on in awe; whilst Sam McKibbin’s drive through the centre corridor gave us many opportunities to score. Will Price’s in and under play, combined with his precise left foot kicking, meant that he needed to be manned up in the second half; which freed up Caedon Lane to run through the lines, setting up opportunity after opportunity to pepper the goals. But on a day where leaders stand up and be counted for, it was Josh McDonald who took the game by the scruff of the neck. If he wasn’t fighting for the ball on the ground, he was dodging and weaving his way through packs, then driving the ball long – never missing a target. Once again guys, a wonderful display of putting team plans into practice. Well done everyone.

Round No: 11

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Romsey 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Lachlan Shore, Josh Hickmott, Sam McKibbin, Jack Turnbull, Ned Slater, Flynn McIver, Jackson Taylor, James Mahoney

Match Comments:

If you didn’t know better, and had been venturing past Gardiner Reserve on Sunday, you could have been forgiven for thinking that an AFL team had arrived in town. Players were lining up for photos, a huge crowd stood round – possibly looking for autographs! – whilst officials scampered around tending to their every needs. After running out on to the ground however, all the pre-match hype had been forgotten about and the boys were ready for battle. Following a wet and windy day on Saturday, the team was met by a slightly sodden and slippery Gardiner Reserve, and it took the boys a little while to get their footing and adjust. Romsey had certainly brought their A-game this week and proceeded to challenge us at every contest. If not for our two captains for the week – Sam McKibbin and Jack Turnbull – we may well have lost the game by half time. Jack’s big marks and bustling, strong play enabled our smaller players to gain possession at the packs; whilst Sam led from the front, breaking through “tackles” and kicking long to our forwards. This is where the silky skills of Josh Hickmott and the tenacity of Flynn McIver come to the fore. Josh’s clean hands to players in better position to kick set up many opportunities to score, whilst Flynn’s hard running and bouncing made the Romsey backline stand up and take notice. As always, Ned Slater’s in and under game gave the team drive – for such a small frame, he certainly has a massive heart!! The ever-reliable Jackson Taylor was like a General on the weekend, directing play and making it near impossible for Romsey to penetrate the Rookies’ goals. At the same time, James Mahoney’s hard-running and ferocious attack on the ball up forward meant that we were able to keep the ball in the scoring zone for longer periods of time. But one player stood out this weekend, putting on an absolute clinic for his family and friends who came far and wide to watch him (and possibly attend his old man’s 40th!!) – and that was Lachlan Shore. At one stage, we feared that he had “leather poisoning” after he had kicked the ball so much. His ability to run to space and provide an option, combined with “polish” enabled our boys to run over a very brave Romsey. Another fantastic and determined effort boys – well done.

Round No: 10

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Rupertswood 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Baxter Slater, Alex McKenzie, Lachlan Shore, Ned Slater, Kyle Andersen, Riley Szkylnyk, Oscar Hare, Kyle Andersen, Ned Young, Caedon Lane

Match Comments:

ROUND 9 VS. RUPERTSWOOD @ Rupertswood Oval No.2, Sunday 27th June 2010 In our round 3 encounter earlier in the year against Rupertswood it was an open free flowing game however it was going to be difficult to play that style of game in the muddy conditions that greeted us upon arrival at the ground. Rupertswood got off to a flying start and in the first quarter controlled most of the play. Lachlan Shore and Ned Young were the two that provided strength through the centre and their clean disposal of the ball in tough conditions led to a goal late in the first term. The injection of Ned Slater into the centre, a move that has paid dividends for the team all season, got the ball moving our way in the second quarter. The midfield pressure applied by Riley Szykylnk and Oscar Hare held the ball in our forward line for most of the quarter however our wayward kicking meant that we failed to put scoreboard pressure on the opposition prior to the halftime break. Just prior to halftime though Baxter Slater broke the shackles and begun to stamp his authority on the game and set the tone for the team going into the second half. Having refocused at half time the team was led out by Ned young and Sean McAndrew, our joint captains for the game, ready for battle. The third term was a tug-a-war. Rupertswood out of the blocks quickly with a goal and then an answer by Gisborne. Bailee Tait was a sole hand in defence and held his position well ready to repel any forward moves by Rupertswood. Baxter continued to dominate and was on his way to putting in his best team game for the season. Late in the third term the game started to open up and the boys started to direct play through the corridor which assisted us in finding more direct avenues to goal. Caedon Lane was making the most of his opportunities up forward and was lively in front of goal. At three quarter time with scores level the boys were instructed to run, run and run. And run they did. The fourth quarter started with great drive out of the centre from Kyle Andersen who played yet another fantastic game. Alex McDonald had played a great game in the first three quarters and in the final term he made the difference. His run and movement of the ball into the forward line provided the team with numerous opportunities to score. It was without a doubt Alex’s best game all year and his brilliant performance ensured we finished the game off in a strong fashion. A hard fought effort in trying conditions. Well done boys!!!

Round No: 9

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Melton 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Baxter Slater, Jack Keeping, Caedon Lane, Lachlan Shore, Wil Price, Oscar Hare, Riley Szkilnyk, Sam McKibbin, Kyle Andersen, Ned Young, Flynn McIver, Joshua McDonald

Match Comments:

As reported through the week the match against Melton was to be Finn’s last with us for the season and the boys were keen to give him a good send off. Joshua Hickmott and Baillie Tatt led the team out as captains. We started the game in fine style with Baxter Slater moving the ball forward and finding the good leading targets of Lachlan Shore and Sam McKibbin. Sam continued to provide an avenue into our forward line for most of the game and delivered the ball well off half forward. Throughout a tough quarter Joshua McDonald and Lachlan Shore displayed a great use of the corridor, accumulating a number of possessions that enable us to begin to open the game up. Under immense pressure in the second quarter Flynn McIver provided a highlight burst through a pack at half forward which was followed by a dashing run into the forward line before delivering effectively to a leading forward. With Melton pressing hard and putting scoreboard pressure on through some of their tall timber it was another two of our smaller players Wil Price and Caedon Lane who stood up to be counted. Wil’s in and under game was fantastic and he showed that we he turns it on he has the ability to have a real influence on the game. Caedon’s silky skills were on show for all to see. His ability to work through crowded spaces and deliver with high efficiency brought other players into the game and contributed to keeping us in the game going into the half time break. Throughout the third quarter Riley Szkilnyk was amazing building the wall across half forward and denied the ball finding its way out of our forward line with a fine display of strong marking. Kyle Andersen also provided some strength for us in the ruck and continues to prove invaluable when asked to fulfil a role for the team. While our intensity had lifted and we had a lot of the play our inability to make the most of our opportunities in front of goal meant that close to ¾ qtr time we were in uncharted waters, a number of goals down. It was efforts such as Ned Young’s attack on the ball late in the quarter though that signalled to Melton that we weren’t about to let the game get out of reach. After running hard to effect an inspirational goal saving smother in the third quarter Jack Keeping’s run through the centre of the ground and delivery of the ball to our forwards created numerous scoring opportunities early in the final term. Oscar Hare took two key marks for us resulting in two goals for the team. A final term come back was looming. Baxter Slater was effective running straight at goal and led a full forward press by the whole team. Throwing caution to the wind the boys dug deep to bring home a magnificent hard fought contest.

Round No: 8

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Lancefield 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Sam Mackay, Jack Keeping, Baxter Slater, Josh McDonald, Baille Tatt, Oscar Hare, Sam McKibbin, Jackson Taylor, Lachlan Shore

Match Comments:

The air was filled with anticipation as the crowd gathered for the home fixture against Lancefield. After having played them in the first game of the year we knew that they were formidable opponents and that we would have to be on our game to come out in front. Led by Ned Slater and James Mahoney the boys took to the field focused and ready to leave their best game on the ground. Jack Keeping’s ability to find the ball and propel the team forward in first quarter help set up a solid start to the game. Jack linked well with Lachlan Shore who continues to show his footy smarts. Lachlan’s ability to choose the right option under pressure straightened the team up and meant that we focused on moving the ball through the corridor. Sam Mackay also showed early signs of having a solid game. Given a run with role in the second quarter Baxter Slater began to get on top of one of Lancefield’s key play makers. Not only did Baxter nullify his opponent but his clean ball handling and disposal helped keep us in the game going into half time. Some sole searching done at half time and with a few structural changes made to the line up the boys were eager to hit the ground running for the second half. With the challenge put to them to run harder, kick longer and to be more accountable the boys certainly delivered. In particular Sam Mackay helped turn the momentum of the game. Having repelled the opposition a number of times from the back line in the first half, Sam was moved into the centre which proved to be a match winning move. Sam’s attack on the footy, his ability to deliver the ball to players in space and then run to defend when the opposition had the ball was inspirational to his team mates. Additionally the team was sparked into action early in the third quarter by a number of dashing runs through the centre of the ground by Josh McDonald. Having broken the game open with his running Josh was able to find a strong marking option in Baillie Tatt who this week took a number solid grabs and provided a target up forward. He was well supported when the ball came to ground by Oscar Hare. At three quarter time with a narrow lead to defend the team was asked for one last supreme effort. Jackson Taylor and Sam McKibbin set the tone. Jackson taking two great marks in the final quarter and Sam McKibbin’s attack on the ball fantastic. All the skills were on display with the ball moving from end to end very quickly. In the end it was a total team effort that meant we came out on top in what was a highly skilled and competitive game. Well done.

Round No: 7

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Rolling Meadows 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Baxter Slater, Sam Mackay, Kyle Andersen, Jack Keeping, Alex McKenzie, Jack Turnbull, Shaun McAndrew, Lachlan Shore, James Mahoney, Ned Slater

Match Comments:

When arriving at Gardiners Reserve the team was met with 'real footy conditions' which seemingly boosted spirits and had the boys keen to take the field. Flynn McIver and Riley Szykilnyk led the team onto the field for what was to be a hard fought contest. In the first half Rolling Meadows went forward a number of times only to be denied by some solid defence, largely due to the strong attack on the ball from Sam Mackay. When in defence Sam repelled the ball with monotonous regularity and he also provided run through the middle in the second half. The mid field started to work their way into the game in the second quarter and we attacked the goals as a result of a fine display of long kicking from Lachlan Shore, Alex McKenzie and James Mahoney. By half time we had balanced the scoreboard and the hard running from Baxter Slater helped set up a number of scoring opportunities early in the third quarter. Jack Keeping's stylish movement of the ball and Kyle Andersen's strength in packs opened the play up and brought other players into the game. Rolling Meadows came out firing in the final quarter however some strong marking and long kicking by Jack Turnbull matched with Shaun McAndrew's commitment to attacking the ball, saw off a their attacking play. As he has done right throughout the season when thrown into the middle in the last quarter, Ned Slater provided a spark and led the team in finishing off the game extremely well. Yet another great team performance. (It's also good to hear our team song being sung louder and louder each week. Great work boys.)

Round No: 6

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Melton South 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Kyle Anderson, Sam McKibbin, Riley Szkilnyk, Josh Sanderson, Finn Callinan, Josh McDonald, Flynn McIver, Jackson Taylor, Joshua Hickmott

Match Comments:

Well, Friday night football is definitely alive and well. The much anticipated Blockbuster under lights saw the Gisborne Rookies travel to Melton to take on the much skilled Melton South JFC. Once again, our boys were smaller, but their hard attack on the football meant that we continued to get plenty of the ball. Sam Mackay & Jack Keeping led from the front – captaining their side for the first time and constantly putting their bodies on the line, setting a great example for the rest of the team. Kyle Anderson and Finn Callinan were almost impenetrable across the backline, consistently forming a “wall” which made it almost impossible to pass. Both boys were prepared to put their bodies in front of their opponents, take the mark and then drive the ball forward to our ball carriers. A fantastic combination down back. Sam McKibbin’s second game back was just what the team needed and the doctor ordered. With an interrupted pre-season and the miles not quite back in the legs, Sam’s bullocky determination meant that our crumbers had plenty of opportunities to put on scoreboard pressure. He really is an inspiration to our side. Jackson Taylor, Joshua Hickmott and Joshua Sanderson were in and under all night – constantly winning the ball at ground level and out of the packs and feeding our outside runners. It was exciting play such as this that meant we were able to contend against the bigger Melton South players. Joshua McDonald repeatedly won the ball for his team and made sure that his precise kicking found a team mate every time; while Riley Szkilnyk and Flynn McIver bounced their way through the centre and drove the ball long down the centre corridor on a number of occasions, providing our forwards with many opportunities to score. Once again, it was our ferocity at the football and unselfish play that meant we could match it with our opponents. Even though we were smaller, the ability of every one of our players to share the ball around to someone in a better position, by hand or foot, proved to be the difference. Congratulations boys on another great team effort.

Round No: 5

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Sunbury 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Ryan Seymour, Caedon Lane, Josh McDonald, Flynn McIver, Wil Price, Ned Young, Shaun McAndrew, Finn Callinan, Jack Keeping, Sam Mackay

Match Comments:

Another dominating performance by the entire team. All players continue to show great discipline to play to our team rules and in particular this week focus on playing through the corridor. Caedon Lane was lively through the midfield and brought a number of his team mates into the game. Up forward Ned Young, Sam Mackay and Jack Keeping all provided good targets at different stages of the game. They were well supported by debutant Shaun McAndrew who found his feet early and made a real impact particular in the first half. Sam McKibbin also played his first game for the season after a long lay off with injury. Sam's commitment to the team and dedication to getting back on the field has been amazing. Well done Sam, good to have you back on the ground. Wil Price was fantastic through the midfield and up forward, bursting through a number of packs and breaking the game open. Flynn McIver was one of the few players who held his position in the back line provided a solid wall of defence when the opposition went forward. Finn Callinan continued his solid run of form taking a number of courageous marks. Finn is becoming a very reliable player and it’s great to hear that we will have him on board for at least another 6 weeks. Undoubtedly the stand out today was Ryan Seymour who controlled the play early. Sure hands when gathering the ball and an eagerness to run through the lines resulted in Ryan creating a number of scoring opportunities. Josh McDonald also created havoc for the opposition with his ability to gather the ball and kick long. Kyle and Oscar captained the team well in yet another all round team performance. Next week we are on show in Friday Night Footy under lights at Melton South. Another great chance for us to display the skills we continue to develop each week at training. GREAT WORK!

Round No: 4

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Romsey 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

James Mahoney, Joshua Sanderson, Kyle Andersen, Oscar Hare, Jack Turnbull, Ballie Tatt, Finn Callinan, Lachlan Shore

Match Comments:

Another great performance by the team. Led by Baxter Slater and Finn Callinan the boys had to adjust early in the game to slippery conditions. Oscar Hare showed the way by being first to the ball and James Mahoney's strong marking gave the whole team confidence. The four quarter effort by both Oscar and James was fantastic. Kyle Andersen gave the team a target up forward and took a number of crucial marks that resulted in scoring opportunities. Down back Jack Turnbull and Finn Callinan were very solid and when thrown forward Finn kicked an important goal for the team. Ballie Tatt yet again led well into space and Joshua Sanderson was impressive competing in packs when playing through the midfield. Our focus for the week was on kicking and Lachlan Shore was a stand out all game with his correct kicking technique. Lachlan's accurate kicking to leading options in the corridor was terrific. The team's skill level continues to improve each week and is proving to be the difference come game day. Fantastic effort boys, keep up the good work.

Round No: 3

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Rupertswood 0 0 0 (Home Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Joshua Hickmott, Caedon Lane, Joshua McDonald, Jack Turnbull, Sam Mackay, Baillie Tatt, Jack Keeping, Alex McKenzie, Oscar Hare, Jackson Taylor, Ned Young

Match Comments:

Another fantastic display of skills by our Under 9's. Their ability to hit a target and their general aggression towards the football and the contest is making this a must see game for the Rookies Football Club. Some highlights for today were the following: Joshua Hickmott's repeated contested efforts - he continually threw his body on the line. Caedon Lane's running ability and skill when passing the ball. His leadership was exemplary also. Joshua McDonald really came to play today - his family were there to witness his all-round ability - in and under, as well as precision kicking. Jack Turnbull's focussed approach to the game meant that we had ample opportunities to score, whilst Baillie Tatt's strong mark in the last quarter received a rousing applause. Sam Mackay's fierceness at the ball allowed our ball carriers to run and put on plenty of scoreboard pressure. Jack Keeping's game is improving every week - his big marks and his first major for the year were a key highlight. Alex McKenzie led from the front today - an exemplary game from a fantastic captain. Oscar Hare's attack on the footy and hard in and under skills were fantastic - winning many contests; whilst Jackson Taylor's run through the centre corridor set up many scoring opportunities. Ned Young's passing into the forward line was excellent, setting up a number of goals. Again, a very clean and skilful display of Under 9's football. Well done to all.

Round No: 2

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Melton 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Finn Callinan, Riley Szkilnyk, Baxter Slater, Sam Mackay, Flynn McIver, Ned Slater, Ryan Seymour

Match Comments:

Driving in to Melton this morning, it was fantastic to see the sun shining – a definite change from the miserable conditions of the week before. The boys certainly warmed to the warmer conditions, and were full of run and talk for the entire game. Both sides certainly “came out to play”. Their attack on the footy was ferocious and our boys were determined to not give their opponent an inch. The game was hard, closely contested, and full of smothers and great skill. Finn Callinan was a strong contributor, holding together our backline and being more than prepared to put his body on the line at every contest. Together with Riley Szkilnyk, our defence was almost impenetrable, keeping the opposition to limited scoring attempts. Ryan Seymour and Flynn McIver combined well on more than one occasion. Their enthusiasm and team spirit, lifting our boys at every break. Sam Mackay controlled the ball, frequently dodging players to drive his team forward and create scoring opportunities, whilst Ned Slater’s attack on the footy and at marking contests continues to be relentless. Brother Baxter (Slater) capitalised on every opportunity that was presented to him, especially up forward where he kicked a number of goals. Again, it was his determination that got him so much of the ball. After a strong first round performance, and a few more of the boys knowing what they needed to do, our Under 9’s took all before them and were able to walk off the ground with their heads held high. Their skills and terrific team play will certainly make them a side to watch this year. Well done guys.

Round No: 1

Gisborne Rookies 0 0 0 Drew with Lancefield 0 0 0 (Away Game)

Goal Kickers:

Best Players:

Caedon Lane, Sam Ramsay, Baxter Slater, Ned Slater, Jack Turnbull, Kyle Andersen, Ballie Tatt, Wil Price, Lachlan Shore

Match Comments:

Having come out of 123 days straight of above 20 degrees, it was quite a shock to all of us to be starting our first game in the rain. It didn't stop the boys though, whom were all keen to get out on the field and get their first kick for the season. The match was of a great standard, showing off the obvious hard pre-season they had put in. Skills were great, much fun was had, and all the boys played in the spirit of the game. The Slater brothers started off the year well, ferociously attacking any loose ball, whilst Sam Ramsay read the play well and controlled our attacks forward. Caedon Lane took some great marks and with the help of Baillie Tatt helped the team score some valuable goals. Lachlan Shore demonstrated his silky skills alongside Wil Price, who disposed of the ball quickly and effectively. Kyle Andersen, on more than one occasion, cleared the ball strongly out of the backline whilst Jack Turnbull's enthusiasm seemed to rub off on everyone around him. A great first game, a fantastic team effort and a lot of fun had by all in attendance. Looking forward to a wonderful year.

back to Results menu