Under 9s Gala Day 2009
Friday, 09th October 09
This weekend Gala Day 2009 moved to the home of the Western Suburbs FC - Picken Oval.
Now used to the format of short successive games, our challenge this week was the formidable strength of the opposition. The Maroubra Saints, the Newtown Swans and Western Suburbs all field strong and well balanced teams, and our boys needed to be ‘on their toes’ to be able to match it with these teams. Liam captained the team in our first game against Newtown Red. Ben was able to kick the one and only goal for the match and as a result, the team secured the winning start we were looking for. The defence played exceptionally well with Matt, Angus and Bailey continually driving the ball back into attack. Thanks must also go to Charlie who played for the Newtown team - great sportsmanship Charlie!
In our second game we faced the strong Maroubra black team, and Jonah winning the toss meant we had the benefit of kicking with a slight breeze. Goals came quickly through Josh & Ewan (2), while the Saints could only manage one goal in reply. We continued our good form in our next game against the Newtown White with Josh keeping to goal umpire busy kicking one goal and two points. To even up the numbers Lewis played for the opposition - thanks.
So at the halfway mark of Gala Day (2), we had three wins from three games. The team were doing everything asked of them, Our defenders were playing tight 'finals football' and as a result our opposition were finding it hard to score. Our centre line were running to both ends of the field, but most importantly always quick to drop back and give support to the defenders · Our forwards were keeping their zone open, and therefore giving each other a fair chance to test the oppositions defence. · and finally, at centre bounces we always had a defender, and two wingers running through the centre pack. .....BUT we now had the biggest challenge of the day - Maroubra Red. ....and what a game !!.
We started with a forward push which quickly resulted in a great snap and goal by Angus. The next 9 minutes was tough “finals football”. The ball was moving from end to end very quickly but no team was troubling the goal umpires . Our defence were magnificent, with Thomas, Lewis, Will, Ben and Lindon holding the might of the Maroubra team to only three points. Then with only a minute to play, Maroubra scored two quick goals to snatch victory. While the Saints went on to win Gala Day 2009, I know that the Drummoyne Under 9's pushed them to point where “lady luck” was the only difference between the two teams. A great game and one to remember.
Our next game was against the Drummoyne Under 8's. Captained by Bailey and with Matt lining up in the forward line the boys were too strong for the younger Drummoyne team. Matt kicked two goals and Bailey kicked one. It was great to see the U8's match it with our boys and it goes to prove that there are some stronger talented players coming through to next years U9 competition. Our last game was against our hosts - Wests. Always a powerhouse of the competition. Well I thought the Maroubra Red games was a cracker, but this one took U9 footy to a new level. It had everything, including three sensational goals (Ben 1 & Ewan 2) and tough and unrelenting defence. When the final siren rang the Power were in front by one goal. It was a magnificent win and a fitting way to conclude our season.
So in summary, Gala Day like the 2009 season had many highlights. Skills developed with each game, teamwork, sportsmanship were always on display. Above all many friendships were formed, which is what footy is all about. On behalf of Coaches & Team Manager, we'd like to thank all players and their families for their contribution for not only over the two weeks of Gala Day, but the whole 2009 season. Enjoy the September fun!
