Ando’s Round 7 Match Report vs Eagles

Another fantastic effort from the reserve boys on Friday night out at Woodville. Being the third time playing the eagles in a month, we knew that we were in for another solid contest against a very determined side.

The game was a tale of two halves. During the first we played a exciting brand of football, winning the contest and being able to make some clean and smart decisions with the footy to be up at half time by 5 goals.

To the eagles credit, they came out after the break to lift their intensity around the ball and put a strangle on our ability to move the ball with any good flow. Having said that, as a group we made some fundamental errors with ball in hand that allowed eagles to claw their way back into the contest. Something that has been a work in progress and shows we still need some improvement in certain areas when the heat in the contest rises.

Once again the boys showed their ability to work through it and demonstrated huge character and grit to find a way to win. This is something that is growing in the group, being able to reset and get the game back on our terms or find a way just to settle the game.

A best on ground performance from Hamish Ellem was extremely pleasing. Having played forward for the last couple of years, for him to be able to slot into the backline and play the way he did shows us he is a very talented player with a few strings to his game.

Pat Fairlie and Cade Kennedy controlled the midfield throughout the day. Mick Mattingly looked like he is gaining some good form and match fitness and Sam May set the standards with his relentless approach.

We spoke after the game about the way we are growing as a squad and agreed we still have so much improvement in front of us.

Next week sees another challenge heading down south to play the Panthers who will be desperate to get a win.

Thanks for the supporters who braved the cold to come out and cheer on the boys. It’s always much appreciated.

Ryan Anderson

Reserves Coach