AFLDD MATCH REPORT
Goondiwindi Hawks vs Coolaroo Roos
Round 9 – 29 May 2010
Goondiwindi caused the biggest upset of the AFL Darling Downs season by defeating last year’s premiers, Coolaroo, by 14 points.
In muddy conditions, both teams scrambled for possession trying to gain the upper hand early in the first quarter. Whilst neither team dominated the first term, the ball changed hands regularly with the Hawks holding a slender lead at the first change.
The second term was just as scrappy as the first, but a lapse in concentration from the Hawks allowed Coolaroo two quick goals to stay in the game. The Hawks managed to score a couple of goals before halftime to gain the upper hand before going into the long break.
The third quarter saw the Hawks come out from the main break with all guns blazing and showed their opposition they are a force to be reckoned with, piling on four goals to nil.Goondiwindi dominated the third term with excellent skills across the ground in the muddy conditions to break the game wide open, but still squandered a couple of opportunities in front of goal.
At the third term siren, the Hawks had a comfortable lead over the Roos going into the final change with a 47 point buffer.
Hawks’ Matt Starling played an outstanding defensive game at halfback with Goondiwindi welcoming back Dave O’Toole at centre half back, who provided that extra support in the backline, combining well to hold off Coolaroo’s forward momentum towards goal.
The centre was a hive of activity for the green and gold. Hawks’ Stuart Lowe rucked tirelessly all game, ably supported by midfielder, Andy Thomas, who constantly managed to move the ball forward. Matt Brown provided a strong target for the Hawks across half forward, taking strong marks and setting up goals.
Coolaroo’s Phil Driese once again showed his talent and speed, whilst Fergal Byrne, on the wing worked tirelessly for the Roos, never giving up.
Coolaroo showed why they are premiership contenders, not giving up, stepping their game up a notch or two in the final quarter. This, combined with the Hawks’ nerves and lack of intensity at the ball, allowed Coolaroo to pile on 5 goals in the last minutes of the game.
It was not enough for Coolaroo to overcome such a deficit and the Hawks held on for a confidence-boosting win.
The Hawks coaching staff was pleased with the team’s win. “It was a very satisfying win. It was a great team effort by the boys to stand tall against Coolaroo and prove to themselves that they can match it with the top teams. It was great to be near full strength again.”
Next week Goondiwindi travel to Rockville Park to take on leaders, Toowoomba Tigers.
Final Scores:
Teams 3rd Qtr Final Score
Goondiwindi Hawks 10.15 (75) 10.15 (75)
Coolaroo Roos 4.4 (28) 9.7 (61)
Goondiwindi Best Players: Matt Starling, Stuart Lowe, Matt Brown, Andy Thomas,
Dave O’Toole
Coolaroo Best Players: Fergal Byrne, Phil Driese
Kim Thomas
Goondiwindi Hawks
(Ph: 46309424)
Last Modified on 25/07/2011 18:09