Tocumwal produced patches of impressive football and plenty of spirit despite going down to the Picola League’s reigning premiers on Saturday.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Despite Toc having the home ground advantage, and a home crowd that had much to cheer about, Katamatite were too strong.
The visitors came out firing early, booting six unanswered goals in the opening term, despite the inspirational message from Dennis Sutton at the Toc huddle before the game.
While the scoreboard pressure was immediate, Tocumwal refused to drop their heads and went to work tightening up around the contest and beginning to find their rhythm.
That resilience was on full display in the second quarter.
Led by captain Jack Tyndall and driven through the midfield by Kyle Maher and Ricky Gittens, Tocumwal took the game right up to the premiers.
The home side slammed on four goals for the term, showing they could match it with the competition benchmark when their ball movement clicked.
Katamatite responded after the main break with a strong third quarter, but Tocumwal continued to compete hard, with Clay Howe and Harrison Jenner providing strong presence and drive around the ground.
The final term was a highlight for Tocumwal supporters, with the sides going goal-for-goal in an entertaining finish.
Tocumwal matched the premiers with four goals in the last, a clear sign of their determination and growing confidence against top-tier opposition.
Up forward, Liam Sutton was a standout, finishing with four goals in a strong performance.
Brayden Hall added three, while Sam Decicco with two and Brock Close also contributed to the scoreboard.
Tocumwal’s best included Kyle Maher, Liam Sutton, Ricky Gittens, Clay Howe, Harrison Jenner and skipper Jack Tyndall, all of whom led the way with effort, intensity and leadership.
The side will take many positives from their ability to respond under pressure and match it with the reigning premiers for extended periods.
With that level of effort and continued improvement, there is something for supporters to be excited about in the weeks ahead.
Final score: Tocumwal 10.12 (72) lt Katamatite 19.12 (126).
Awards: Harry Jenner, Sam Deccico, Liam Sutton
Reserves
The reserves turned up ready to play their hearts out but unfortunately couldn’t make the most of their opportunities in front of goal.
The effort and intent were there all day, showing the group is building nicely, and a win is close.
Most importantly, the players are enjoying their footy, playing for each other, and starting to gel as a team.
Final score: Tocumwal 5.9 (39) def by Katamatite 11.12 (78).
Best Players: Noah Sneddon, Will Law, Blair Eddy, Tex Flack, Trent Wade, Kane Wardlaw.
Goals: Kane Wardlaw 2, Trent Wade, Glyn Matters, Jay Buckley.
Awards: Noah Sneddon, Will Law, Tex Flack.
Thirds
The boys came prepared to take on Katty and started strongly, holding the lead at quarter time.
Katty got on top during the second quarter, but the young Bloods were able to settle in the second half and play some very good team footy.
With Chace Brunskill and Jake Hicks dominating through the middle, and skill and delivery into the forward line, the team were able to give Heath Mansell plenty of opportunities.
A big shout out once again to the fourths boys for helping out each week.
Final score: Tocumwal 12.7 (79) def Katamatite 3.3 (21).
Best players: Chace Brunskill, Jake Hicks, Archie Chellew, Heath Mansell, Ryder Loomes, Pheonix Valente.
Goals: Chace Brunskill 4, Heath Mansell 4, Harrison Wilson, Max Knight, Jake Hicks, Ollie East.
Awards: Jake Hicks, Archie Matters, Ryder Loomes, Heath Mansell, Chace Brunskill.
Fourths
The fourths came away with a strong win. Katamatite started the better side and were first to hit the scoreboard.
They also had a couple of momentum swings throughout the game, but the Toc boys stayed calm, stuck to the plan and worked their way back on top.
The midfield was consistent all day, giving plenty of drive and first use, while the backline stood tall and repeatedly repelled Katamatite’s forward entries.
Up forward, Archie Matters was dangerous all game, finishing with three goals.
Final score: Tocumwal 8.3 (51) def Katamatite 4.3 (27).
Best players: Charlie Wilson, Ollie East, Taylor Findlay, Gus Kruzinga, Brax Brunskill, Archie Matters
Goals: Archie Matters 3, Charlie Wilson, Sam Borg, Archie Bozzola, Blaine O’Donnell, Ollie East.
Awards: Jake Hicks, Archie Matters, Sam Borg, Henry Watmore.
Fifths
There is no better way to start the day than with the youngest Bloods having a run.
Awards: Thomas Braybon, Darcy Wilson.