Tocumwal delivered one of its most exciting and spirited performances of the season, pushing Strathmerton all the way before going down in a hard-fought contest on Saturday.
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Only 16 points separated the teams at the final siren.
The opening term didn’t go Tocumwal’s way, with Strathmerton coming out full of run and precision, piling on six unanswered goals.
The visitors capitalised on early opportunities and made the most of their forward entries, putting the Bloods under immediate scoreboard pressure.
But what followed was a response that showcased Tocumwal’s character, resilience and growing confidence.
The second quarter was nothing short of electric. With a lift in intensity around the contest and cleaner ball movement, Tocumwal stormed back into the game in breathtaking fashion.
Led by the drive and composure of captain Jack Tyndall, along with the class of Kyle Maher and the impact of Ricky Gittens, the Bloods piled on seven goals in their best quarter of the season.
The home crowd was brought to life as Tocumwal surged forward repeatedly, turning defence into attack with purpose and energy.
From that point on, the game settled into a fierce and even battle. Both sides traded goals through the second half, with neither able to fully break the contest open.
Tocumwal continued to apply pressure and create opportunities, but Strathmerton’s ability to steady at key moments ensured they maintained a narrow lead.
To Tocumwal’s credit, the effort never wavered.
Players worked tirelessly across all lines, with strong defensive efforts and repeated midfield contests keeping the game alive right until the final stages.
It was a genuine four-quarter performance against a quality opposition.
Up forward, Liam Sutton led the scoring with three goals, presenting strongly all day.
Ricky Gittens added two in an influential display, while Brayden Hall, Chase Hardwidge, Logan White, Hayden Davis, Jack Tyndall and Brock Close each contributed a goal in a well-rounded team effort.
Among Tocumwal’s best were Kyle Maher, Ricky Gittens and Brayden Hall, all of whom had a strong impact across the ground.
Nick Egan and Adam Kent provided important contributions, while skipper Jack Tyndall once again led from the front with determination, composure and leadership.
While the result didn’t fall their way, the performance was full of positives.
Tocumwal showed they can match it with quality sides for extended periods and, most importantly, demonstrated the belief and connection needed to compete at a high level.
Awards reflected some of the day’s standout contributors, and went to Nick Egan, Hayden Davis and Sam Hatty.
There is a real sense that Tocumwal is building momentum, and if this performance is anything to go by, supporters have plenty to look forward to in the weeks ahead.
Final score: Tocumwal 11.6 (72) to Strathmerton 13.10 (88).
Goals: Liam Sutton 3, Ricky Gittens 2, Brayden Hall, Logan White, Chase Hardwidge.
Reserves
The reserves faced a tough contest but couldn’t quite match it with the scoreboard, going down by 33 points.
Despite the result, there were some strong individual performances.
Once again, inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly, with missed opportunities making it difficult to stay in the game.
It’s an area the group will look to tidy up as they continue to build.
Plenty to work on heading into next week, but the effort and intent were there.
Final score: Tocumwal 3.7 (25) def by Strathmerton 9.4 (58).
Best: Hunter Groutsch, Max O’Neill, Dylan Maxwell, Declan Palmer, Cody Palmer, Trent Wade.
Goals: Tom Hatty, Rory Shepherd, Caleb Johnson.
Awards: Hunter Groutsch, Dylan Maxwell, Max O’Neill.
Thirds
The thirds faced a tough outing, going down by 74 points.
With just 10 players this week, it was always going to be a big challenge, but the effort and determination couldn’t be questioned.
A big thank you to the fourths players who stepped up to help.
Despite the result, the group continued to compete and showed plenty of resilience across the game.
Final score: Tocumwal 2.2 (14) def by Strathmerton 13.10 (88).
Best: Phoenix Valente, Jake Hicks, Chace Brunskill, Charlie Wilson, Sean Lykissas, Archie Chellew.
Goals: Chace Brunskill, Cooper Quick.
Awards: Jake Hicks, Chace Brunskill, Hamish Lucas, Phoenix Valente, Charlie Wilson.
Fourths
The side made it four on the trot with a dominant performance, keeping Strathy scoreless in a 39 point victory.
The on-ball brigade were once again outstanding, controlling the game from the middle and giving the forwards every opportunity.
A complete team effort, with strong pressure and defensive work ensuring Strathy couldn’t get on the scoreboard.
The momentum continues to build for this group.
Final score: Tocumwal 6.3 (39) def Strathmerton 0.0 (0).
Best: Ollie East, Angus Kruzinga, Brax Brunskill, Charlie Wilson, Lucas Grieves, Sam Borg.
Goals: Archie Matters 2, Sam Borg 2, Archie Bozzola, Charlie Wilson.
Awards: Gus Kruzinga, Lewis Petersen, Henry Tuck, Ashton Taylor, Lucas Bell.
Fifths
The youngest Bloods ran out ready to take on Strathmerton, and what a great effort it was.
The boys and girls are finding their confidence and rhythm and from the first bounce to the final whistle, their sportsmanship and determination shone through.
They’re learning, growing, and backing each other every step of the way, and it’s exciting to watch.
They’re shaping up to be a fantastic little team.
Final score: Not scored.
Awards: Darcy Watt, Archie Baldwin.