Tocumwal produced a determined second-half performance but were unable to overcome an early deficit, going down to Berrigan Saints by 44 points in their away clash on Saturday.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The Saints came out with high intensity and made the most of their opportunities in the opening half, building a commanding seven-goal advantage by the main break.
Their pressure around the contest and ability to convert scoring chances placed Tocumwal under constant pressure and gave the home side a strong platform heading into the second half.
Despite facing a significant half-time deficit, the Bloods refused to let the game slip away.
To Tocumwal’s credit, they responded with renewed energy and determination after the main break, matching the Saints for the remainder of the contest.
The second half was played on even terms, with both teams adding 3.5 in an entertaining display of football.
While Berrigan maintained their lead, the Bloods showed consistent fight and resilience, refusing to lower their colours and continuing to contest every possession until the final siren.
The improved second half effort highlighted the character of the playing group, with players lifting their intensity around the contest and working hard for one another.
It was the type of response coaches look for when challenged, and one that provides so many positives despite the final result.
Chase Hardwidge was outstanding for Tocumwal, leading the way with another tireless four-quarter performance.
Kyle Maher again provided drive from the backline, while Hayden Davis continued his impressive form with his work rate and ball use.
Captain Jack Tyndall led by example, never giving in despite the scoreboard pressure, while Nick Egan and Reid Crowe were strong contributors across the ground.
Up forward, Brock Close and Brayden Hall each kicked two goals to provide the main avenues to goal.
Captain Jack Tyndall, Reid Crowe and Hayden Davis each added a major in a shared scoring effort.
Although disappointed with the result, Tocumwal can take encouragement from the way they responded after half-time.
Matching a quality Berrigan outfit in the second half demonstrated the group’s resilience and highlighted the improvement that continues to develop throughout the season.
Final score: Berrigan 12.18 (90) def Tocumwal 7.4 (46).
Toc goals: Brock Close 2, Brayden Hall 2, Jack Tyndall 1, Reid Crowe 1, and Hayden Davis 1.
Toc best: Chase Hardwidge, Kyle Maher, Hayden Davis, Jack Tyndall, Nick Egan, and Reid Crowe.
Toc awards: Chase Hardwidge, Hayden Davis, and Chace Brunskill.
Reserves
It was a dominant four-quarter performance from the Bloods, controlling the game from the opening bounce.
They moved the ball well, shared the scoring around and applied consistent pressure all day, making the most of their opportunities in front of goal to record a convincing win heading into the bye.
Final score: Tocumwal 18.15 (123) def Berrigan 1.1 (7).
Toc goals: Jordy Findlay 4, Kane Wardlaw 3, Caleb Johnson 3, Rory Shepherd 2, Josh Mosman, Trent Wade, Dylan Maxwell, Tom Hatty, Will Law.
Toc best: Jeremy Cardillo, Kane Wardlaw, Hunter Groutsch, Glyn Matters, Josh Mosman, Rory Shepherd.
Toc awards: Caleb Johnson, Sam Bennett, and Will Law.
Thirds
The boys started the game well and matched Berrigan early but couldn’t maintain that intensity as the contest wore on.
Skill errors and missed opportunities made it difficult to build any momentum.
The group will reset over the bye and look to bounce back with a stronger performance in Round 13.
Final score: Tocumwal 2.0 (12) def by Berrigan 10.8 (68).
Toc best: Cooper Quick, Chace Brunskill, Heath Mansell, Sean Lykissas, Brax Brunskill, and Cale Murphy.
Toc goals: Chace Brunskill, and Archie Chellew.
Toc awards: Chace Brunskill, Heath Mansell, Brax Brunskill, Sean Lykissas, and Cooper Quick.
Fourths
The boys responded well after last week’s slow start, bringing intensity from the opening bounce and setting the tone early. They played clean, disciplined football, won the contested ball, and applied plenty of pressure.
Berrigan put plenty of attention into trying to negate some of Toc’s key players, but it only highlighted the depth across the side, with others stepping up and making an impact.
It was also pleasing to see the younger boys confidently play their role and contribute throughout the game in a strong all-round team performance.
Final score: Tocumwal 9.4 (58) def Berrigan 0.0 (0).
Toc best: Ollie East, Brax Brunskill, Lucas Grieves, Charlie Wilson, Joel Harrison, and Lewis Petersen
Toc goals: Archie Matters 3, Joel Harrison 2, Austin Watt, Charlie Wilson, Blaine O’Donnell, and Patrick Taylor
Toc awards: Archie Bozzola, Austin Watt, Parker Boaden, Ashton Griffs, and Brax Brunskill.
Fifths
With the sun shining and plenty of smiles around, the fifths enjoyed another great morning of footy.
It was all about having fun, developing skills and being great teammates, with everyone getting involved and enjoying their football.
Toc awards: George Tuck, and Jimmy Crawford.