The Tocumwal Bloods travelled to face the undefeated powerhouse Waaia on Saturday, fully aware of the challenge ahead.
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With injuries plaguing the senior list, the Bloods fielded a significantly reshuffled side, including six under-17s who stepped up to fill the void.
Despite the daunting task against the competition’s benchmark, Tocumwal embraced the opportunity with bravery, unity, and an unshakeable commitment to each other.
From the first bounce, Waaia’s class and experience were on show.
They moved the ball with precision and punished turnovers swiftly, capitalising on their clean ball use and polished forward structure.
But to Tocumwal’s credit, the side never took a backward step.
While the scoreboard told one story, the real narrative was one of courage, development, and the emergence of a new generation of Bloods.
Flynn Tonks continued to show why he’s one of the most dangerous forwards in red and white, fighting hard for every contest and eventually converting Tocumwal’s lone goal with a composed finish under heavy pressure.
His ability to find space and compete in the air was commendable, particularly with limited delivery going forward.
The midfield brigade worked tirelessly all afternoon, with Lachlan McDonald once again setting the standard for toughness and tenacity around the ball.
His physicality and desperation in the contest were unwavering, providing inspiration for teammates young and old.
Brayden Hall and Judd Barnes also battled gamely through the centre, both standing up under the weight of repeated Waaia entries and keeping the fight alive at stoppages.
Adam Kent was again strong in the ruck contests, helping to quell Waaia’s surges.
Kyle Keenan laid countless tackles and chased hard all day, showing real heart and determination.
Harvey White was another who stood tall in trying conditions, applied himself defensively, and never shied away from the contest.
A proud moment for the Tocumwal Football Netball Club came in the form of Declan Palmer, who pulled on the senior jumper for the very first time.
In what was a significant personal milestone and a genuine reward for his consistent effort and commitment, Declan played with spirit and composure well beyond his years.
His debut earned him the Farmer's Arms Award, a fitting acknowledgment of a young man beginning what, we hope, will be a long senior career.
The Rivergarden Chinese Award was presented to Jake Hicks, who showed outstanding composure in the back half.
Chase Brunskill was recognised with the Baldwin Buses Award for his relentless pressure, tireless running, and refusal to give up - even when the game was within reach.
While Waaia’s dominance was undeniable, the true highlight for Tocumwal was the emergence of the club’s next generation.
With six under-17 players given the opportunity to step up to senior footy, the young Bloods not only held their own—they led the charge.
Their enthusiasm, willingness to compete, and desire to earn their place was infectious and showed that the future of the club is in very capable hands.
Games like these, though tough on the scoreboard, are crucial in building resilience and shaping a team’s character.
Tocumwal may have walked off with a loss, but they gained something much more important: experience, growth, and the confidence that the group is moving in the right direction.
With key players set to return in the coming weeks and the next generation now blooded, the Bloods will continue to build towards a stronger, more united team.
There are plenty of positives to take forward, and the spirit shown on Saturday is what this club is all about: loyalty, resilience, and pride in the jumper.
Well done to all players, especially our young debutants.
Your effort did not go unnoticed. Let’s carry that fight into next game and keep moving forward, together.
Final Score: Tocumwal 1.2 (8) def by Waaia 22.16 (148).
Reserves
The Reserves came up against a red-hot Waaia outfit, who sit undefeated on top of the ladder.
With a depleted side, it was always going to be a tough day at the office, and the result reflected that.
Glyn Matters kicked our sole goal, and despite the scoreboard, the boys fought hard all day and never dropped their heads.
Final score: Tocumwal 1.1 (7) def by Waaia 22.10 (142).
Goal: Glyn Matters.
Best players: A Lukies, G Matters, K Wardlaw, D Eddy, J Wapshott, W O’Connell.
Thirds
No game as Waaia does not have a thirds team.
Fourths
It was a dominant display from the fourths this week, bouncing back in a big way after last round’s tough outing.
The scoreboard tells the story - a commanding four-quarter performance against a young Waaia side.
While it wasn’t an even match-up on the day, our boys were in the same position last week, and it felt good to be back on the winners’ board.
Final score: Tocumwal 24.12 (156) def Waaia 0.0 (0).
Goals: Harrison Wilson 8, Charlie Wilson 5, Archie Matters 4, Archie Chellew 3, Jack Watson 2, Archie Bozzola.
Best players and awards: H Wilson, O East, B Koopman, C Wilson, A Chellew, A Bozzola.
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