A Grade Round 12

Whitford 13.7 def University 10.6
The UFC A-Grade had been in a rich vein of form coming into this fixture … and then decided to not play football for the first 50 minutes of the game against Whitford on Saturday.  As has been the case a number of times this year the lights just went out upstairs and the lads forgot what makes them an excellent unit when up and running, being hard work and smart footy.  It would have been a lot uglier at half time were it not for very solid performances from Dyl Grogan, Junior, Wiesey and Hoggy.  To the lads’ credit the second half was much improved.  It left a bitter taste after the game knowing that we played about 20 minutes of UFC footy and got back to within a few goals. Best players were Wiese, Hogg, Junior, Grogan and Crudman.

From the President - A special mention to Matthew Breen for being Uni’s sole representative in the WAAFL U/23’s recent match against South Australia. WA lost the match by two points (by the way, don’t ask me what players like Cruddy needed to do to get a game in that team).

A Reserves Round 12

Whitford 5.8 def University 3.7
On a day when the boys needed to turn up and fight for a spot in the finals, this was a disappointing result. Uni started slowly and barely got going for the entire match. A lack of skills and endeavour in the first half cost the team badly in a tight, hard fought contest and we found ourselves down by three goals at half time. A particular area of concern was the forward line where the boys were struggling to make the most of some crucial chances. Special credit must go the backline, particularly with Blair, Kaysy, Jack Lucas and Stretts all holding down their positions well in the opening half. After half time, the boys responded and and drew back within one point with seven minutes to go. Unfortunately, a costly 50m penalty and two cheap easy goals were the difference in the game. Going to have to roll the dice and get some confidence back to finish the season.

A Colts Round 12

Whitford 2.5 def by University 20.18
The A-Colts were coming into an important Uni holiday game with just 18 men, although a fair proportion of these were still from our best ten players. The coaches stressed how integral these games are to the season, and how much sweeter the victories are when under-manned.  The boys did not disappoint. From the first bounce every player was switched on, with many clinical displays of ball movement, the boys went in at quarter time seven goals up. The onslaught didn’t stop, with Uni smashing Whitford even when kicking into the breeze, and showing the coaches what they could really achieve when under pressure.

Tyler Cauldwell was best-on-ground with a fast and skillful display through midfield and half forward, Caldow Jr kicked seven goals, Delroy kicked six, and the first-gamer Grug showed he belongs at this level. Next week we lose four more players to holidays, so will be another test of depth for the Colts squad.

From the President - Congratulations to Harry Donovan and Jarrad Stewart who who selected in the combined WAAFL Colts team that enjoyed a recent win over the State 16’s. Well done!