SEAGULLS START PRACTICE MATCH SERIES IN POSITIVE MANNER
Barwon Heads kicked off its 2020 campaign in a six quarter game against GFL club South Barwon on Thursday night at Oakdene Oval Estate.
In cool blustery conditions the Heads had first use of the breeze and were quick to attack but inaccurate kicking for goal was prevalent. Up back the returning Cody “Sherriff” Diana was strong in defence and had great support from Nick Avery, Charlie Hurst and Harry Walker. The midfield of Ned
Aulsebrook, Logan Mitchell, Mitch Herbison, Noah Young, Oscar Young, Matty Dyer and Sam Torpy were busy and we were able to kick three opening goals through Herbi (1) and recruit Zach Wright (2). The Swans kicked a goal through a 50 metre penalty.
The second quarter saw South Barwon with the breeze but the Heads continued to attack with Sam “91” Everett, Braeden Eddy, BJ, Dylan O’Leary, Tim Chapman and Michael Philp all busy. South Barwon kicked a goal but the defence led by Damien Horbury, Lachie Huismann, Bill Pelham, Tyson Bock, Soxy and Kyle Polley stood firm to keep them to only 2 goals. The Heads were able to kick two into the breeze with Wright kicking his third and the impressive Hurst also hitting the scoreboard.
The third quarter saw the Heads dominate with Brock Close kicking 3 majors whilst restricting South Barwon to a single behind. New players continued to be introduced as both sides kicked two goals apiece in the fourth quarter. Dom Booth, Tom Douglas, Jordan Kinsey, Mason Fraser, Nic McMahon, Brad Slorach, Jake Stainsby, Lachie Reekie and Carl Poluleuligaga were all introduced into the game whilst Colts players Matthew Hartley, Noah McGregor-Dawson and big Jarah Green experienced football at senior level for the first time.
In fading light South Barwon kicked the final 4 goals in the game to reduce the final margin to one goal.
Barwon Heads 3.5 5.6 8.7 10.7 11.7 11.7 (73)
South Barwon 1.0 3.1 3.2 5.5 6.7 10.7 (67)
GOALKICKERS : Close 4, Wright 3, Hurst 2, Herbison 1, McMahon 1
Post game all 37 players reported a clean bill of health and now we look forward to our next practice game against University Blacks to be played on Saturday 14th March at home with the reserves commencing at 12.00 noon and Seniors at 2.00pm.
It is expected that a number of players will kick off their 2020 season against University Blacks.