IN what could only be described as wet and soggy ground conditions forcing the game to be moved to the old Jubilee oval, Federals took on the unknown and unpredictable Beverley Football Club – a game Federals League side needed to win to ensure a second semi final berth for 2017.
RESERVES: This game started as an even contest with both sides throwing themselves into the play trying to force the ball forward towards their respective goals and at the first change Federals 2.2 held a slender six-point lead over arch rivals Beverley 1.2 and it seemed that the Redbacks were pulling out all stops. After the quarter-time address Federals stepped up a gear and adapted to the slippery ground conditions opening up the game, while Beverley began to struggle allowing the home side to kick a further 2.2 while only managing a point, taking the margin to 19 points in favour of Federals. The second half was all one-way traffic with Beverley unable to add to their half-time score while Federals added 5.5 to have a resounding win by a margin of 54. Final scores: Federals 9.9 (63) to Beverley 1.3 (9).
LEAGUE: This clash showed why both sides will figure well come finals time as both teams gave their all from start to finish in the trying conditions, neither being able to break away and take a handy lead. By the half-time break Beverley had managed a one-goal lead and the low scores indicated the amount of ground scrimmages taking place and the interchange benches getting a vigorous work out as players from both sides struggled in the heavy conditions; Half-time scores Beverley 2.4 to Federals 1.4. The third term was once again an even contest. Federals managed to outscore the Redbacks in this quarter but only by five points as neither side were unable to take an advantage. The final term had all spectators predicting the outcome of the game with Federals coming home with a slight wind advantage. But to Beverley’s credit they showed more experience and a greater last quarter team effort to repel Federals forward thrusts and take the ball forward kicking 4.2 to Federals 2.2, running out deserving winners by 13 points.
A special mention must go to the club and coaching staff for the way they are promoting the youth within the community, encouraging them to step up from junior ranks and when required, assisting them to play at a higher level. This is evident with the current ladder position of Federals reserves side and a number of players currently playing in Perth. AWARDS: Reserves: 1st Jack Drew; 2nd Kadyn Beazley; 3rd Luke Brennan; Coaches’ award Tom Malinowski. League: 1st Kaden Elliott; 2nd Jed Casey; 3rd Glen Smith; Coaches’ award Stephen Barnes. Netball: 1st Lisa Williamson; 2nd Tia Allardyce; 3rd Clara Garlett. Thanks to our sponsors for these awards.
