With Federals reserves keen to cement top spot on the ladder and the league pushing to finish in the top two, continual wins over the last four rounds for the top four sides, starting against the talented Beverley Redbacks, was of upmost importance.
The reserves game saw Federals out of the blocks with blistering speed sending the ball into the forward area at a rapid pace, catching the Beverley Redbacks off guard and restricting their scoring opportunities to a minimum, resulting in a handy 25-point lead at the first break. This early lead only spurred Federals on in the second term and they continued to hammer home the advantage and by half-time the lead had blown out to 42 points: Federals 7.9 to Beverley 1.4.
After the long break the last two quarters unfortunately belonged to Federals as they piled on a further 10 goals, 9 points and restricted Beverley to the smallest denominator to run out comfortable winners by 110 points: Federals 17.18 to Beverley 1.4.
The league encounter was a must win for Federals as the three sides below league leaders Kella/Tammin fight it out to grab a guernsey for the second semi final and the double chance at this year’s premiership. Federals, usually renowned for their slow starts, were out of the starting blocks like a space shuttle leaving Cape Canaveral, with all players on board making a concerted effort to force Beverley to turn the ball over. This certainly worked, as Federals had the majority possessions of the ball, allowing them to establish a handy lead in the first two quarters to go in at half-time with a 27-point advantage.
The second half saw Federals continue on their merry way with continual hard at the ball attitude and superior leg speed; and if not for goal front errors the final margin could have far greater as they extended their lead at each change to run out eventual winners by 58 points: Federals 15.18 to Beverley 7.8.
Awards: Reserves – 1st Sterling Hayden; 2nd Kadyn Beazley; 3rd Zeke Kennedy; Coaches: Zeki Allardyce. League – 1st Lachlan Dunkerton; 2nd Alex Moreno; 3rd Mitchell Henry; Coaches: Lous Henry.
NETBALL: Unfortunately, with last minute player withdrawals Federals Fillies fielded the best team available to put up a gallant effort against the Beverley Redbacks, going down by 12 goals (40 to 52). To all who stepped up, thank you on behalf of the Club. After speaking to Lisa who puts in a huge amount of effort and time it is disappointing that people with prior commitments or unable to play don’t notify her sooner so other players can be sourced.
Awards: 1st Lisa Williamson; 2nd Stacey Hunter; 3rd Tara Bishop.
