Football returned to the Northern Rivers on Friday night, with Robina Kangaroos hosting the Lismore Swans in the season opener. Months of preseason training and preperation were put to the test as both sides fielded two grades for the first time in the QAFA (B) South competition.
Reserve Grade:
In a ten a side match played over two 25 minute halves, Lismore narrowly went down to a competitive outfit from Robina: 4 - 7 - 49 to 5 - 5 - 35. With several senior players backing up to ensure the game could procede, several new Swannies had their first ever kick in the red and white jumper and instatnly impressed. Brothers Jeremy Penfold and Mick Gardner were influential in their first hit out and club favorite Thomas Hatchman showed he is up for the contest, getting in and under the pack and very nearly scoring his first goal in footy. Special mention should be made of Mick Howard's two goals, scored despite nursing a hamstring injury and Zach Cottam's hard running and superb goal. The 'Magoos', as the Reserve grade side is affectionately known, thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to have a hit out and are thankful for the effort of the Robina club in getting a side together for the night.
Senior Grade:
After a comprehensive preseason under Senior Coach Joe Mitchell and his able assistant Shawn Holland, the boys were hopeful of a good showing against the Robina Kangaroos. With a few omissions due to injuries and unavailabilities, as well as a few boys tired from having an extra kick in the Reserve grade game, the Swans fought resiliently with their backs against the wall against a strong and physcial opposition. After a strong start, the Swans were looking good, taking a four goal advantage into the long break. Andy James had the ball on the string for the Swans in the first half, while ruck duo Scott 'Tower' Wright and Brodie Calvert showed what a dangerous duo they've become, winning the majority of hit outs through out the night.
Having learned the club mantras of 'pressure with presence' and 'be resilient', the boys fought hard to maintain their lead and finished on top with an 11 - 6 - 72 to 8 - 4 - 52 victory. Dean Webb made a welcome return up forward with four goals while Will Alexander popped up with two majors.
With many players set to return for this weeks clash against the Ballina Bombers at Mortimer oval, the Swans are looking very dangerous early on.
Last Modified on 07/04/2014 13:35