Coaches Adrian Timmis and Dane Leyden worked hard through the week to gather the troops and field a competitive side against Picola United.
As usual, the mighty Redeyes rallied and pulled it together, playing some great defensive football.
Fighting for the jumper, they gave the feeling that if that was the best Picola could offer, they too would be sitting on the sidelines during finals with the rest of us come the pointy end of September.
Even though Blighty was several goals down at the first break, the Redeyes were certainly not out of the game. However, they struggled to get the ball past the half-forward line.
The Redeyes lost assistant coach Leyden and a few others, forcing the side to reduce the rotation.
In the end, it was just too tough a task to manage.
Kyel Bain stepped up with Henry Michael and Hugh Burton, but overall everyone gave their pound of flesh, leaving nothing in the tank and thoroughly deserving a couple of weeks off.
Final score: Blighty 1.0 (6) def by Picola 33.16 (214).
Reserves:
It was ball night, and you could feel the energy at the club as soon as you stepped out of the car.
Every single person had a smile on their face and seemed to be enjoying the day.
The reserves once again managed a side, which was a great effort as our club is experiencing a number of injuries.
It is a credit to all the boys who shaped up for two games and did it for the club without fuss.
It was a good game as the boys held off a finals side for the greater part of the day, not allowing themselves to be easily beaten.
Billy Lawes, Will Barnes, Cam MacDonald and Sam and Jai Dudley all continued to improve their game.
Johnny Mitchell and Zac and Brock Thompson all led the way.
Memorable moments included Paul Walter’s first goal in three years, and George Reid finally overcoming an injury to get back playing some good football.
Final score: Blighty 1.0 (6) def by Picola 23.18 (156).
Fourths:
Blighty hosted Picola United with rain threatening and a cold day. The Redeyes were ready to take the game on, but they struggled to match Picola’s size. Even with Tom Bull and Grace Macdonald coming in to help, we didn’t have the size to win the contested ball.
Kyah Watson had a great game, taking over head marks and keeping possession of the ball.
Liam Gordon continued supporting his team mates which was one of the team goals for the week and Ruby Gordon did some strong tackles.
This week Logan Andrews got best on ground for being strong in defence, trying all game and also doing all he was ask to do.
Milly Hamner took some great marks and moved into different roles throughout the game.
Jack Brown once again did some great tackles which was another job the team aimed to do.
Mitch Bain had a big game moving from fullback and into ruck. He was able to show his versatility in many positions.
The Redeyes have two byes in a row which will be good to have a little rest and get ready for a big finish to the season.
Final score: Blighty 0.0 (0) def by Picola 26.24 (180).
Fifths:
The fifths had a really good game against Picola. These kids are playing a great brand of football. Thanks to all the support these kids are getting from their supporters. It’s really appreciated by all. They love to hear you cheering them on. Best was Zane Sibraa Jack Brown and Blake Hunter. They all played well as a team. Great work, keep it up.
Final score: Not scored.