The Under 14 Hawks enjoyed the return of rep player Joe Verney and the (short-lived) return of Lane Fleming who returned from injury.
This was a much anticipated match as the Hawks were always going to give Uni a hard game.
After a slow start the midfield started to take control – led by Travis Sheahan, Lane Fleming and Tyson Hagiel. The second quarter was an arm wrestle – fought out mostly between the two back lines – with the Hawks the slim winners of the tussle at half time thanks to Gus McLaughlin, Jens Springborg and Zoe Naismith.
In the third quarter (Premiership Quarter) Gundy pulled into the lead with six goals and six behinds scored in the quarter. The last quarter was nerve racking as Lane Fleming received an injury and was unable to continue playing.
Hawks only scored two goals and in return Uni kicked six, but the Hawks came away as the ultimate winners. This was a well deserved and hard fought win. With a full complement of players this U14 team is proving very competitive.
Full Time Score - Goondiwindi 13.14.92 defeated University 10.3.63 Goal kickers: Joe Verney 8, Jens Springborg 2, Matthew North 1, Lachlan Tulloch 1, Travis Sheahan 1. Best Players: Joe Verney, Tyson Hagiel, Jens Springborg, Lane Fleming and Kris Tillack. Royal Hotel Awards went to Jens Springborg and Amy Leahy, with the AFL Award going to Beth McLaughlin.
For the second year, University and Goondiwindi selected their opponents “Best On” and at the conclusion of each game, the Coaches Trophies were announced.
The Goondiwindi recipients were Dylan Politis in Under 12’s and Joe Verney in Under 14’s. Congratulations also to three young Hawks who have taken the initiative to begin their Umpire Training – well done Joel Barr, Lachlan Smith and Joe Verney.