By James Newton, Esq.
A horrible July meant that the 3s needed a 240 point win against St. Bedes to feature in the September action. A scratchy performance saw us fall 190 points short of our objective but still ensured that the 3s finished the season as winners.
Spurred by the presence of the super-sub’s sister, Paddy Levy added another year to his contract with a polished display across half-back. Pete Kennon, another non-training European stud, produced a virtuoso performance of precision kicking and attempted high marking while Tom Lackmann’s clunking was reminiscent of Judas Bennett in his pomp.
Ego was definitely not a dirty word up forward as self-proclaimed ‘RUPH King’ Tom Healey sent ripples through the aquarium with his patented erratic disposal while the Brazil-bound Slippery Eel gave the fans a customary taste of his best and worst with nothing conventional in between.
The Bashed Brothers, John Cooper and Toby Dickson were resolute again and Sportingbet B&F market mover Chris Stubbe was his customary bustling self as he won the hard footy and told some senior members of the team that their time had come. Rising star nominee Moose Yencken signed off the season with another dominant game in the ruck while Aaron Gregory gave the umpires a farewell blast and was at last brought into line with a yellow card, in short there were feel-good stories everywhere.
Our two late signings, reigning Clubbies best and fairest winner Andy Ray and 17th placed George ‘the Crumpet’ Hanger both played important roles and all the boys were very grateful to them for sacrificing their Friday night and Saturday morning to help us out.
It is impossible not to feel that our season has been unfairly cut short. To finish fifth on percentage when we were 8 and 1 at the turn is indeed a big disappointment but many players can be rightly proud of the contribution they made this season, both to the 3rds and the 2nds. Some real talent has been unearthed this year and there is a bright future ahead.
The final paragraph for season 2011 is devoted to our coach, recruiter and one of the best impact players in the VAFA – Chris Jenkins. Footy clubs depend upon the selfless dedication of men like Jenks and we have been very lucky to have him look after us this year.
Goal Kickers: A. Ray 4, S. Petsinis 4, T. Healey 3, T. Lackmann 2, N. Russell 2
Best Players: P. Levy, N. Russell, J. Slade, A. Ray, P. Kennon, N. Yenken