The last home and away games on Saturday realised 3 out of 6 wins, all impacting on finals participation for 2018. The League were outstanding in their clash against Swan Athletic. This time North were far more switched on and ruthless in their tackling, skills, ball movement and overall superior structures. In what was expected to be a close game, North took control from the first bounce and never relented right up to the final siren! An outstanding win giving North the right to host a home Qualifying Final on Saturday! North 14.10 (94) to Swan Athletic 5.5 (35).
The Reserves remained undefeated, which is an amazing effort! However, it was not an easy task against a very strong Swan Athletic, which appeared to have dropped a few of their League players into their reserves. As such the game was a real arm wrestle. Scores remained tight throughout! After a fairly average first half the Coach, once again, demanded more and inspired North to turn the game around. This they did with greater intensity in a half where the lead changed hands and either team could win. Swan Athletic managed to hit the front late in the final quarter, with only seconds to go and scores equal. In a huge effort, North swept the ball away from the wing with precision and shot it into the 50m circle, where it was sensationally marked by Ben Golding! The siren blasted, Ben remained calm and in control, slotting through the crucial point to win: North 8.3 (51) to Swan Athletic 7.8 (50).
D1 League & Reserves each had hard games against CBC, who were strong all year. CBC prevailed in both games to take the honours: D1 League 3.8 (26) to CBC 16.3 (99). The result saw North slip from 2nd to 3rd on the ladder. This keeps North in the finals, with an away rematch against CBC. (Venue TBA). Despite losing, the D1 Reserves must be acknowledged for their continued efforts throughout the season where sufficient numbers and support waned considerably. While they are out of the finals, they gave their best! North 4-4 (28) to CBC 17.7 (109).
While our Colts teams lost on Saturday, both can hold their head high! Drew Banfield Colts were up against a strong Swan Athletic team, perched at the top of the ladder. Unlike their first clash, when North were totally overwhelmed, Saturday we saw a different North Freo who challenged from the outset and kept scores close during the first half. But it was Swan Athletic who lifted to dominate the remainder of the game. North 2-4 (16) to Swan Athletic 8.9 (57). By minimising the margin, North retained their fifth spot in the finals on percentage! A terrific effort lads. They now face West Coast in an away game next week! (Venue TBA.) Well done lads! The Brett Jones Colts were out of finals contention and played their last game against Collegians. North wanted as to end the season on a winning note. What they achieved was quite remarkable! North had total control throughout the game, absolutely smashing their opposition and running away with a massive win, the highest of all our weekend games: North 24.13 (157) to Collegians 3.0 (18). Congratulations lads and to all concerned!!
Home League Qualifying Final This Saturday 18 August 2018: North Fremantle versus Whitford
We are asking the ‘Maggie Army’ to come out in BIG numbers to support our game against Whitford! We would love to see you all there; Sponsors; Life Members; Alliance Members; past players; supporters; families; etc. Our lads have done you proud throughout the year. Now is the time to show your appreciation by being there Saturday!!