The final round of the first half of season 2017 was the most successful to date with six out of six wins. Three home games against Wanneroo were all crucial for top of the table spots. Our Drew Banfield Colts commenced the day's clashes against a good opponent and as expected, it was a tight game from the outset. However, the further the game progressed, the more North gained ascendancy over Wanneroo. North's flow on style and 'hard at the ball' attitude was a credit to the team, running out deserved winners: 11.7 (73) to 7.3 (45); and keeping their position in the top two. The B reserves continued the dominance over Wanneroo in a very tight encounter. It was one of their best performances, meeting every challenge and gradually drawing away from good opposition. A great team effort lads, where pressure was maintained and game plan successfully implemented, running out deserved winners, as well as maintaining top spot on the ladder: 8.6 (54) to 3.6 (24).
The day at home was wound up with a strong win by the League and a clear top position on the ladder, winning eight out of nine games in the first half of the season. North were the dominant team on the day and could have had an even larger margin but for a drop in intensity in the third quarter. Given a terse reminder by the coaching staff, North took full control of the final quarter, running away with a big win: 16.7 (103) to 7.6 (48). However, there is a half season to go so there is no time to relax and reflect on the past. Commitment, intensity and hardness at the ball will be needed even more in the remaining nine games as it is up to us to shape the outcomes we desire. Hard work on the track, committing to each other and availability, as well as drive for continued development and improvement will be needed.
The Thirds and Fourths travelled to Whitford knowing they were in first and second ladder position, respectively, whereas Whitford were at the other end. As expected both games were dominated by North. The Fourths set the scene with an emphatic win, being the far superior team. From the outset North skipped away with a handy lead. The longer the game proceeded, the wider grew the margin, eventually winning: 21.14 (140) to 3.1 (19). The Thirds game was no different where North's class and game style proved superior throughout the day. It was a class performance against a gallant opponent who tried hard, but could not make inroands in North's dominance. The final score: 19.7 (121) to 3.2 (20) was a clear indication. Well done to both teams!
The Brett Jones Colts were, once again, saddled with the task of playing away from home alone, this time against Wanneroo. It is very pleasing to see the lads developing each week and they continued to do so at the Wanneroo Show Grounds. North played well, as a team, and with a desire to come home victorious! They were rewarded with their efforts by a very good win: 11.7 (73) to 7.3 (45). A good overall team performance, which no doubt made the bus trip back to 'The Gil' a lot more enjoyable! Keep up the development lads!
The 'Big Day Out' was a great success with members of: the 2007 Colts champions; Sponsors; Life Members; Alliance Members; and the usual 'Maggie Army' families! Everyone had the opportunity to witness and savour the great football North were playing on the day! It was also an opportunity to share current and future Club directions, needs and aspirations...and the importance of 'support' from all quarters of North followers to continue development of players and football education across all teams, for current and future success. Great to see so many at the event! Many thanks to the 'Kezza - Sue' team and Eve in the Canteen for the delicious catering!