Island juniors face chilly conditions
This week's Island junior football reports.
U14 Red
The Island's U14 Reds faced Kilcunda Bass in wet and cold conditions.
The Island dominated throughout the first 10 minutes, Archer Bailey-Cox led the midfield and Dexter Goodall excelled in the ruck despite his size disadvantage.
Captain Jackson Allan displayed his skills off half-back, providing a strong attacking threat.
Zane Larsson and the midfield group maintained intense pressure, with Archie Robinson and Oscar Tuchtan solid in defence. The first quarter ended 1-1.
As the second quarter rolled on, the Island's relentless pressure made it difficult for Bass to advance.
Dexter, Zane, Gemma and Archer's tackling was strong, and Robbo and Jacko effectively transitioned the ball forward.
Bass were able to get a late goal and led 10-2 at half-time.
Spencer Smith impressed in the third quarter with a clean play in the ruck.
Zane and Archer continued their aggressive midfield efforts, and Robbo excelled in the forward line.
Despite Phillip Island's efforts, Bass scored late (19-3).
In the final quarter, Jacko and Spencer led the team with their commitment and physicality, but with fewer players on the bench, Bass capitalised.
Despite the loss, Phillip Island's physicality and pressure were standout features.
Several U12 players assisted making for a fantastic effort that is greatly appreciated by the team.
Scores: Phillip Island Red: 0.3.3. Kilcunda Bass: 7.8.50.
Best players: Jackson Allan, Zane Larsson, Spencer Smith, Dexter Goodall, Kai Sturt and Oscar Tuchtan.
U12 Red
Scores: Phillip Island Red: 3.4.22. Kilcunda Bass: 3.7.25.
Goals: Archie Dallinger, Johnny Rizzo and Flynn Riley - 1.
Best players: Aiden Smith, Oliver Hellmuth-Pask, Tijian Coldora, Charles Cameron, Flynn Doig and Johnny Rizzo.
U12 Blue
The Island pups took on the Korumburra Giants at the kennel on Sunday with Captain Riley inspiring his troops before they ran out.
Jaxon, Kash and Zac worked tirelessly in the middle creating several chances up forward.
The pups were the first to hit the scoreboard after Liam stuck a great tackle, giving him a set shot which he converted.
Taj, Robbo, Rocco and Robin were solid in defence and Ry, Archer and Joel provided options all over the ground.
The Giants scored a goal and the game was on, turning into an arm wrestle which suited the tenacious Bowie.
Taj put on a brilliant display of overhead marking and penetrating kicking as the game got tight.
Max and Otis laid important tackles late in the game and the Island pups held on leading them to a win.
Scores: Phillip Island Blue: 1.4.10. Korumburra Bena: 1.1.7.
Goals: Liam Cleary - 1.
Best players: Jaxon Summerfield, Liam Cleary, Otis Joyner, Max Carville and Robin Bodaan.
U10 Red
Under the leadership of Captain Eliza, the Island's U10 Reds delivered their best performance of the year.
Ashton dominated in the ruck, while Lenny expertly set up goals.
Rylan showcased his strength in attacking the ball and Noah scored an impressive three goals.
Awards: Ashton, Tanner, Alfie and Billy (whom a special mention goes to as he departs a for a big family holiday, he has proved an essential and strong member of the team).
U10 Blue
The heavens cleared just in time for Captain Eddie to lead the Island onto the ground to face Korumburra Bena.
The pups dominated early, controlling the midfield with strong performances by Leith and Sam resulting in lots of action in the forward line.
Ethan's mark and quick snap secured the first goal, which was followed quickly by another from William.
Centre clearances from Eddie, Ryden's forward positioning and teamwork in the forward line resulted in Levi bagging three goals in the second.
Tate and Logan gave solid support in perfect formation on the wings.
Despite Korumburra Bena's dominance in the third, the pups' hardworking defence - led by Leith and Ethan - managed to keep them to a single goal.
Eddie's overhead marks and deliveries to Sam in the forward line proved a highlight, along with Ethan's chase and flying tackle.
Awards: Eddie, Ethan, Ryden and Tate.
Youth Girls
Scores: Phillip Island: 6.0.36. Warranor: 6.6.42.
Goals: Jade Ricardo - 2.