21 May 2021
Yesterday, was the Under 15 AFL Gala Day. It was a chance school teams across the region to play off against each other to determine who will move on to regionals. MRHS got off to a flying start, but unfortunately, were knocked out of the competition in the last match of the day.
Things were off to a fine start at the Exies Sports Club with an early victory over Marion (13 – 3) followed by a big win over Narrandera High School (44 – 16). The team met their match and then some against St Francis with a loss of 60 – 6.
Once again, team captain Broden Spencer proved himself an asset on the field across all three of the games. His ability to read the ball and make a contest in every situation saved certain scoring opportunities throughout the day.
Bailey Morrisey was outstanding in the first match, playing out of the middle for the entire game. He managed to kick one of the MRHS goals and was just as reliable in defence. He showed great work ethic and took a contested mark and turned it into forward momentum for the team.
Willem Vaessen was the pick of the players in the second game against Narrandera. He was set the specific task of marking a rival forward, who stood out in their earlier game. He managed to play one of the best man on man games the team has seen, consistently spoiling his mark’s ability to get his hands on the ball.
When asked about the game, coach David Crelley said “I could not have more proud of the performance of the team over the course of the day. Even in the final when we were outgunned by a well drilled side who had the luxury of resting their top end players in earlier games, the boys from MRHS never gave up and continued to make a contest of the game. With half the team consisting of Year 8 students and three Year 7s, AFL has a very bright future in our school. Congratulations to all players and to the parents who were able to attend and support their boys.”
