The Dolphins headed to Gympie for strong competition.
Under 14s by lock Toby Eller
Noosa Dolphins 14 defeated by Maroochydore Swans 40
It was great to be back on field after time away due to byes, the weather and school holidays. The grounds were soggy after an overnight shower at Albert Park in Gympie. The first half went all of Maroochydore’s way and it was 26 to nil at half time.
With an inspirational talk from our coaching team during the break in play, we were a team with a different attitude for the second half. We went try for try and conversion for conversion with the Swans, with both teams scoring 14 points through the half, but unfortunately it was too late in the game and Maroochydore beat us by 26 points.
This week the team wore black arm bands as a sign of respect for the passing of our coach’s dad. Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match was Adrian de Klerk.
Under 12s by Ash Eller
Noosa Dolphins 38 defeated Caloundra 19
The match got off to a fast start after Caloundra decided to kick off and Noosa went straight in with some hard runs to gain valuable metres. Noosa then pulled out a set attacking move hoping to get around the Caloundra defensive line to be the first team to score, but unfortunately the ball was stripped by the Caloundra defence. Two phases later, Noosa managed to strip the ball back, then Caloundra faced a penalty, allowing Noosa to catch Caloundra off side and gain crucial ground. Noosa scored the first try of the match and slotted the conversion straight over the black dot.
The forwards did very well at sealing the ball which limited Caloundra’s opportunities to get it. This opened up the field for the backs to do some set plays and moves that they have been focusing on at training, and the scoring fest began. A great game with plenty of action and excitement for the crowd watching beside the Bruce Highway, with even a few trucks adding their appreciation as they passed by. Domino’s Pizza Players of the Match were Alex Bingham and Jack Shaw.
Under 11s
We had an early game in Gympie on a cold winter’s day, but the boys brought the heat. We were treated with much-improved ball retention and drive at the breakdowns. This led to an early try to Matthew Brook who was tireless again all game, as was pretty much everyone on the field.
Our boys continually stretched the Swans defence, leading to further tries to Victor Hiemstra and Will Stewart. Special mention to the forwards who put in a big effort and our wingers Charlie, Riley and Harry who were the big improvers this week. The Dolphins kept the Swans scoreless which shows the strength of our defence throughout the game. Great match and great teamwork.
U10s
After a cancellation from the Fins’ opposition, Reds and Fins headed to Gympie to share a half game against the Saints. The Reds were up first and played a solid Saints outfit with a few powerful and big kids in their pack.
In a half we witnessed some great attacking plays by Kai and Max which resulted in tries. Some strong defence by Raf and Cooper kept the score tight heading into half time.
The Fins entered the battle in the second half. In what always shapes up as a highlight of the season, the two Noosa teams played off in a 20-minute contest with junior president Adam Calcraft refereeing. You couldn’t separate the two teams with some incredible defensive efforts by all kids. Kai led the Reds from the front in a fantastic attacking display and Cooper saved a number of opposing attacking runs with a great tackling effort. Some impressive gains through the middle by Zac and Max and also a mention for Alby, Ollie, Jake, James, Connor and Riley. All coaches were very proud of the team effort and a well-earned one-try win to the Reds.
Under 9s
The mighty Under 9s journeyed up the highway to Gympie to face Saint Andrews. The Saints ran in two quick tries.
Some quick thinking and fancy footwork by Monty and then Taylor brought us a swift try in reply. The Saints were equally quick to respond with another, but Taylor secured a loose pass for a great intercept try. This sparked a fire in the belly of the Fins’ players with Eric running in a fine try followed by Emmerson in a driving maul on the halftime bell.
The boys came out firing in the second half. A great run and hands from Eric gave Tom the opportunity to run away with a brilliant try. Next was a great team try with Jake finishing it off like a champion. Saints were lucky to break our revamped defence to steal another five points.
Then came an amazing try-saving tackle by Hux, and strong and courageous aggression in both attack and defence from Sol and Hudson.
Further tries to Tom, Taylor, Eric saw the scoreboard quickly ticking over. It was a great game by the lads coming away with 11 tries to six to win, and Huxley earning the Domino’s Pizza Player of the Match.
