Corey Pangrazio scoops up a loose ball. Photos: RJFC
Under-14 mixed
In a much-anticipated finals clash, the under-14 Tigers put on a team-oriented clinic, overpowering Castlemaine at Kangaroo Flat on Sunday.
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The match began with the Tigers putting up a solid first quarter against the wind, with Ella Treacy and Reno Mountjoy standout performers down back, regularly smothering Castlemaine’s forward thrusts and setting the tone for the rest of the game.
The second quarter saw the Tigers dominate, with 90 per cent of the play in their favour. Harvey Keating and Asher Rasmussen were instrumental in the midfield, driving the ball forward and creating numerous opportunities.
Heath Kyne looks to fire off a handball while Mason Mundie watches on.
Up forward, Mac Dickinson was at his elusive best as a strong target, while Mason Mundie and Judd Cuttriss played crucial roles as high half-forwards, contributing significantly to the team’s repeat forward entries.
Jag Tarrant controlled the back half, blanketing numerous opposition players, while ensuring scoring opportunities were few and far between.
As the Tigers continued to swing the game in their control, their link-up, chain handball play allowed them to slice through their opposition with precision, cutting through the middle of the ground with ease.
Judd Cuttriss battles with a Castlemaine opponent for a mark.
Harry Rasmussen and Zac Morgan won plenty of ball and continued to wreak havoc all over the ground.
In the final term, the Tigers’ selfless brand of football continued to pay dividends. Relentless inside 50s made it nearly impossible for Castlemaine to regain control of the game.
The team’s cohesion and pressure were key factors in their dominance, as the Tigers ran out comfortable winners, earning themselves a week off before embarking on their second finals match in two weeks’ time.
Assistant coach Nate Rasmussen talks it over with players.
Following the game, coach Tim Rasmussen was emphatic in his address to a packed dressing room, outlining the importance of taking the game on and bringing other players into the match.
He was thankful for the wonderful support at the ground, explaining the importance this played throughout the game and the impact it had on his players.
Rochester15.13 (103) defeatedCastlemaine4.5 (29)
Goals: Mac Dickinson 5, Harry Rasmussen, Mason Mundie 3, Harvey Keating 2, Declan Carmichael, Asher Rasmussen 1
Best: Mason Mundie, Harvey Keating, Harry Rasmussen, Asher Rasmussen, Reno Mountjoy, Mac Dickinson
17°C