With the prestigious Sandy Medal on the line, Tocumwal faced yet another challenge before the first bounce, losing three key talls from last week’s bruising encounter and carrying injuries to key personnel.
But adversity only seemed to sharpen the Bloods’ hunger and endeavour, as they fought hard all day against one of the premiership favourites.
Tocumwal’s goalscorers were spread around, with MacDonald (3), Gittens (2), Sutton, Tonks, and Parish all hitting the scoreboard, but inaccuracy around the big sticks cost them the chance to stay closer during key moments of the game.
Midfield bull Xavier Walker led from the front stepping up to ruck duties, earning the Sandy Medal for his outstanding four-quarter performance, combining toughness, skill and leadership.
He was well-supported by Lachie MacDonald, whose three-goal effort was a highlight, and the hard-running Ricky Gittens, who also chimed in with two majors. Brayden Hall’s work rate was exceptional, Charles Locke gave great service around the ground, and Harvey White continued his impressive run of form.
Coach Daniel Kirchen was full of praise for his side’s efforts, highlighting the improvement in competitiveness and resilience.
“Against a top side like Katandra, it can get away from you pretty quickly, but our boys dug in and didn’t let the game blow out.
“Each week we’re seeing subtle improvements that are building towards our first win. It’s a really exciting group to coach.” Kirchen said.
While a second-half fadeout was frustrating, the opening half showed just how dangerous this Tocumwal side can be when firing on all cylinders. With key players returning and lessons learned, the Bloods will no doubt look to bounce back strongly in their next outing.
Final score: Tocumwal 8.6 (54) def by Katandra 19.13 (127)
Goals: MacDonald 3, Gittens 2, Sutton, Tonks, Parish
Best: Xavier Walker (Sandy Medallist), Lachie MacDonald, Ricky Gittens, Brayden Hall, Charles Locke and Harvey White.
Awards: Raymond Sutton, Josh Mosman, Blake Aglinskas, Logan White
Reserves
The reserves showed plenty of spirit against a slick Katandra side! It was a rocky start before the side even hit the ground, with some late withdrawals. But thanks to a few thirds boys backing up and a couple of club legends dusting off the boots, Toc were able to get a team on the park.
There were plenty of laughs, plenty of heart, and plenty of ice packs needed after the game.
Final score: Tocumwal 1.0 (6) def by Katandra 23.18 (126)
Best: Jordy Findlay, Luke White, Kaiden Meda, Tom Hatty, Will Hatty, Will O’Connell
Goals: Peter Harrison
Awards Jordy Findlay, Luke White, Kaiden Meda, Tom Hatty
Thirds
The side was a few players down, but with the help of some fourths boys stepping up, were able to get the game flowing by the second quarter. Toc had eight different goal kickers, showing great spread across the ground.
Chace Brunskill was again among the best, finishing with four goals, including an epic run from the backline to slot a major. Liam Sutton also had a strong impact with three goals.
The back six played their roles perfectly, restricting Katandra to just two goals for the day. The midfield dominated the centre clearances.
A very pleasing result overall, as the players now turn their attention to a big clash against Strathy this week.
Final score: Tocumwal 13.7 (85) def Katandra 2.4 (16)
Best: Chace Brunskill, Logan White, Liam Sutton, Cody Palmer, Declan Palmer, Pheonix Valente
Goals: Chace Brunskill 4, Liam Sutton 3, Logan White, Heath Mansell, Charlie Wilson, Ollie East, Pheonix Valente, Chase Dickins
Awards: Archie Chellew, Pheonix Valente, Ollie East, Logan White, Declan Palmer.
Fourths
The fourths came away with a strong win over Katandra. Archie Chellew once again dominated in the ruck, giving our midfield first use all day. Charlie Wilson was dangerous up forward, finishing with three goals. Across the ground, Ollie East, Harrison Wilson, Brax Brunskill, and Sam Borg were among the best.
Sam, despite being one of the smaller players, was outstanding down back with his relentless efforts, spoiling contests and applying pressure. It was a tight game for three quarters, but the fourths dug deep and pulled away with a strong last quarter to secure the win.
Final score: Tocumwal 8.12 (60) def Katandra 3.3 (21)
Best: Archie Chellew, Ollie East, Harrison Wilson, Charlie Wilson, Sam Borg, Brax Brunskill
Goals: Charlie Wilson 3, Lucas Grieves, Brayth Koopman, Harrison Wilson, Archie Matters, Joel Harrison.
Awards: Brax Brunskill, Sam Borg, Archie Chellew, Lucas Grieves, Jack Petersen, Nate Dickins.
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