Round 7: Nomads on target
The Nomads remain top of the TAFL ladder following their 19.10 (124) to 6.5 (41) defeat of the struggling Gunnedah Bulldogs.
After a less-than-stellar performance against the Narrabri Eagles, the Nomads re-found their focus around the ground. The attacking efficiency was improved, defending was resolute and the team effort was consistently good.
The Nomads got away to a flyer, leading by 36 points after the first quarter, and built on this throughout the match. Gunnedah, who only have a small squad of players this season and are finding every game hard, battled until the end, with the fourth quarter in particular being very close.
The Player’s Player award for the Nomads went to Mark Curran, while Dylan Munyard picked up the Red Rooster Endeavour award. Both Curran and Munyard were part of the Nomads’ consistent defensive unit which made a bigger contribution than the final scoreline might suggest. The determination and commitment of the defence limited the Bulldogs scoring opportunities while their willingness to back themselves to run the ball out of defence provided the platform for the Nomads midfield to build on.
Delivery into the forwards was better than in some recent matches, creating clear shooting opportunities. The team’s form will need to be maintained and built on next Saturday when the Tamworth Swans, currently second on the TAFL ladder, visit Bellevue.
Goalscorers for the Nomads were Sol Hanks (4 goals), Warwick Richardson (3), Glen Northway (3), Tom Hunt (2), John Mahy (2), Ben Page, Rich Malone, Matt Maxwell, Gus McKenzie and Jack Sartor.
The named best players were Mark Curran, Jack Sartor, Dan Drum, John Mahy, Anthony Reid and Matt Maxwell.