Nomads not within reach
Caleb ‘Skins’ Dobos blocks a Tamworth handball
Article – Dave MacLellan, Photos – Mel Gadsby
The New England Nomads have once again been outplayed by stronger opposition, the Roos invoking a forty-four point loss at Tamworth’s No.1 Oval. The Nomads were all but at full strength missing only Dylan McGrath and Captain Glen Northway, whose combined eight years of playing in the TAFL surely created one of the most experienced pairs of water boys in recent history.
The first quarter was closely fought with two late Kangaroo goals giving the home side a handy lead at the first change. Skills and a general game plan deserted the Nomads during the second term and had the green visitors reeling with a near insurmountable eight goal deficit at the main break.
Sparks of life began to fly from the hearts of those donning the green compasses in the third as solid decision making and better team play pressured the half time lead. The Nomads began to evade the Kangaroo tackles and avoid tripping over the ever-present blue-shirted Kangaroo runners to whittle away the enormous lead to a little over three goals. With the pressure mounting some ill-discipline from the Roos, cost the Roos easy shots on goal and allowed the Nomads backs room to run free flowing counter-attacks.
James ‘Shorty’ Downie attempts to gain possesion in front of Roo Paul Tapper
The pressure was short lived and the outside gleam of victory quickly disappeared leaving behind a deserved forty-four point loss. Midfielders Clint Ballagh and Matt Maxwell continued their gritty, determined play in the rucks that has lead them towards consistent season form. While Clint and Matt can hold their heads aloft, the majority were shown to be lacking in skill, effort, accountability and fitness. James Downie booted three in a promising return to AFL.
Next week will see the New England Nomads hosting the Inverell Saints in what will be an interesting clash. Will the Nomads be able to launch and maintain their running game or will Inverell dictate the pattern of the game with their physical style.
New England Nomads v Inverell Saints, Bellevue Oval, Saturday at 2pm.
