The New England Nomads continued their recent winning form with a thirteen point victory over the Tamworth Swans at No.1 Oval. Despite the absence of a number of key players, including the Pearce brothers, captain Nick Schultz, Locky McLeod, Jay Wright and Gavin Nelson, the Nomads were able to run out winners in what was a closer fought tussle than the scoreboard might have indicated at times.

The Nomads shot out to an early lead by the end of the first quarter of 19 points and by half time this had extended to 29 points. The margin might have been even bigger if the Nomads’ kicking had been more accurate. However, in the third quarter the Swans came out hard and some defensive lapses on the part of the Nomads let the Tamworth team back in the game, so that at three quarter time the lead had dwindled to just 17 points. In an intense last term the defence held firm and the forward line was able to kick a little straighter to give the game to the away team.

It was a real team effort but there were a number of noteworthy performances. In the forward line Weston Whitby (7 goals), David “Modra” Richards (4 goals) and Hamish Ross (4 goals) kept the scoreboard ticking over. In the backline Mitch Reece, Matt Woodward (in only his 3rd game of Australian Rules) and Grant Wagstaff kept the Swans’ forwards honest. But perhaps the most pleasing aspect was the work of the midfielders. With the Pearce boys and Gav Nelson out, the Nomads had to do without one of the best centre lines in the competition. Thankfully, Johnathon Frost, Modra and Matt Bourke stepped up to the plate, winning the centre clearances time and again and providing drive all around the ground.

There is still plenty to work on, but that is to be expected with so many new players. A week’s break, with the long weekend coming up, should allow the team time for recuperation and more importantly time to work on a few wrinkles that need ironing out.

Round 5 2011

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