From the Armidale Express, 27/06/2011
The New England Nomads have rebounded from their shock loss to Gunnedah last week with a win over ladder leaders Tamworth Kangaroos. Round 7 of Tamworth AFL saw the unbeaten Kangaroos travel to Bellevue where they were greeted by a well-drilled Nomads outfit.

Both sides came out strong – each had five shots at goal – but it was the visitors who had the edge, after a hard-fought first quarter, taking a five point lead into the first quarter. A quarter time rev-up from coach Brendan Meehan saw the Nomads emerge from the break energised. The home side worked well out of the centre, focused on their controlled style of play and were rewarded with an eight point lead at half time.

Despite the best efforts of Tamworth, the Nomads held onto their lead for the remainder of the tense match to run out 15.11 101 – 12.11 83 victors. It was their goal kicking that proved costly for the Kangaroos – their last quarter surge undone by inaccuracy in front of the posts.

Hamish Pearce agan led from the front for the Nomads ably supported by Dave Richards up front and Mitchell Reece in defence. Omphile Temoso and Hamish Ross were also among the Nomads’ best.

Goal kickers for the Nomads were Dave Richards (5), Hamish Ross (2), Adrian Walsh (2), Darby Pearce, Caleb Dobos, Hamish Pearce, Daniel Perry, Adam Parish and Weston Whitby.

Coach Meehan was pleased to be back on the winner’s circle, but also to see so many of his charges step up to the plate and bag goals – instead of relying on one goal kicker.

The win solidifies the Nomads place in the TAFL top four and should place them in good stead for their match with Narribri next weekend. The Nomads and Narribri are equal second on the ladder after Round 7, with New England marginally ahead on for and against.

Not for reproduction except by permission of the Armidale Express

Round 7 2011

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