For the first time in quite a few seasons, the Nomads have won in the first round of the year, defeating the Gunnedah Bulldogs, by 89 points. The midfield in particular dominated proceedings. Standouts were new recruit Hunter Greene, Clarrie Barker, Noah Connick, Nick Buckland, Tom Hunt, Charlie Paine, Jake Bouchier and Modra Richards. Hunter kicked 4 goals, while Noah, Charlie and Modra kicked 3 apiece (not to forget Clarrie’s 2 snaps). Overall it was a pleasing effort from a new look Nomads unit – although it must be said it was against a seriously depleted Gunnedah outfit.

Once again there was a new look Nomads taking the field art the Bellevue for the start of the new season. Players gone from last year include Benji Dutailis, Harry Munday, Conor Nest and Ira Sulzberger whose presence on the field and around the club will be missed. We do have a number of new recruits including Hunter Greene, Jake Bouchier and Quenten Tomasini who moved here from down south as well as some local Armidale lads playing for the first time, most notably the Quaife brothers (Tajo and Kymani). With so many new faces you might expect that it would take a while fore the team to gel, but right from the first bounce the team was working well together. Captain Hunt won the toss and kicked towards Uralla. At the end of the first quarter the Nomads had kicked 6 goals 2 points to lead the Dogs who had yet to open their account.

Although the weather at the start of the day had been pleasant, during the second quarter it started to turn dark and by the end of the quarter it was freezing cold. This didn’t deter the midfield. At the end of the quarter scores were 10.5.65 to 2.4.16.

The Bulldogs gained some more momentum in the 3rd quarter but the backline led by veteran Johnathon Frost held strong. Taj Quaiffe also was doing back there as did Wulu Hall and Xavier Walsh. Scores at the final change were 14.9.93 to 3.6.24.

The final quarter saw the Nomads kicking to the university end and though dominating the play not really translating that on to the scoreboard. Nonetheless the team held firm defeating Gunnedah with 17.17.119 to 4.6.30. it was a promising effort. Next week is a big challenge against the Roos who will undoubtedly have a strong team at their home ground.

Players’ Player: Hunter Greene
Coach’s award: Nick Buckland
Captain’s award: Jake Bouchier
President’s award: Taj Quaife
Meehan’s Plumbing award: Noah Connick

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