Round 15 August 23 Nomads win against the Gunnedah Bulldogs at home
New England Nomads 19.12 (126) def. Gunnedah Bulldogs 12.10 (82)
After three weeks of ground closures across the New England area due to rain, hail, and snow, the Nomads returned for their second game back and proved why they are considered genuine finals contenders. A strong and convincing win over the Gunnedah Bulldogs secured 4th spot on the ladder with one round to play, reinforcing the team’s finals credentials.
The Bulldogs pushed hard and kept us accountable throughout the day, but the Nomads’ resilience, fitness, and belief shone through. With unity and spirit peaking at the right stage of the season, momentum is clearly building.
Unfortunately neither the Gunnedah nor the Nomads women were able to have enough players available for a game to occur. This was the end of the women’s season unfortunately. However, there is a core group keen to build next year and make the side competitive (and even go towards winning a premiership).
As the saying goes, “You don’t win premierships in June.” The Nomads have timed their run,
and this performance is a warning to the rest of the competition that we are ready to compete
with the very best. The game itself had a finals-like feeling. Despite an unsettled line-up with eight changes coming into the side, it took only 35 seconds for our ever-reliable forward, Jimmy Walters, to slot the first
of his five goals for the day. Captain Hunter Green, leading from the front, delivered a true sskipper’s performance with no fewer than seven goals. Our defence took a little time to adjust to the return of strongman Jack Tapper, who was tasked with containing the opposition’s big man. Credit also to Donovan Hansell, who continues to grow as a player and has added a strong defensive edge to his game.
In the midfield, our group worked tirelessly to steady the ship and make smart decisions under pressure. Special mentions to Gus Russell, Charlie Keillor, John Paul Canavan, Bobby Boyd, and the evergreen David “Modra” Richards. Aidan Barry – our “Mr. Fix-It” – produced one of his best team games of the season, showing he is much more than a one-trick pony.
On a low note, mid-season recruit Zack Goldfinch was forced from the field on the half-time siren with a knee injury. Since joining the club, Zack has been a steadying influence and his versatility has been a crucial asset to the side. Time will tell how long he will be out, but there is no question his absence will be felt.
And sometimes, the highlights are about more than the scoreboard. A truly special moment came when Simon Li – who hadn’t kicked a goal in seven years of his AFL career – nailed not one but two goals. The celebrations were absolutely priceless and captured the spirit of the team.
From a coaching perspective, with two strong games under our belt since the restart, the Nomads are moving onwards and upwards into finals. There are still fundamentals to refine and processes to tighten, but the talent and potential in this group are undeniable. Considering the club wasn’t even in existence last season, our return to finals football in 2025 is already an achievement — and the story of how far we can go is still waiting to be written.
Players’ player: Charlie Keiller
Captain’s award: Bobby Boyd
Coach’s award: Aidan Barry
President’s award: Gus Russell
Meehans Plumbing Award:Simon Li
