Under 18s News
Semi Final
Under 18s, 1st Semi Final
29/8/09
The UHS-VU/Flemington U18s finals campaign begun on the last weekend in winter, and winter delivered one of its more bitter days of the season. Although, the weather could not dampen the spirits of the Vultures about to (for many) embark on their first finals campaign ever.
St Bernards won the toss and elected to kick with the strong wind favouring the southern end. Coach Kershaw showed faith in his back six and did not throw an extra in defence. This faith was returned in spades. Habel, Bourke and Coombe were terrific in repelling the attacks of the St Bernards team. Naturally for a final where everything was ‘on-the-line’ the contest was willing and early nerves and the blustery conditions combined to create many loose ball contests and stoppages. St Bernards were getting first use of the ball from stoppages, but close checking and tackling from Everist, Allen and Papagiannis negated the effectiveness of the St Bernards possessions. The efforts of the UHS-VU/Flemington side restricted St Bernards to 2 goals, while being able to register a goal in to the wind.
The second quarter would provide an acid test for both teams. Were St Bernards willing to work hard against the wind to prevent the Vultures taking a lead into half time? Were the Vultures prepared to continue their hard work and capitalise on the strong advantage provided by the wind?
The second term was an old-fashioned arm wrestle with both teams applying pressure around the contests with fierce tackles and sustained defensive pressure from both backlines. St Bernards were showing glimpses of better play with a greater preparedness to run and provide linking options. The on-ball brigade for St Bernards was also providing first use of the ball from ball-ups. This resulted in St Bernards taking a valuable 2 goal lead in to half time. The question of which team would emerge as the more likely was still unanswered.
During half time the rain arrived and conditions deteriorated, but the style of play and superior team-work of St Bernards did not. Consequently, St Bernards pulled away in the 3rd term to register a 5 goal lead at the last break. It was a big ask for the UHS-VU/Flemington outfit to find 5 goals in the last term when they had only 2 majors for their efforts to ¾ time. The task would prove too great, especially as the St Bernards on-ballers continued to dominate in the middle and provide quality delivery to their forwards allowing for a five goal return in the last quarter and produce a convincing win.
The UHS-VU/Flemington side acquitted themselves admirably, but the team-work of St Bernards was superior on this occasion and they were deserved winners.
UHS-VU/Flemington 3.3 - 21 lost to St Bernards 12.6 - 78
Best: Habel, Free, Coombe, Everist, Bourke, Rowland, Saill.
Goals: Henry 1, Moore, Free.
UHS-VU/Flemington vs Old Camberwell
UHS-VU/Flemington U18s match report Under 18s Rd 18 22/8/09
The final game of the home and away season, at Brens Oval, wasfixtured against Old Camberwell. Old Camberwell came with some ominous formfrom the previous game, belting StMarys/Salesian by 20 goals! This was a teamnot to be underestimated. The equation was simple. If UHS-VU/Flemington won, finals were acertainty, a loss would mean slipping out of the top 4. Thus the stakes werehigh. The game started with intensity, and Vultures attacked the ballwith vigour, but their effort at the contest was let down by a lack of teamplay. It appeared as though every player was desperate to win the ball, butthey forgot to provide options around the contests. Consequently, the play inthe first half was a scrappy affair with a number of stoppages. Allen wastremendous in the ruck, playing like a rover and carrying the ball to affect 60metre plays. Habel and Bourke locked down the back line and prevented OldCamberwell from capitalising on their possessions. Old Camberwell through close checking and harassing around thecontests, continued to prevent UHS-VU/Flemington playing with any fluency inthe 3rd quarter, and deservedly, out scored the home side in the 3rdterm and took a one point lead in to the final quarter. The question had been asked by Old Camberwell- wasUHS-VU/Flemington prepared to fight for their spot in the finals? Coach Kershawaddressed his troops passionately at ¾ time, emphasising the significance ofthe opportunity to play finals football. The rousing speech from Coach Kershawseemed to stir the young Vultures as it was a different side that took theground in the final term. The desperation was still there, but now theirteam-play clicked into gear. TimKershaw, who had been presenting strongly all day at CHF was pulling down somebig pack marks. Williamson was providing some penetrating kicks into the 50metre goal area and Moore was using the ball wisely across half back. The mostnotably feature in the style of play was the willingness of the Vultures toprovide run and support, and carry the ball with linking hand ball. Thisresulted in 7 shots on goal to 2 and in the end a 14 point victory. When it counted the young Vultures responded and displayed thetype of football that was a big part of their successes in season 2009. The style of play that has secured them3rd spot on the ladder and the opportunity to play finals football. Congratulations Coach Kershaw and team.
UHS-VU/Flemington 9.8 - 62 defeated Old Camberwell 7.6 - 48
Best:Allen, Bourke, Habel, Coombe, Henry, Kershaw.
Goals: Henry 3, McSweeney 1, Maki Issa, Allen, Everist, Rowland,Kershaw.
UHS-VU/Flemington vs Northern Bullants
Under 18s Rd 16
8/8/09
The Bullants jumped out of the blocks, at VISY Park (home of Carlton FC), with 3 quick goals, but the Vutures fought back late in the quarter to answer with 3 of their own. The quarter time score was close with the Vultures trailing by 8 points. As has been the pattern in previous encounters the Bullants answered the early challenge by stepping up a gear and displaying superior determination, intensity and fitness to pile on the goals and take a commanding 5 goal lead in to half time. The Vultures fought hard in the 3rd quarter, but the efforts from the likes Free in the ruck and playing the defensive marking tall, Everist in the middle and Coombe across half-back were not enough to curtail an outfit with the single-minded determination of Northern Bullants.
The flood gates opened in the last quarter as every Bullants player pressed on and too few Vultures attempted to stand in their way.
Jack Saill, Moore and Russell were commendable and Bourke and Allen tried hard all day.
UHS-VU/Flemington 5.2 - 32 lost to Northern Bullants 16.16 - 112
Best: Free, Everist, Moore, Saill, Coombe, Russell.
Goals: Henry 2, McSweeney 1, Maki Issa, Cheesman
UHS-VU/ Flemington vs St Marys/ Salesian
Under 18s Rd 15
It was the 3rd away game in succession for the Vultures, this time at Ferndale Park. The postage stamp size of Ferndale Park was a significant contrast to the vast spaces of Sportscover arena, (the venue for our last 2 hit-outs) but it is one of the wonderful idiosyncrasies of our game.
This was the 3rd encounter with StMarys/Salesian this season. Round 3 saw UHS-VU/Flemington over-run the home side in the second half to record a 13 point win and round 8 was also a close encounter with UHS-VU/Flemington victors by 11 points. History suggested this was to be another close encounter.
The Vultures started the game with superior running play, linking well with handball and pressing into the forward line via the attacking play of Allen, Everist and Moore. StMarys clicked into gear late in the 1st quarter to kick 2 goals and trail 4 goals to 2 at quarter time. The pattern of play continued in the 2nd quarter with UHS-VU/Flemington kicking 3 unanswered goals. McSweeney was breaking the lines with his run, Papagiannis was providing run from the half back line and Bourke was relishing his role in the forward line with 3 first-half goals. At half time the Vultures had a comfortable 5 goal lead.
History was to be repeated today and the determined StMarys/Salesian side declared their intentions by kicking the first goal of the 3rd quarter. Suddenly the tables were turned. StMarys were the side with all the run and numbers around the contest to provide numerous options. In a sign that Coach Kershaw was worried about his sides’ flagging intensity and StMarys/Salesians’ momentum, Bourke was switched to his more usual role at Centre Half Back. The last quarter saw the St Marys boys press hard and the Vultures were tiring in the face of an invigorated opposition. Williamson was one of the few winners on the ground for the Vultures in the last quarter and won a number of important contests up forward. But the last quarter was all about StMarys and their brave charge, but time was their enemy and they were unable to overcome their 5 goal deficit, falling short by 4 points.
It was another close and entertaining game against StMarys/Salesian. A special mention to the wonderful spirit the game was played in and the sportsmanship displayed by both sides. Well done lads.
UHS-VU/Flemington 10.9 - 69 defeated StMarys/Salesian 9.11 - 65
Best: Bourke, Everist, Williamson, Papagiannis, Allen, McSweeney.
Goals: Bourke 3, McSweeney 2, Pinto 1, Musa, Allen, Everist, Free
UHS-VU/ Flemington vs St Bedes Mentone
Under 18s Rd 14
24/7/09
The Vultures were fixtured for another Friday night game this weekend, this time against ladder leaders Oakleigh. Both teams had hit good form of recent and accordingly this was billed as the ‘match of the round’.
The first quarter lived up to the billing with both outfits playing fast attacking footy. It was tough and physical in the clinches and this bought a smile to the face of Coombe and Everist who relished the physical challenge presented by the strong Oakleigh team. Moore was his prolific best again, using his foot skills to hit targets up forward. Our forwards were proving elusive and scored from two set shots after finding space to take a mark.
After a close 1st quarter Oakleigh upped the ante with their physical style of play and this rattled some of the UHS-VU/Flemington players. Too few of the Vultures were prepared to ‘tussle’ with the Oakleigh players leaving too much work for the likes of Papagiannis, Allen and Irving to try and counter the tough and physical attack of Oakleigh.
The trend continued in the second half but the defensive efforts of Everist, Russell and Bourke down back limited the damage and ensured that the Oakleigh lads didn’t have it all their own way.
Moore, Allen and Coombe battled hard all night and were terrific under enormous pressure and StClair provided a hard body in the physical contests.
Oakleigh proved they were formidable force, and will be tough to beat, but not one without chinks in its armour.
UHS-VU/Flemington 3.2-20 lost to Oakleigh 13.17- 95
Best: Papagiannis, Moore, Bourke, Allen, StClair, Irving.
Goals: Henry 1, Habel, Potroz.
UHS-VU/ Flemington vs St Bedes Mentone
It was Friday Night Football at Sportscover Arena, the home of Amateur Football. This Friday night clash featured the 4th placed UHS-VU/Flemington against the 3rd placed St Bedes/Mentone. With both teams by no means secure in the top 4, due to a St Bernards outfit breathing down their necks, this was an important game.
In their last encounter a fast paced St Bedes/Mentone outfit used their run and carry to good effect, playing on at every opportunity and using runners from behind to create space for uncontested possessions. This was a feature of their game plan Coach Kershaw planned for with his UHS-VU/Flemington outfit, imploring his side to apply tackling pressure and watch their runners from behind.
The tackling pressure the Vultures applied from the word go was epitomised by the likes of Coombe, Moore and Rowland. Strong tackles that stopped their opponents in their tracks and were often rewarded with ‘holding-the-ball’ decisions. The Vultures choked the St Bedes/Mentone play with constant pressure and harassment. When in possession the Vultures used the ball well, consistently hitting targets and dominating the corridor with the likes of Free and McSweeney taking contested marks. McSweeney was very dominant and switched from his on-ball role to a key forward with great effect, winning a lot of ball in the middle and kicking goals up forward.
After a terrific first half the Vultures were 7 goals to nil, again the back-line for the Vultures were miserly, led by the likes of Cheesman, Russell and Bourke.
The Vultures continued to dominate the third quarter with winners all over the ground, especially an elusive Henry up forward and Coombe taking a number of defensive marks to halt St Bedes/Mentone attacks. A four goal quarter saw the Vultures break their 10 goals-or-more drought, kicking 12 to ¾ time. More remarkable though was keeping their opponents to a single goal to ¾ time.
St Bedes/Mentone outscored the Vultures in the last quarter, but the damage was done and a buoyant UHS-VU/Flemington outfit can look forward to their next challenge, Oakleigh, with the knowledge they can more than match it with the top four sides.
UHS-VU/Flemington 14.13-97 defeated St Bedes/Mentone 5.5- 35
Best: Coombe, Free, Moore, McSweeney, Rowland, Bourke.
Goals: McSweeney 6, Henry 4, Maki Issa 2, Everist, Free
UHSVU/ Flemington vs Therry Penola
UHS-VU/Flemington 8.12-60 defeated Therry Penola 5.5-35
The Vultures returned to the ‘nest’ (Brens Oval) this weekend for a clash against our northern neighbours, Therry-Penola. In the previous two encounters the clashes were close, with margins of 12 and 4 points. Thus, it was made apparent by Coach Kershaw that this was not a game to be taken lightly. This was emphasised by a pumped up Therry-Penola charging out the sheds declaring this was their big chance.
A howling gale favoured Therry-Penola in the first quarter and Therry did most of the attacking with UHS-VU/Flemington only registering a solitary behind. But importantly the defensive work of the Vulture’s backline, with assistance from the on-ball brigade of McSweeney, Moore and Musa restricted Therry to 2.2.
UHS-VU/Flemington made better use of the wind than their counterparts kicking 4 in the second quarter through terrific work from McSweeney to kick 3 for the quarter. Moore, Habel and Bourke provided the forwards with plenty of opportunities.
UHS-VU/Flemington’s best work for the day was saved for the 3rd quarter. Musa and Maki Issa ran hard into the strong northerly to break up the often congested play and drive the Vultures into attack. Their carry through hard running was an excellent example for their team mates and, against the tide, led to a number of forays into attack resulting in 2 valuable goals into the wind. The backs continued to work hard, in particular Coombe, who created opportunities by drawing 2 or 3 opponents in contested play to dish out to a waiting team mate for an uncontested possession. The effort in the 3rd quarter meant the Vultures were only out-scored by 2 points, despite Therry having the considerable wind advantage.
In the last quarter UHS-VU/Flemington had their opportunities to hit double figures in the goal count, (and break a 9 game drought) but some wayward kicking meant only 2 goals were scored for the quarter. The end result was a very good team effort to defeat Therry-Penola in tough conditions, but the elusive 10 goals or more will have to wait for another Saturday.
Best: McSweeney, Moore, Allen, Free, Bourke, Maki Issa.
Goals: McSweeney 4, Allen 1, Henry, Maki Issa, StClair
UHSVU/ Flemington vs Old Camberwell
UHS-VU/Flemington 8.12-60 defeated Old Camberwell 3.9- 27
The Vultures hit the road again, this time out to the spacious Gordon Barnard Reserve. With only percentage separating 4th and 5th place this was a game UHS-VU/Flemington couldn’t afford to lose and accordingly Coach Kershaw worked hard during the week to get his chargers up for this ‘must win’ clash.
A pumped up UHS-VU/Flemington approached the first quarter with tenacity and dash, but were met with an equally determined Old Camberwell outfit. UHS-VU/Flemington worked hard at the stoppages and forced the ball forward, through the good work of Musa, Moore and McSweeney, but the backline of Old Camberwell proved dominant and restricted UHS-VU/Flemington to a single goal. The pattern in the second quarter was largely the same until the efforts of Everist, running hard off half back, resulted in a ‘long-bomb’ through the big sticks, Moore’s gut-busting running to space provided a marking target and goal and debutant Suna pounced on a loose ball and snagged a smart goal.
Coach Kershaw happy with the efforts of his team, particularly the hard tackling of Mirah Issa, Musa and head over-the-ball toughness of the Asir twins emphasised the need for a continued effort in the second half, mindful of the wind advantage Old Camberwell had in the 3rd quarter. Kershaw also had an ace up his sleeve. In a move to counter the dominance of the Old Camberwell backline he turned to “Big Harry” Free to take on the Old Camberwell talls in their backline. The move up forward proved a stroke of coaching genius as Big Harry kicked 3 goals in the second half to ensure UHS-VU/Flemington maintained 4th spot.
It must be mentioned that the efforts of the Vulture Backs was not unnoticed by this scribe. Restricting Old Camberwell to 3 goals was a mighty effort and was an effort led by Habel, Coombe and Cheesman.
Best: Musa, Habel, Moore, Cheesman, Coombe, Free
Goals: Free 3, Everist 2, Moore 1, Bourke, Suna
UHSVU/ Flemington vs Northern Bullants
Rd 10
27/6/09
UHS-VU/Flemington 4.6-30 lost to Northern Bullants 24.9-153
The Vultures traveled out to the home of the Bullants, in the heart of Preston, with the smells of Preston Market wafting across the ground to greet all those that arrived.
The cries of the Saturday market spruikers were soon drowned out by the first siren, which signaled the start of a frenetic first quarter. Both sides attacked the ball with fierce determination and the ball flowed from end to end with fluency. UHS-VU/Flemington were matching it with their more fancied rivals with Moore, Habel and Bourke providing unshirking contests and bone-jarring tackles. Moore and McSweeney were combining well in the middle to drive UHS-VU/Flemington into attack and the scores at the end of the first quarter were Vultures 3.1 to Bullants 3.3.
Unfortunately that is where the contest ended. The Bullants with superior fitness and skill slammed on 6 unanswered goals in the second quarter. Playing with only 17 fit players the situation didn’t improve. The Bullants continued to pile on the goals in the second half with the likes of Bourke, Moore, Musa and Cheesman trying valiantly to stem the tide.
Best: Bourke, Moore, Musa, Cheesman, McSweeney, Papagiannis
Goals: Moore 1, Musa, Bourke, Habel.
UHSVU / Flem Jnrs Vs St Bernards
Under 18s Rd 9
20/6/09
UHS-VU/Flemington 5.11-42 lost to St Bernards 7.7-49
St Bernards Football Club started the match with only 16, but this didn’t deter their spirit. The Bernards boys showed up the UHS-VU/Flemington boys for application and determination to claw back a 22 point half-time deficit to run out victors by 7 points.
The warning signs were on display early for the Vultures, missing numerous chances in front of goal and turning the ball over to the under-manned St Bernards side. The St Bernards were playing to their coaches game plan- pushing back in defence, applying pressure on the Vultures and moving the ball out of defence with patience and ‘smarts’, waiting for players to run forward and hitting their targets. UHS-VU/Flemington didn’t have many winners on the ground but Moore was very good, working tirelessly in the middle, Harry Valentine was providing resolute defence and Pinto was effective up forward kicking 2 goals.
St Bernards continued to grow with confidence as the game progressed and remained faithful to their game plan that unravelled the undisciplined UHS-VU/Flemington Side.
St Bernards came to Brens Oval to play football and on this day gave UHS-VU/Flemington and old fashioned lesson in what it took to win footy- desire, determination and dedication. Well done St Bernards.
Best: Moore, Coombe, Musa, Valentine, Pinto, Cheesman.
Goals: Pinto 2, Henry 2, Rowland 1.
UHS-VU/Flemington defeat St Marys/Sal
13/6/09
UHS-VU/Flemington 8.15-63 defeated St Marys/Salesian 7.10-52
It was deja vu watching the game between UHS-VU/Flemington and their opponents for round 8, St Marys/Salesian. As per last round it was a game contested, mainly, between the two half forward lines, with both defences dominating play. Matt Bourke was reading the play with aplomb and dragging in marks at CHB and Coombe was relishing the tight contests, bullocking his way out of congestion and creating opportunities for team mates. Potroz was proving a live wire up forward and Habel, again, was presenting as a reliable target. Everist and Rowland played important roles at half-back and in the middle, and Rowland was unlucky not to have a few more goals beside his name.
The persistent St Marys/Salesian side pressed hard, especially in the last quarter, but the young vultures did it again, winning in their dogged manner and keeping their spot in the top 4 intact.
Best: Bourke, Rowland, Everist, Potroz, Coombe, Habel.
Goals: Habel 2, Maki Issa 2, Everist 1, Rowland, Kershaw, Musa
UHS-VU vs Therry Penola
UHS-VU/Flemington 8.7-55 defeated Therry/Penola 7.9 -51
In conditions that were suited to a fast flowing, highly skilled game UHS-VU/Flemington and Therry/Penola put on a scrappy arm-wrestle more often seen in less agreeable conditions. The game was largely fought between the two half forward lines with both defences standing up resolutely. Everist and Moore were repelling many attacks and Coombe was bullocking his way out of congestion to press UHS-VU/Flemington into attack. Kershaw worked hard for UHS-VU/Flemington at centre half forward and Allen was winning many of the ruck contests.
At half time coach Kershaw was scratching his head and wondering why his players, at times, seemed reticent to grab the footy, “Did the ball have an ugly face”, he queried? The young Vultures answered their coach after half time with an improved effort, keeping Therry, kicking with the wind, to one goal.
UHS-VU/Flemington, behind at every change, were kicking with the wind in the last quarter and put on a burst of 10 minutes of fluent football to kick three unanswered goals. This proved enough for the vultures to hang on and grab another valuable 4 points. It could be argued the game was an ‘ugly win’.
Best: Habel, Moore, Everist, Potroz, Coombe, Allen.
Goals: Everist 2, Potroz 1, Habel, Maki Issa, Mirah Issa, Kershaw, Moore.
Round 6 v St Bedes
UHS-VU/Flemington 6.7 (43) v St Bedes/Mentone 9.6 (60)
It was a show down between 4th placed UHS-VU/Flemington and 3rd placed St Bedes/Mentone, or the clash of the Combines!
Playing (away) at Brindisi St Oval, the first quarter was a scrappy affair with both sides applying pressure on the ball carrier resulting in many stoppages. Gee was a ‘rock’ in the back line and Habel was pulling down grabs all across the ground and counter-attacking with hard running.
The game plan of St Bedes/Mentone, play on at all costs and work the ball through the corridor, was frenetic and fraught with danger, but delivered the goods in the second quarter with St Bedes putting on 5 goals after a goal-less first quarter. At the main break St Bedes were up by 12 points and appearing to have the ascendency.
UHS-VU/ Flemington refused to lie down and fought hard to curtail the run and carry of the St Bedes/Mentone through out the 3rd quarter to be in touch at the last break, 4 goals off the pace.
Coach Kershaw threw caution to the wind and inspired his chargers “to take them on” and that they did. With the likes of Habel, Everist and Asir the Vultures pressed hard, but inaccuracy cost them in the end and they fell short by 17 points.
Best: Habel, Everist, Ahmed Awal (Gee), Free, Coombe, Allen.
Goal: Henry 3, Habel 2, Free 1.
Young Vultures win on Past Players day
UHS-VU/Flemington 9.1. (55) d Old Camberwell 8.5. (53)
On the day the past players came to lunch, we managed to snatch a win in a genuine heart stopper at home. As coach Kim Kershaw told the huddle after the game: ‘ It was a 50/50 game that could have gone either way. Today we take the four points’.
In difficult blustery conditions at the bounce, the bigger bodies of OC were teaming better and marking well all over the ground – our defence did well to restrict their scoring to just a goal in the opening quarter. The second quarter – our best – saw UHS slam on 4 goals to their 2, as James Henry once again showed his excellent skills in front of goals and Hugo Everist put his raking left foot to good use up the ground.
We were three goals up at 3/4 time and looked home, but Old Camberwell were not done yet and piled on 4 goals in the last quarter with the two sides going goal for goal with 5 minutes to play. Hasan Asir slotted a vital goal to put us back in front and we held on to win by just two points in spite of OC having more scoring shots. Congrats to those who made the most of their opportunities!
Vultures take on league leader
UHS-VU U18s took on ladder leaders Northern Bullants and were competitive to half-time. UHS-VU matched the Bullants in intensity and commitment to the ball and this showed on the score-board at the main break, with UHS-VU trailing by 5 points. After half-time the Northern Bullants showed why they have comfortably accounted for each of their opponents. In wet conditions the superior the skills of Northern Bullants, combined with an increased work rate, saw the Bullants put on 11 goals after half-time. Northern Bullants were clearly the better side after half-time, but the likes of Everist, Allen, Moore and Russell continued to battle hard for the Vultures.
Under-18s win first match in VAFA
An impressive display from the UHS-VU under-18s saw the newcomers hold off a fast-finishing Therry Penola in the first round on Saturday.
The VAFA has introduced an Under-18 competition for the first time in 2009, with UHS-VU fielding one of the 8 foundation teams, a re-incarnation of the UHS-Flemington Juniors under-18 team that has competed in the WRFL over recent years.
The boys adapted rapidly to the fast-flowing style of amateur football, and at quarter time both teams had 3 goals on the board. Uni stepped up the intensity in the second quarter with resident redheads Jack and Cailean dominating the midfield through their hardness at the footy. Timmy and Jimmy were injecting excitement into the forward line with their high marking and accurate kicking, and Uni took a 2 goal lead into the long break. UHS-VU dominated the third term, with Lachie and Ben continuing to control the aerial contests at stoppages and around the ground. The halfback line was impassable and enabled the Green and Tan’s to take a 5 goal lead into the final term. The game was certainly not over, as Therry Penola came out firing in the last quarter. Perhaps the hard-running Uni boys were tiring as they were forced to withstand repeated Therry attacks. The Green-and-Tan’s managed to dig deep, and in a high pressure conclusion to an entertaining game, the final siren sounded with UHSVU hanging on to win 13 10 88 to 11 10 76.
Congratulations to coach Kim Kershaw and the boys on a successful beginning to this new an exciting chapter in the history of UHSVU football club.
Round 2 sees all three teams playing at home at Brens Oval in Parkville. The ANZAC-day action begins at 10am with the under-18s hosting Oakleigh, and the Seniors play Bentleigh at 2:30pm.
Kokoda experience trailblazer for teen and police bonds
(Article featured in The Age, 9 August 2008)
By Dewi Cooke
THE stairs of the Flemington public housing estate tower didn't compare. Not to the rigours, the heat, humidity and mud of the gruelling Kokoda Trail.
"I was thinking to myself, if I do this, I could achieve anything I want to do and put my mind to," 17-year-old James Henry said. "It was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life."
Henry was one of 16 Debney Park Secondary College students who a week ago crossed through the gates of Owers' Corner at the end of an emotional nine-day hike along the infamous jungle track. They were supported by a group of mentors including serving members of Victoria Police, a YMCA co-ordinator, Debney Park teachers and a Yarra Trams ticket inspector.
It was a moment that brought most of the group to tears, partly out of exhausted relief and also sadness at leaving behind the PNG porters who had kept their spirits up during the trek. "The kids just sobbed," teacher Adriana Pejic said. "They were so emotionally touched by everything, by the challenge and by also knowing that it was over, knowing that they had to say goodbye to the porters, that the beautiful friendship they had built up was over."
Like many of the students who took part, James Henry lives on the Flemington estate. Before travelling to Kokoda, he said he would have considered himself and his neighbours "the poor ones in Melbourne".
"But I don't think that any more. Now I realise how lucky I am," he said. "I've got a house, I've got clothes, PlayStation, TV. They live in wooden huts with tin roofs, they don't have any electricity, so in so many different ways we're lucky."
It is the second year that Flemington teenagers and police have walked together down the Kokoda Trail. The project tries to build better relationships between police and young people in an area riven by mistrust and anti-social behaviour.
"The police in the area and the youth were obviously disengaged and we had to do something," Inspector Nigel Howard said. "Kokoda was something that appealed to us. It was teaching the kids a little something about history and taking them to an environment where, if they think they've got it hard in the flats, let's go and have a look at how hard these people live."
Inspector Howard said the anti-social behaviour problems of two years ago had "gone" although there were still issues with crimes such as burglaries. But he was hopeful of change.
Thirty students trained for eight weeks leading up to the trip and had to meet strict requirements of fitness and attendance. Trainers made use of their inner-urban surrounds by sending the group walking, and sometimes running, up the stairs of the Flemington towers.
The committees, coaches and players of Flemington UHS congratulates James Henry on his achievement
Round 17 v North Footscray
Flemington UHS 10.7.67 v North Footscray 16.10.106
The plan was to go out on top and treat this game as our grand final since we were no longer in the hunt for a finals spot. It was always going to be a tough game for us with 9 players still unavailable and against a team that has been a solid performer this year and was playing for a top 3 finals spot. Again we relied on the U16 players to fill the gaps and they did a fantastic job in that regard.
Unfortunately for us the opposition started well with the breeze and came out with a fair bit of intensity at the ball and managed to consistently hit targets by foot in their forward 50. Our backs were caught napping and our midfield did not get enough of the ball early to stop it and we trailed by 7 goals to 1 at quarter time. A better 2nd quarter with the breeze saw us trim back the lead but we were still being outplayed around the ground and North managed to keep a strong half time lead.
Fortunately our intensity lifted in the second half and we managed to restrict their scoring opportunities with the breeze and this was done through some fantastic midfield and backline pressure with our tackling count lifting noticeably. Our last quarter started with the same intensity as how the 3rd quarter finished but we were unable to capitalise on our chances and a few missed shots at goal could have pegged back the margin but in the end a fitter and cleaner (skill wise) opposition team finished on top. Good to see a spirited effort in the second half in which I think we outscored the opposition (albeit marginally). Solid last half to finish the season on a positive note.
Best players included Sam McS, Igor, Matt Bourke, Hugo, Elliott, Farhan, Harry, Andrew, Kalen and Ben Russell. Special mention to Josh who attacked the ball hard all day only to be crunched putting his head over the ball during the last quarter in a 1 v 2 contest. Great to see U16 players prepared to put their body on the line. This sort of commitment shows just how much there is to like about the 18s prospects for next year in taking the next step towards finals.
Unfortunately for Flemington we will finish the best side outside of B grade finals 2 years running but at least the results show we were good enough to beat any side above us on any given day and with just a bit more luck we would have been playing finals this year.
Goalkickers: Farhan Hasan 3, Moore 2, Williams, Everist, Issa, McSweeney, Hasan Asir 1.
On a personal note, after 3 tough years I have decided to step down as Under 18s Coach and would like to thank all the help I have received from both the UHSVU and FJFC committees, the parents, the players, Shannon Orbons (asst Coach/Runner 2006-07), Cuneyt Ercosan (Runner 2008) and particularly Matthew O'Neill who was invaluable as Team manager over the past 3 years. It is great to see that after all that effort the Flemington Under 18s has developed into a very competitive outfit with solid prospects in the coming seasons and I wish everyone involved the best of luck. I will be down whenever possible to watch a few games next year. Thanks again.
Round 16 v Point Cook
Flemington UHS 20.20.140 v Point Cook 1.5.11
After what has been a very tough week for all involved at the Flemington FC this week it was great just to get out on the ground again and focus on a game of footy.
Although having 11 players unavailable this week was going to make it tough, it was good to see this years Under 16 players get out on the field and have a go and they proved to be some very handy additions to the side. It was a game we were expected to win against the bottom side but as we have learnt repeatedly this year you shouldn't take things for granted in this competition.
We started off well into the breeze in the first quarter but wasted a few scoring chances with some poor finishing. We more than made up for it in the second quarter by trying to open the play up a bit and run with the ball to create more scoring opportunities with the breeze. The game was effectively over at half time as we held at 10.11 to 0.0 lead but still a half of footy left to be played.
The 2nd half continued on much as the first with many scoring opportunities created by some excellent midfield work from Sam Mc, Elliott, Andrew, etc. but also solid defensive efforts by Igor, Ben, Hakan, etc. refusing to give away any easy shots at goal. Good to see most of our scoring opportunities being capitalised on in the second half with some excellent finishing by Farhan and Hassan regularly featuring in the goals but in particular a couple of great running goals posted by Ben Kirk and Hugo. A couple of highlights in the last quarter were goals form our regular key defence players Igor (a great snap across the body) and Full Back Ben Russell who made the most of a rare trip up forward.
A good solid team effort across the board and it gives us plenty to work with in what should be our last game of the season next week, barring a major upset. Let's approach it like a Grand Final and finish off the season on a high against a side playing finals. Our aim is to be the best side outside of the finals.
Best players included Sam Mcsweeney, Farhan, Elliott, Andrew, Ben Kirk, Hakan, Hassan, Hugo, Kalen and Lachlan A.
Goalkickers: Farhan 6, Hassan 3, Sam McSweeney 2, Elliott 2, singles to Will Cheeseman, Hugo, Ben Kirk, Cailean, Shaq, Igor and Ben Russell.
Next week v North Footscray (4th) at Brens
Be there 8.45 sharp.
Photos and BBQ after the game.
Round 15 v Altona
Altona 12.8.80 v Flemington UHS 7.13.55
This was a disappointing result considering our recent good showings against better opposition and whilst we had a few players out this week that is no excuse.
Our first quarter was probably where the game was lost as we scored 2.6 (v Altona's 1 goal) with what was a 4-5 goal breeze blowing straight down the ground. Our forwards failed to capitalise on numerous scoring opportunities both in terms of key forwards not presenting and crumbers not being clean enough at ground level.
Our second was pretty good as we restricted Altona to around 2 goals for most of the quarter but some defensive errors enable some goals in "junk time" to provide them with a 6 goal to 3 half time lead. We weren't out of it but a had a lot of work to do in the last half to be a chance. With sheer hard work and a lot better ball use into our forward line we managed to hit the front at 3 quarter time to keep in the game with a chance.
Unfortunately despite some good work to set up several scoring opportunities into our forward line we failed to capitalise into the breeze in the last quarter and couldn't stop Altona's scoring opportunities. A yellow card also didn't help our cause as we were then 1 player down for the majority of the last quarter. We fought the game out well but a wasteful 1st quarter in front of goals probably cost us the game in the end. The loss means we are realistically no longer in finals contention for season 2008.
Shame to see the match conclude with what can only be described as a disgraceful effort by the Altona players and officials but at least we can take away the satisfaction that after already beating last years B grade premiers twice this season we have more than any other club ensured they do not play finals again this season and defend their title.
Best players were Cailean, Sam Mc., James, Andrew, Igor, Ben, Brett, Kalen and Houssen.
Goalkickers included Henry 2, Cukici, Issa, McSweeney, Cheligoy, Moore 1.
Let's aim to be the best side outside the finals and win our last two matches.
Next week
v Point Cook at Brens (Home).
Be there 8.45 sharp.
Round 14 v Werribee
Flemington UHS 13.5.83 v Werribee 14.7.91
This week provides yet another frustrating and heartbreaking loss against a side we were clearly good enough to beat. After leading all day it was pretty tough watching us get to a 20 point lead in the last quarter just to see the much fitter Werribee side (4th place) make use of the breeze and run over the top of us with the last 4 goals of the match.
We started the game well with the breeze and led by 5 goals to 1 at quarter time with some effective long kicking into our forward line to set up our tall forwards. An even better 2nd quarter saw us dominate play into the breeze to lead 9 goals to 7 at half time although Werribee were certainly not out of it.
The 3rd quarter was probably the quarter we lost the game as we failed to take advantage of the breeze and a more determined Werribee outfit really made it hard for us to score with some excellent pressure and they actually managed to tie the game up at one stage until we kicked a couple of late goals to hold a narrow lead at 3 quarter time. We started well by getting the opening goal but it was pretty much all Werribee from that point on as they kept up their running intensity to continually put pressure on our back line. Unfortunately the heads dropped too quickly when they got in front and they managed to seal it on the siren with the last goal of the match to steal the game from under us.
Great overall effort by the team and there were some players who were playing injured so we can hold our heads up from that effort. Unfortunately we seem to have lost Tim for the season and his loss in the first quarter may have been the difference in the end but I reckon we lost the game last Tuesday night when only 6 players bothered to show up to training. If we aren't prepared to make the necessary effort to get to training when our season is in the balance then we have no one else to blame but ourselves for wherever we finish.
Best players included James, Cailean, Andrew, Matt Burke, Elliott, Erhan, Hassan, Brett and Houssen.
Goalkickers included Cheligoy, McSweeney 3, Farhan Hasan 2, Hakan Asir, Cukici, Issa, Salew, Williamson 1.
Our season is still alive but we need to win our last 3 matches to be a chance of playing finals.
Next Week
v Altona (away)
Be at Maccas 8.00 am Saturday.
Just 6 training nights left before finals so get to training.
Round 13 v West Footscray
West Footscray 9.8.62 v Flemington UHS 11.16.82
Finally we have broken through after 3 good efforts in a row but without any points to show. We badly needed to win this week to keep our finals chances alive so it was a real must win game and an "8 point result" as we are competing with West for the same finals spot.
Although not at full strength we are still fielding strong teams and it was great to get James back after a successful debut in the seniors last week.
We started a bit flat and it was a real battle getting goals for both teams as it is a small ground and easy to defend. A 15 point half time deficit was not helped by a last minute yellow card so the players really had to dig deep in the 3rd to give themselves a chance. Things were looking pretty grim as West kicked the first couple of goals and although we had the best of the centre clearances we weren't effectively capitalising until late in the game. A couple of late goals in the 3rd gave us the momentum though.
We finished with the breeze in the last and full of confidence because of the strong 3rd quarter and managed to pepper the goals with a 5 goal to NIL effort in the last.
Great to see a real team effort although pretty wasteful at times up forward as evidenced by the scoreboard. Not complaining though about a solid come from behind win against the 4th place side who haven't lost at home for 2 seasons.
Many great contributors but best included Matt Burke, Cailean, Sam Mc, Andrew, James, Igor and Houssen.
Goal kickers Harton Gashi 5, Farhan Hasan, James Henry 2, Hakan Asir, Matt Bourke 1.
Let's take this momentum into next week and keep on rolling towards finals.
Next week v Werribee (Home)
Be there at 8.45 sharp.
Round 12 v Nth Footscray
Flemington UHS 12.10.82 v North Footscray 14.9.93
Another good effort but no 4 points against the 2nd placed team at home. Getting frustrating seeing how we can take it up to all the top teams yet not come home with the points week after week but hard to fault the players when the effort is clearly there and we have not been able to put a full strength side on the ground for the last month or so. Still our season is far from over and we will probably need to take away 4 to 5 wins from our last 5 games to play finals. There should be no doubt in the playing group that every game is winnable from this point onwards which should give us a fair amount of confidence going forward.
We knew the importance of the game from the outset and really gave it a crack from the start although a few players looked a bit flat. We were down 3 goals to 1 at quarter time and 6 goals to 3 at half time and although having a fair amount of the ball we weren't as efficient in our usage as NF were and the scoreboard reflected this.
North set up their win with a solid 3rd quarter kicking with the breeze to lead at 3 qtr time by 12 goals to 6 and it wasn't looking promising as a few heads started to drop under the workload. The Coach asked the team to take some risks in the last quarter and give it a real crack as we had the breeze and still had a chance if we wanted it badly enough. Great to see the players respond with a more confident attacking style with a direct approach on goals paying dividends as we managed to kick 6 goals to 2 in the last but this wasn't enough to get us over the line. Harton kicked 5 out of these last 6 goals which was an amazing display as a "power" forward for this level of footy. Shame we didn't use him in the 2nd quarter when we had the chance. Story of our day was lost opportunities but it just
shows we are capable of beating anyone in this comp on our day but we need to start winning from now on.
Many solid contributors all day but best players included Cailean, Matt Burke, Harton, Sam Mc, Sam Brizzi, Brett, Erhan and Hakan.
Goalkickers included Harton Gashi 6, Farhan Hasan 2, Erhan Cukici, Tim Kershaw, Solomon Salew, Sam McSweeney 1.
Special mention to James Henry (U18 Capt) who made his senior debut with UHSVU on the weekend. James kicked 6 goals on debut (including 6 of the last 7 scored by UHSVU) to get them over the line by 8 points in what was a stunning effort. Great to see U18 players make the most of
opportunities to play seniors when the chance arises. A very proud day for all involved with the U18 team.
Next game v West Footscray (4th place) away.
Meet at Maccas 8.00 am.
Round 11 v Wyndhamvale
Wyndhamvale 9.10.64 v Flemington UHS 7.5.47
A good result against this year's top team at their ground, especially considering we had 5 players unavailable from the week before including several key position types. Every time we are struggling for numbers away we always seem to rally which is pleasing and makes the job easier as everyone who shows up is always committed and ready to play.
We started off well with the breeze but gave the home side a chance to pinch a couple of late goals which would later prove telling as these were the only goals kicked against the breeze all day. At quarter time we led 2.2 to 2.1 and although under the pump during most of the second quarter we defended well against the breeze and were down 5 goals to 2 at half time but certainly not out of it.
Great to see the players rally during the 3rd with some fantastic defensive efforts down back, strong work by our on ballers around the middle of the ground but also some great goals kicked under a lot of pressure. There was a fantastic buzz at the 3 quarter time huddle after blitzing the opposition 5 goals to 0 in the 3rd and the team realizing we were still a big chance to take away an amazing win.
Unfortunately even with an extra man thrown back it was always going to be a tough ask to stifle the top team who were full of running and had the momentum of a final quarter breeze which seemed to pick up during the last quarter.
Although a loss on the scoreboard the team lost no admirers with a fantastic four quarter effort. We have to be the unluckiest side in B grade at the moment as we seem to be playing well enough to win games but aren't taking home the points - YET. But it'll come.
Many solid contributors all day but best players included Tim, Maki, Cailean, Kalen, Hakan, Farhan, Sam Mc. and Andrew who rucked hard all day.
Goalkickers included Maki Issa 4, Sam McSweeney 2, James Henry 1.
We are still in finals contention so some good showings in the next few weeks will determine the outcome, especially with 4 home games out of our last 6.
Next game
Brens v North Footscray (2nd).
Be there 8.45am
Round 10 v Port Melbourne
Flemington UHS 13.7.85 v Port Melb. Colts 12.14.86
Absolutely gutted is the only way to describe the feeling after Saturday's game. To lose a game you were leading all day by 1 point with a kick after the siren in the circumstances we did really leaves a big hole that is hard to fill. It was a game we prepared well for and were justifiably confident of winning as we needed to in order to keep our spot in the top 5.
We started well kicking 4 goals to 1 against a very physical opposition who were more intent on intimidation than winning the footy. Pretty weak effort by 1 of the Port players to hit one of our players from behind on quarter time but it only served to fire up the players for the second quarter.
Disappointing that we did not play to instructions which gave the opposition scoring opportunities they would not otherwise have had in the second quarter. At half time we still held a 10 point lead kicking into the breeze although Port had a sniff.
We started to get on top in the 3rd quarter with some solid play and were out to a 22 point lead but an undisciplined 50 gave the opposition a goal which they quickly followed up with a second one to keep them in touch at 3 quarter time.
Despite many nervous moments in the last we always seemed like we would hold on to the game and in fact missed several easy shots on goal which should have put the game beyond their reach. Unfortunately their second last goal with a minute to go followed by a horror free kick decision snatched away what should have been a well fought win.
Full credit to the opposition for sticking to their guns but even more credit to our players who did outplay them for most of the game. We just need to ensure we follow team plans better and reduce the occasional undisciplined/selfish act as well as get to training more regularly. These are aspects of our game that need to improve. At least we know we can compete with some of last year's A grade U18 teams on even terms.
Best players included Cailean, Erhan, Kalen, James, Sam McSweeney, Farhan and Harton.
Goalkickers: Farhan Hasan 3, Maki Issa 2, J. Henry 2, R. Williamson, H. Gashi, A. Forster, Erhan Cukici, M. Cheligoy, Hasan Asir 1.
It is easy to drop our bundle after this but we are better than that and are not out of the finals race by any means. Another big challenge awaits us this week with the top side away. Let's keep it positive a give it a real crack.
Next game
v Wyndhamvale (away)
Meet at Maccas Sat 8.00
Round 9 V Werribee
Werribee 16.4.100 v Flemington UHS 8.12.60
This was definitely a game where the scoreboard did not do us any justice as our workrate was solid from the first bounce until the last siren and our competitiveness was evidenced by the fact that we had the same number of scoring shots yet lost by 40 points, which does reflect a difference in the skill level of the two teams only.
After our last visit to Werribee 4 weeks ago (100 pt loss) it was important that irrespective of the final result that we had a real crack at them for the entire game as their fitness and skill level is amongst the best in the competition and I was not disappointed with our efforts.
Werribee jumped us early by quickly scoring the first goal out of the blocks with the aid of a couple of soft free kicks but from that point on it was a real battle and Flemington were right at them. There was a greater sense of urgency with the way we played this time around and every player was aware they had to be more accountable for their opponents when not in possession of the ball.
Werribee went in at half time with an 8 goal to 3 lead (similar to last time) but that is where the difference was made in that Flemington managed to fight out the second half right to the end and we even managed to outscore Werribee in the last quarter (if only by 1 point) just to prove we can finish games off against good opposition.
Very hard working on ballers including Matt, Tim, Sam Mcsweeney, Cailean, James and Sam Brizzi led the way with hard work in defence paying off as well as some great work going forward. Backline were solid all day and were really put under the pump from the first bounce but never gave, They were ably led by Kalen, Brett, Ben Russell and Co. Some excellent tough work at the footy by Mohammed Sharaf and Hakan who were both crunched but were still just as hungry to keep going. Farhan's work up forward was a real step up and added some extra bite across half forward.
This game proved how much we have improved over the last 4 weeks and even with a few no shows there is a lot of depth in the squad as many players stood up on the day to be counted and great to see everyone have a red hot go.
However we need to keep improving as the opposition will get tougher as the year goes on. Great effort on the weekend though.
Best players included Matt, Sam Mcsweeney, Sam Brizzi, Tim, Cailean, James, Kalen, Erhan, Brett and Farhan.
Goalkickers - Farhan 4, Sam McSweeney 2, Soloman, Erhan 1.
We have this weekend off (June 7th) but training as normal both weeks. Next game v Port Colts (Home) 9.45am June 14th. Be at the ground 8.45 am.
Round 8 v Altona
Flemington UHS 11.9.75 v Altona 6.7.43
Another solid effort against Altona for the 2nd time this season at home which was set up with a 5 goal to 1 first quarter and a 9 goal to 1 half time lead.
This result was primarily due to our excellent workrate in the first half and most players soundly winning their positions around the ground. There was also some good team play going forward to share the ball around to players in better positions and we were at times a little too unselfish but good to see just the same.
Altona needed to respond in the 2nd half and they did although we did take the foot off the accelerator in the 3rd quarter to give them a chance to claw their way back into the game.
This is something we need to improve at clearly if we want to move forward this season. Still I am not entirely unhappy with a 5 goal to 2 second half given our strong first half efforts and half time lead.
Best players included Cailean, James, Tim, Harton, Sam McSweeney, Erhan, Igor and special mention to a couple of players who really stepped up on the day - Ben Russell who was very solid down back all day and Farhan who worked harder up the ground to provide a good target across half forward.
Goalkickers included James Henry 5, Erhan 3, Farhan, Sam McSweeney, Solomon 1.
We are now 4th place on the ladder and play 2nd placed Werribee this week so we need to step up a fair bit to reverse our previous result.
Next week v Werribee (away).
Meet at Maccas at 8.00
Round 7 v Point Cook
Point Cook 6.0.36 v Flemington UHS 15.10.100
This was an excellent result considering the tough weather conditions away from home and also at a ground we had never played at before. It was never going to be an easy task and was good to see how the team stuck at it and managed to gradually wear down the opposition with solid wet weather football over 4 quarters.
Although they were the bottom team a good start was vital and we were leading at quarter time by 4 goals to 1 and were never looked like losing from that point.
Although the wet weather is supposed to be a leveller that drops the skill level, you can see the difference between the skilled players and the rest as the skilled players can play well under any conditions and it was their ball handling and goal kicking ability that was the difference in the teams. Our bigger body players also had a major impact around the as there were numerous stoppages and hard ball gets were the order of the day.
Special mention to our backline again who managed to play pretty disciplined old fashioned footy including some of the lesser lights like Harry, Ben and Houssen but in particular Igor who clearly won his position on the day and stopped many attacking moves.
Best players: Cailean, Igor, James, Harton, Sam McSweeney, Tim, Houssen and Maki.
Goalkickers: James 5, Sam McS 3, Harton 2, Hassan 1, Andrew 1, Maki 1, Nat 1, Solomon 1.
Round 6 v West Footscray
Flemington-UHS 12.11.83 v West Footscray 10.7.67
This was a fantastic win against quality opposition who were in first place and undefeated so far this year. This was an important test of our character as a team as we were belted last week and needed to play well this week - win, lose or draw.
The game started off with a fair bit of intensity but scoring opportunities were hard to come by because of the excellent defensive pressure by both sides but we still managed to take a handy lead into half time. The lead blew out to around 30 odd points but West kept chipping away until they were within 7 points midway through the last quarter but the team responded well under pressure with a late goal to Matt sealing the match.
Many good efforts across the team but particular mention must be made of our half back line - Sam Brizzi, Andrew and Robert - who were rock solid all day and repelled many attacks by West. The backs were tight and the midfield generated a lot of run and attacking football but great to see our forwards working hard to keep the ball in which made a huge difference this week.
Great to see some solid work on the track this week being replicated out on the ground. Just goes to prove the quote that you it all starts on the training track.
Half the team could be included in our best players but in addition to the half backs mentioned above other great contributors on the day were Maki, Tim, Matt, Erhan, James, Ben Kirk and Solomon.
Goalkickers Matt, Harton, James 2, Hasan , Elliott, Andrew, Erhan, Ben Kirk, Farhan 1.
Next week v Point Cook (away).
Meet at Maccas at 8.00 am.
Round 5 V Werribee Jrs
Werribee Jnrs 19.18.132 def Flemington-UHS 3.7.25
The game was an important step for the U18 team in that we needed to get some away wins for the season if we wanted to play finals, and this was a game that if we didn't win then at least we needed to be very competitive.
We were close up until half time - 3 goals to 6 down - with both teams failing to capitalise on each others skill errors which kept it a low scoring affair to that point.
After half time there is no other way to describe it but as a pitiful effort by Flemington. Many key players didn't fire and those that did didn't do it long enough and not enough players were prepared to step up to fill the gaps. Too many players weren't prepared to run hard into defence when the ball didn't go their way and the back line was pretty much under siege from that point onwards.
Very few highlights to take out of the game except for a gutsy backline and James Henry taking mark of the day but failing to capitalise on it unfortunately. One special effort worthy of mention was a pretty courageous effort by Erhan (who was captain for the day) to drag himself off the ground after being crunched and then to immediately jump back into a marking contest against a bigger opponent only to go down again. Pity not many more team-mates were prepared to give that sort of commitment on the day. Just proves that there are no easy games in this division and if you are anything less than switched on during the day then you will pay for it.
One bad half of football doesn't end a season so we need to bounce back in style this week against the top side West Footscray at home.
Best players included James, Kalen, Mohammed Sharaf, Tim, Brett, Erhan.
Goalkickers included Muhammed Kuzucu, Farhan and Matt.
Round 4 v Altona
Flemington UHS 16.13.109 v Altona 10.7.67
An excellent result to defeat last year's B grade premiers this being our first week up in B grade as well as missing a couple of key players.
We started off strongly kicking with the wind and managed to get a 7 goal to 1 quarter time advantage. Even more pleasing was the fact that Altona were held off in the second quarter so that we still managed to hold an 8 goal to 4 lead.
As expected we were challenged in the second half by a side capable of running out 4 quarters but managed to hold them off with a strong approach at the ball and a very hard working midfield. Full credit to the backline as well who were still put under a lot of pressure and managed to restrict Altona's scoring chances.
A very solid team effort all day and many good players across the board but best players included James, Erhan, Harton, Cailean, Brett, Muhammed, Elliott and Farhan.
Goalkickers included Farhan 5, James Henry 3, Erhan, Harton 2, Elliot, Kandio, Ahmed Musa, Soloman 1
Next Week v Werribee (away).
Meet at Maccas 8.00 am
Season 2008: Round 3
Flemington-UHS 12.10.82 v Williamstown Jnrs 6.8.44
Finally we get the chance to play for points as what has been a late and frustrating start to the season gets underway.
It was a very competitive first quarter with Flemington scoring 4 goals to Willy's 3 in what was a very entertaining opening quarter in terms of scoring. The second and third quarters saw the game develop into a bit of an arm wrestle with the scoring opportunities drying up and good backline pressure resulting in Willy missing a few opportunities in front of goals. The last quarter was always going to be tough with the lack of match practice for the 18s (this our first competitive game coming in round 3) and the players responded well with the Coach asking for a maximum effort to get over the line and the players delivered by kicking away to a comfortable 6 goal win. Overall, a very good team effort.
Many good contributors on the day but the best included James, Harton, Sam Mcsweeney, Tim, Erhan, Cailean, Matt and Brett.
Goalkickers were Hassan 1, Matt C 1, Erhan 2, Harton 1, Farhan 3, James 2, Sam 1, Cailean 1.
Training back to 5.30 starts at Brens.
Next game
The current fixture may change once the WRFL regrades teams but it is currently showing as Braybrook (Away) for Sat 26th. Meet at Maccas 8.15 am.
Harton Gashi made the 2007 WRFL U18 team of the year.
WRFL U18B Best and Fairest votes 1st place 20 votes whilst Harton finished equal second on 17 votes.
Other vote getters were:
Moustafa Taleb 12
Abdi Elmi 5
Abdi Farah 4
James Henry 3
Cuneyt Ercosan 3
Mohammed Abddulle 2
Igor Pejic 2
Matt Cheligoy, Nat, Jake, Sam Forbes, Fuat 1 each
U18s R17: Flemington-UHS 11.19.85 v Williamstown Jnrs 5.4.34
A comprehensive win away from home to finish the season was made difficult with a solid wind blowing directly across the ground but to which the players adopted well to a modified game plan. A big effort was asked for from the players so they could send off the top age U18 players in style in what would be the last game for 7 of their team mates. Unfortunately the discipline of the team broke down in the 2nd quarter with 3 send offs for Flemington enabling Willy to get within a goal at half time. The boys were possibly trying too hard to win for their mates and let their frustrations get the better of them.
After a half time baking the players responded well with a very solid and disciplined 2nd half (7 goals to 1) to run out comfortable winners. Unfortunately our last quarter game plan of trying to get last gamers Cuneyt and Tolga a goal each never came off but it was enjoyable just the same. Many contributors throughout the day but the best included Jake, Harton, Mustapha, Sam Forbes, Erhan and Igor.
Goalkickers E. Cakici 2, H. Gashi 2, J Henry 2, S. Forbes 1, F. Hasan, C. Moore, M. Taleb, F. Yalcin.
This is our last game for the season as we missed out on finals by just 1 + 1/2 wins. A much improved effort this year with 10 wins and a draw from 17 starts which should set us up for a big year next year.
Thanks to every player this year for their efforts (especially the players who did pre-season) and also Otis, Shannon and Drew for the efforts in getting the side on the field every week in trying circumstances.
Presentation Night will be the Friday night before the AFL Grand Final (28th Sept) along with the Seniors/reserves so stay tuned to the website for more details.
Any U18 players (this year and next year's) are welcome to join in the seniors training for the rest of this year if you want to keep up some fitness. Both sides should be playing finals and will be good experience for everyone who makes the effort. I'll see you there.
U18s R16: Flemington-UHS def Deer Park
No game as the opposition forfeited. Not an ideal way to win but it is 4 points and the best % from the round just the same.
Next week is our last game for the year v Williamstown Jnrs (away).
U18s R15: Flemington-UHS 21.21.147 v Glenorden 2.3.15
A great feeling to recapture some of our early season form so late in the season with a very solid performance at home. The late withdrawal of a few key players didn't help our preparation but the availability of some U16 players at least enabled us to have a bench at the start of the game which came in handy as the game wore on as both sides started losing players to injury. The game was set up in the first quarter with a very pumped up Flemington kicking away early with a 6.8 to 0.2 quarter time lead. We went on with it during the 2nd and 3rd quarters (10.1 scored in the 3rd) and gave the opposition very little chance to get in the game. Good to see on our improved on field discipline also paying dividends this season.
Best thing about the win is that it keeps our slim finals chance alive.
A dominant midfield set the game up with a forward line that was able to capitalise on most opportunities until the opposition flooded back in the last quarter to shut down the game. Best players including Harton, Sam Forbes, Nat, Cailean, Sam McSweeney, James, Erhan and Mohammed Kuzucu.
Goalkickers included Kuzucu 4, Henry 4, F. Hasan 3, Cakici 3, Gashi 2, N. Salew 2, M. Abdullahi 2, C. Moore 1.
This week Deer Park at home.
U18s R14: Hoppers Crossing 9.12.66 v Flemington-UHS 8.10.58
A tremendous effort by the U18 team against the 4th placed side (now 3rd) away at their ground. The preparation and focus of the team was first rate and evident in the way they attacked the contest from the first bounce to take a solid quarter time lead 4 goals to 2. This was even after the coach accidentally started with 17 players on the ground for the first few minutes (we still were up 2 goals to 1 at this stage). Flemington clearly had the ascendancy in the first quarter. As expected Hoppers came back hard in the 2nd but unfortunately with 1 Flemington player sent off Hoppers were able to take the lead at half time.
From then on it was an arm wrestle as both sides ran hard to set up scoring opportunities. With our finals hopes on the line Flemington finished hard to kick the last goal of the match to keep us in touch but the siren unfortunately beat us. Overall a great effort and one of our best games for the year against quality opposition. If only we had shown this same determination and work rate for the rest of the year we wouldn't be hoping for other sides to fall over so we can make finals.
Many fantastic individual efforts across the board but best players included Harton (shirt-front of the year), Igor (run of the year from CHB), Mustapha, Matt, Lucas, Kal, Erhan, Tom, Jake and Nat.
Goalkickers TBA.
Still a lot to play for this year as we can win our last 3 games and even if we don't make finals still take something positive into next year.
This week we play Glenorden at home.
U18s R13 Flemington-UHS 7.13.55 v Yarraville Seddon 3.7.25
Always good to get a win especially under very slippery conditions away from home. It was real slog that was probably never in doubt after quarter time because a 3 goal quarter time lead in such heavy conditions was worth probably double that amount. A solid second quarter effort resulted in a strong lead of 7 goals to 1 at half time with some excellent work around the ground in getting numbers back in defence when required and pushing forward when the ball was cleared out of defence/middle of the ground.
Unfortunately our intensity dropped away considerably after half time (although the effort was still there) and we failed to kick a goal (7 straight behinds in fact were scored). This was a combination of a more desperate home team and a more complacent effort by Flemington. Still winning ugly is better than not winning so a good result that keeps our finals hopes alive.
Best players included Harton, BO, James, Erhan, Nat, Muhammed, Mustapha and Jake.
Goalkickers: Farhan Hasan 3, M. Cheligoy 1, E. Cakici , D. Frame, N. Salew.
U18s R12 Flemington-UHS 5.8.38 Drew with Albanvale 5.8.38
A fantastic result considering our current injury list and the fact that we barely scraped together the 19 players for what was a crucial game against one of the more highly fancied teams for the U18B flag this year (3rd place before this round). It was a real credit to the team the way they went about it and how they stuck to the game plan. Our discipline was tested at times (2 send offs) by a very physical opposition team but on the whole was pretty good.
As the scoreboard suggests it was fairly low scoring in slippery conditions with Flemington maintaining the lead for most of the day (usually about 7 - 8 points mostly). We actually kicked the first goal of the last quarter to hold a two goal lead late into the last quarter but unfortunately we couldn't maintain the intensity and Albanvale to their credit kicked two goals in the last 3 minutes to square up the scores at the final siren. It was a surreal feeling to have a tied result but 2 points is still valuable as it keeps our finals chances alive.
Most pleasing aspect was that it was most of our lesser lights that stood up on the day to help get us over the line (nearly). Best players included the"usual suspects" James,and Abdulkadir (BO) (great work on the ball BO) but also included Daniel and the "mosquito fleet" which included Hasan, Hakan, Erhan, Joel and Muhammed Kuzucu whose tenacity all day at the ball gave the side a chance. Great team effort with no passengers which shows that when we work hard together we can get the results.
Goalkickers included Farhan (2) , Abdulkadir (2), James.
Next game v Yarraville-Seddon (away).
U18s Round 11: Flemington-UHS 7.10.52 v Altona 9.11.65
It was a spirited effort against a side (5th) that was also playing for a finals spot and was a game we needed to win to keep our finals chances in our hands. After jumping the opposition (we kicked the first 4 goals of the
match) we held a narrow quarter time lead of 5 goals to 3. Unfortunately some undisciplined acts in the 2nd quarter (1 send off and a 50m penalty in front of goals) helped Altona back in the game. The side put up a gutsy effort to restrict the oppositions scoring opportunities in the 2nd quarter with 1 player down but some late Altona goals sapped our confidence.
A committed 3rd and 4th quarters kept us in touch with a more skilled and fit opposition side and we even got to within 1 goal in the last quarter but Altona scored the last goal to get the points. The side tried hard all day but the lapses in concentration throughout the game and the poor discipline in the second quarter cost us a winnable game.
Best players included Harton, Mustapha, BO, Erhan, Hakan, James, Nat and Luke.
Henry 2, Hasan Asir 1, Erhan Cakici, Farhan Hasan, Mohammed Kuzucu, Fuat Yalcin.
A similar committed effort this week against Albanvale (3rd) will keep our finals hopes alive.
U18s Round 10: Western Magpies 19.9.123 v Flemington-UHS 6.4.40
A poor result against a side that whilst hard to beat at home we should have been more competitive against. After a competitive start to a side that was up and running from the first bounce (3.5 to 3.1 down at quarter
time) we fell in a hole during the second quarter and never recovered after WM poured on 6 goals to no score.
Our lack of intensity on the day was exposed by a side that was more hungry for a finals spot. They ran well and in numbers and used the ball better which is something we need to emulate if we are to be a chance of playing finals. Our discipline also let us down with a couple of Flemington players being sent off in the second half. Generally the team had a go but training intensity needs to improve if we are to be a contender for this year's finals.
Not many 4 quarter footballers but our best players included Harton, Mustapha, James, Tolga, Erhan, Kalen and Abdulkadir.
Goalkickers BO, James, Matt, Harton, Igor, Erhan.
We have now dropped to 7th spot. WE ARE STILL A CHANCE FOR FINALS BUT THERE ARE NO EASY GAMES FROM NOW ON.
Next game at Home v Altona (5th place).
Under 18s in the media
The Leader newspaper this week published an article outlining the development and successes of the under 18s team. The full article can be found on the Leader website
A few of the boys also appeared on page 3 of Monday's Herald Sun
U18s Round 9: Flemington-UHS 8.11.59 d Sunshine 7.2.44
I guess the weekend's game goes to prove the saying that winning ugly is better that not winning at all. Our poor kicking at goals and skills in general nearly cost us a win against a side that has only won 1 game for the season. Flemington produced a very complacent first half effort against a side that probably surprised us with their hard running and disciplined game plan. Brens oval seemed to suit their game style nicely.
It was a half of missed opportunities as we scored 3.9 to 2.1 to take a slender half time lead. Unfortunately our 3rd quarter didn't start too well with a player sent off and some very undisciplined efforts (talking back to Umpires in particular) which saw one of our goals reversed. Fortunately we had enough players prepared to work hard and dig deep so that we were able to maintain our lead and not cave in even though we were short a player. A real arm wrestle ensued in the last quarter as both sides scored goals but Flemington emerged worthy winners after a solid effort.
Many good players but special mentions to Jake, Mustapha, James, Kalen, Harton, Hakan, Abdulkadir (BO), Cuneyt and Rami (good tagging job in the 2nd half).
Goalkickers: Ratcliffe 3, Farah 2, Gashi 1, Henry, Abdulle
Well done to Nat also who played his third consecutive senior game with UHSVU (and snagged another goal).
Next game v Western Magpies (away)
U18s Round 8: Flemington-UHS 17.12 114 def. Williamstown Juniors 7.7 49
Flemington 17.12 114 to Will. Juniors 7.7 49
A great result to bounce back from our most disappointing game for the year last week. Although we started slowly (3 goals apiece in the 1st) quarter a much more disciplined and hard working 2nd quarter set up a handy lead at the half time break. However unlike the previous week we went on with the job in the second half to overpower a committed opposition. A big emphasis was placed on performing the 1%'s this week and that was a large contributing factor to the result. Many great individual efforts but some great 1% efforts included Tolga's bone crunching head-on tackle of a larger opponent which when combined with the 50m penalty set up a shot at goal and Hassan's spoil of a larger opponent from an opposition kick in set up one of Igor's 4 goals. Backline was also steady even when outnumbered on a couple of occasions.
Some very hard working on ballers including Harton, Moustapha, James and Mohammed Abdulle in particular working hard in both directions to secure an important win.
Goalkickers included Igor 4, Farhan 3, Mustapha, James, Daniel, Erhan 2, Abdulkadir (BO), Mohamed Abdulle 1.
Special mention also to our Captain Nat who debuted in the seniors on the weekend kicking 2.2 and making a noticeable contribution in the seniors solid 105 pt win v Bulleen. He also won the 6 stubbies from the opposition for best player.
Next Game v Sunshine June 16th which is the senior past players day.
U18s Round 7: Flemington-UHS 8.8.56 v Deer Park 10.13.73
A poor result given that Deer Park had only won two games for the season to date and we were in 3rd position looking to consolidate our spot. There were 3 compulsory changes through injury but when in addition 4 players decide not to show up on the day it makes it difficult for any side to focus on the task at hand.
Considering the 7 changes to the side from the previous week we started well 3.0 to 2.6 at quarter time into a slight breeze followed up by a blistering 2nd quarter which saw Flemington up 7.5 to 2.6 at half time in what was probably our best quarter for the year considering how undermanned we were. Unfortunately this is where the good news ended.
I don't know whether it was complacency, laziness or the jumper change at half time (we had to switch to the senior jumpers at half time because of the jumper clash) - or perhaps all 3 - we fell in a hole at half time. Deer Park were more committed at the football and more determined to run the game out than we were and led by 1 goal at 3/4 time. Unfortunately our first half intensity never returned and we were over run by a side that we should have put away in the 3rd quarter.
The lesson for this week is that the game is not won until the final siren. Half a game of footy doesn't cut it even at this level of footy.
The game was marred by an all in brawl in the last quarter which stopped any momentum we had after we scored our only goal in the 2nd half. A poor result considering our good start to the year but I believe we can bounce back this week against Willy juniors at home.
Goalkickers were Farhan 3, Kandio 2, Harton, Kalen and Hasan 1.
There weren't many 4 quarter players but best included Mustapha, Nat, Harton, Matt, Hassan, James, Kandio and Farhan.
U18s Round 6: Flemington-UHS 10.11.71 def Glenorden 4.7.31
It's always good to win away from home but it was especially satisfying given the condition of the ground (dirt covered cricket pitch) and the strong wind blowing across the ground making conditions pretty tricky for any visiting team. A couple of players making late withdrawals threw out the team structure but with several timely returns from injury we fielded a pretty good side in the end.
Flemington started well to take a handy 3 - 4 goal lead at quarter time and were never headed from there. Flemington dominated the centre clearances with some excellent ruck work from Matt backed up by a lot of solid work at ground level by Mustapha, Jake, james and Said. Hassan also had a day out on the wing but the big surprise packet was Abdulkadir (BO) with a stunning 4 goals on debut - not bad for a first ever game of Aussie Rules. He kicked the goal of the day which involved playing on from the boundary line and kicking across his body into the breeze.
Glenorden kicked a couple of early goals in the last quarter but Flemington steadied to hold on from there. A good win under tough conditions.
Next week we play Deer Park away.
U18s Round 5: Flemington-UHS 7.4.46 v Hoppers Crossing 13.16.94
A disappointing result considering that we were starting to build a fair bit of momentum and Hoppers to date had won only 1 game. The late withdrawal of a couple of on-ballers didn't help and Hoppers fielded a pretty good side but no excuses you play with what you have and they were better on the day.
Flemington started slowly (nearly 3 goals down at quarter time) and looking very flat after a poor pre-game preparation (many players arriving late). A spirited 2nd and 3rd quarters saw Flemington within 2 goals at 3 qtr time and victory in sight but a fitter and more disciplined Hoppers outfit ran the game out well to take the points. The Flemington boys generally had a real go but it goes to prove that with poor preparation and lower intensity any side can be beaten in this competition this year.
Many good players but the best were Harton, Mustapha, Igor (2 goals), Cuneyt, James, Nat and Matt.
We need to bounce back this week against Glenorden away and hopefully a better preparation with some returning players will reverse this week's result.
FIXTURE for Under18's
Full fixture for Flemington-UHS under 18s for 2007
Click here
U18s Round 4: Flemington-UHS 19.10-124 def Werribee 5.6-36.
The U18s played at Brens against last season finalists Werribee and ‘touched’ up the more highly rated visitors. Werribee jumped out of the blocks kicking the first 2 goals, but our lads soon clicked into gear, with Gashi, Said Elmi and Ratcliffe providing first use of the ball from the middle. Their dominance of the middle and at stoppages continued throughout the game and our backs led by Nat Salew and Cuynet Ergosan repelled many Werribee attacks. Up forward Frame had a day out kicking six and Farhan Hasan kicked 3. The forwards were particularly good in the second half kicking 12 goals to Werribee’s 2 goals.
Goal kickers: Frame 6, Farhan Hasan 3, Mohamed Abdulle 2, Cukici 2, Said Elmi 2, Henry 1, Pejic 1, Ratcliffe 1, Taleb 1.
Best: Gashi, Said Elmi, Pejic, Taleb, Salew, Ergosan, and Ratcliffe.
U18 Round 3: Flemington-UHS 9.2.56 v Wyndhamvale 23.13.151
This was always going to be a tough ask against the ladder leader at their ground (and who have since been promoted to "A" grade). Our preparation was poor and we were jumped early and never headed the home team all day. They were a very good outfit who ran the ball well, broke the lines in the midfield and finished off well with the footy which is something we need to be doing if we want to remain a top side this year. Being second to the football in most contests was probably our main weakness in the first half.
Flemington were down by around 10 goals at half time with injuries to key players not helping our cause. The second half produced a more spirited performance with a much better work rate even though the lead eventually blew out to 15 goals by the end of the game. We still managed to score 9 goals which given their current form many sides in this year's B grade would not have managed against Wyndhamvale so there were still positives. Very few 4 quarter performers but good efforts were put in by Jake, Said, Matt, James, Mustapha, Luke, Robert and Daniel.
Goalkickers included James 3, Said 2, Daniel 2, Erhan 1 and Jake 1.
The draw for the remainder of the season will be announced sometime this week. Venue/opponent TBA.
U18 Round 2: Flemington-UHSVU 24.7.151 def West Footscray 8.7.55
The u18s scored a solid win against a team that has played finals for the past two years and would be expected to play again this year. A very disciplined team effort this week which made it one of my most satisfying games to be involved with at the club. West Footscray were jumped early and never recovered after the first quarter despite an opening 3rd quarter rally that ran out of steam due to the pressure applied in the Flemington midfield. Whilst the forwards were very disciplined at sharing the ball and the backline continued to play a very tight disciplined game it was in the midfield where the win was set up with a dominant on ball division and centre line giving the forward line many opportunities to score.
There were many good contributions but the best players included Harton, Abdi, Jake, Said, Sam, Igor, Erhan and Nat. The loss was soured by the injury to Ali (broken ankle) which will rule him out for the season at this stage.
Major goalkickers were Abdi 6, Said 4, James 3, Daniel, Jay and Farhan 2 each.
A big challenge this week with top of the ladder Wyndhamvale (away).
U18 Round 1: Flemington-UHSVU 26.16.172 def Braybrook 6.2.38
A tremendous start to the season with a confidence building win for under 18s team. The boys started slowly but ended up scoring 6 goals to 1 with a strong breeze in the first quarter but undid much of the good work by letting the opposition back in during the 2nd quarter with many undisciplined acts (in particular talking back to the umpires) but still managed to hold a half time lead of 10 goals to 4. The game unravelled in the 3rd quarter as the opposition ran out of legs along with some very good team play in the midfield and the forward line with a lot of running to space, linking up in the midfield and unselfish play in the forward half sealed the game by 3 qtr time. The game opened up more in the last quarter with Flemington-UHS running out comfortable winners. Major Goalkickers included Abdi Elmi and Farhan 5 each, Daniel James and Jake 3 each. Half the team could have received mentions for their efforts but best players included Igor, Jake, Abdi, Harton, Farhan, Said, Robert, Nat and James.
A big challenge this week with last season's finalists West Footscray being our next opponent.
Under 18s Pre-season Training
Training is held every Tuesday and Thursday
at 5.30pm, Brens Oval, Macarthur Rd, Parkville
The UHS-Flemington under 18s welcome new players for the upcoming season. For more details contact James Mitchell James.Mitchell@mgc.com.au or 0403 298 904.
2006 News
In 2006, UHS-VU and the Flemington Junior Football Club commenced the development of an Under 18 side. Despite the challenges involved in starting a side from scratch, the team improved significantly throughout the season resulting in a number of prestigious awards:
James Mitchell Wins Coach of the Year
James won the AFCA Western Region Youth Coach of the Year award following his superb effort in starting the UHSVU/Flemington Juniors Under 18s side and developing them as a team to improve throughout the season.
James was recognised for his tireless work required to coordinate his players, from many different backgrounds, to ensure that they were competitive and enjoying their football.
James also received a special mention from triple-premiership Calder Cannons coach, Robert Hyde, for his contribution to the game.
Abdi Makes WRFL Team of the Year
To cap off a great start to the development of the under 18’s team, UHSVU/Flemington Juniors under18 on-baller Abdi Elmi was selected in the WRFL U18s team of the year for 2006.
Flemington-UHS U18 Award winners for 2006
Best & Fairest: Ali Merhi, Abdi Elmi, Nat Salew (tied)
Most Determined: Mohammed Abdulle
Most Consistent: Kalen Spiteri
Most Improved: Ozgur Aslan
Coach’s Trophy: Charlie Pena
