Jerilderie produced another determined four-quarter performance on Saturday, overcoming reigning premiers Katamatite in a hard-fought contest.
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After an even opening, the Demons were able to gain control through the middle stages and showed composure when the game was on the line, with several players stepping up in key moments.
Bohdi Beasley continued his superb form since returning from injury, providing plenty of drive and proving a constant influence around the contest.
Ben Neesson once again showed his trademark courage, putting his head in places most wouldn’t and earning the respect of teammates with his fearless attack on the footy.
Mitch Avard was outstanding, finding plenty of the football all over the ground and working tirelessly from start to finish.
Trav Lawton showed plenty of poise and class with ball in hand, making good decisions and helping set up Jerilderie’s ball movement.
With the game in the balance late, Chris Marshall executed a perfect set play that allowed Jerilderie to lock the ball inside their forward 50 for the remaining minutes, helping seal an important victory.
It was another strong team performance from the Demons, with contributions right across the ground ensuring the four points stayed with Jerilderie.
Final score: Jerilderie 9.9 (63) def Katamatite 8.8 (56).
Reserves
The Dees were under no illusion that it was going to be a hard slog, and to the credit of the players they stood up to the challenge.
Brad Norton put on a huge performance in the ruck, providing plenty of opportunities for the first possession out of the middle.
Brendan Beckett and Cameron Arnold had their hands full in the backline with Katamatite’s fast entries but held strong throughout the game.
Unfortunately, lacking some depth going forward it was a tough day on the park going down by 15 goals.
Final score: Jerilderie 2.1 (13) def by Katamatite 16.11 (107).
Thirds
The young Dees brought plenty of intensity and determination from the opening bounce. Despite the scoreboard, the Demons never stopped competing and were prepared for a tough arm wrestle all day.
James Winn was influential throughout the match, providing plenty of run and drive through the midfield and across halfback.
Evan Lawton and Logan Eldridge threw themselves into every contest, applying relentless pressure and showing courage around the ball.
Blake Davidson battled hard in the ruck all day, giving his midfielders first use whenever possible, while Cooper Gurciullo wrestled strongly in defence and worked tirelessly to keep the visitors at bay.
Although the Demons fought hard and never gave up, Katamatite proved too strong on the day.
Final score: Jerilderie 2.1 (13) def by Katamatite 18.10 (118).
Best: James Winn, Evan Lawton, Logan Eldridge, Blake Davidson, Cooper Gurciullo, Tony Gurciullo.
Fourths
The opening quarter saw the young Dees work hard defensively, with Katamatite managing to kick two quick goals early.
Despite the scoreboard pressure, Jerilderie responded well, moving the ball into their forward line and creating a set-shot opportunity. Unfortunately, the kick narrowly missed, leaving the Dees with a single point on the board at quarter time, with Katamatite leading 16 to 1.
In the second quarter, Jerilderie continued to apply strong pressure around the contest and worked the ball forward on several occasions.
The Dees showed great effort moving the ball into attack, however Katamatite's defence stood firm and prevented any further scoring opportunities. At the main break, Jerilderie remained scoreless for the quarter despite their persistence and hard work.
Katamatite found another gear in the third quarter and capitalised on their opportunities, kicking a number of goals.
The Dees battled hard and attempted to slow the game down by crowding the contest and limiting space around the ball. Their willingness to compete never wavered despite the increasing scoreboard margin.
The final quarter followed a similar pattern, with Jerilderie continuing to apply pressure and contest every ball. The young Dees never stopped working and showed resilience right through to the final siren. Their efforts helped keep Katamatite to 78 points at the final whistle.
While the result didn't go their way, the Demons displayed plenty of determination and teamwork throughout the day and will look to build on those positives in the weeks ahead.
Final score: Jerilderie 0.1 (1) def by Katamatite 11.12 (78).