Northwind vs. OAFL Australian All-Stars

July 10, 2007 by Bruce Parker | View Comments (0)

The second Northwind development game was against the OAFL's Australian All-Stars. Stacked with skilled players, the Australian team looked to uphold their own national pride by showing the Northwind how to play their Aussie game. This is exactly what Canada's national program needs. Stiff competition always helps a developing team. To be successful at the international level, matches like this are necessary as they help elevate skill and intensity levels to a higher standard.

The Aussies led this game from the start. Although possession was evenly divided, the Australians expectedly executed with more consistent accuracy. The Canadians demonstrated their brand of footy as well. Although not yet as polished, the intensity and physicality were high. As teams exchanged possession and worked the ball down field, onlookers were treated to a skill set above the regular OAFL standard. The first quarter ended with Australia leading by 2.3.15 to 1.1.7.

Australia took the wind and blew the game open in the second and third quarter. The yellow and green were quicker to support when their players were in need and kicked with greater distance. Canada maintained half the possession but were not as successful in transition resulting in fewer opportunities in the hot spot.

The Final quarter saw the Northwind battle admirably as they evened the Aussies goal kicking tally for the quarter with 3 goals. They matched the Aussies' long passages showing great improvement over the course of the game. All day, the Canadians marked well and found room to work under extreme pressure. The Australian side enjoyed comfortable win on the scoreboard, but conceded the Northwind provided far greater competition than expected. Final Score: Australia 14.12.96 to Canada 6.4.40.

Congratulations to the following Northwind players who were recognized for their outstanding performances:

• Aaron Falcioni
• Stefan Leyhane
• Emmanuel Matata
• Matt Bachinski
• Oliver Hayward