Straight From The Sauce – Round 11 League & Reserves

An unacceptable loss against Sturt on Saturday at Unley Oval. Whilst we acknowledge and give Sturt credit for their performance, 124 points is not something we want to serve up and as coaches and players we own our performance and look to get back to where we have been this year.

The start of the game wasn’t at the standard and then once the goals continued it is really hard to stop the momentum. We went into half time with 16 goals to 0.

We had a reset at the main break and to the boys credit we were able to get a bit of control back on the game and we won the quarter 3.4 to Sturt’s 2.2. This was on the back of us winning contest possessions and out tackling them.

In the final quarter we were able to get shots on goal but weren’t able to convert, with us kicking 1.5 to Sturt’s 6.4.

As a senior playing group we are getting challenged at the moment with availability. Whilst this is not the sole reason for the performance, we need to stay positive with the young players that are getting their first opportunities at League level. This week we play the Crows at Adelaide Oval on Sunday as curtain raiser, and any time we can get on there we look forward to it.

In a tough day vs Sturt, Nick Hayes was our best and battled hard with 18 possessions, 8 marks, 5 tackles and a goal. Max Beattie was played through the midfield in the second half, and he used his run and was a contributor to our improved 2^nd half. Jordan Lukac had a good battle with Amos Doyle in the ruck, he is having a great year Jordy, and he showed his developing maturity. Jordan Moore also deserves credit for keeping Fahey-Sparks quiet in what was a testing time in defence.

Finally I want to acknowledge Joe Sinor on his 150 games, his legacy at the club speaks for itself and the amount he gives to the Club and the way he carries himself is something he should be very proud of, a long list of accolades but he is far from the end and we look forward to him continuing to play strong footy.

Finally, sending my well wishes to Timmy Russell who had the accident on game day down the stairs. He is a big character at our Club and will be sorely missed while he recovers. Credit to our medical staff who as always gave him the best care and support anyone can get.

Stick with us as we look to respond this week.

Sauce

Sam Jacobs – Eagles Senior Coach

Still to come…

Shane Hancock – Eagles Development Coach