Round 12 Match Report

I am writing to you at the end of a two week break for all teams.
 
It seems like a long time ago, but the highlight of the last round for the Club was the gritty come from behind victory by our seniors at Old Carey.  The game was close all day, but after Carey kicked the first goal of the last quarter we found ourselves training by 16 points, with work to do.  From that point on we dominated the game, kicking three goals to nil to scrape home by four points.  In such a tight competition it was a crucial victory, keeping the season alive for at least a few more weeks. 
 
It was heartache for the ressies with a goal to Carey in the last minute of the match condemning us to a three point loss.  Again, it was close all day, and the boys were gallant in defeat.  Ben Joy, one of our up and coming youngsters, played his 50^th game for the club.  For someone who would struggle to get wet if he turned sideways in the shower, Ben plays with tremendous courage, and has a great footy brain, turning up in the right spot at the right time.  Congratulations on 50 games Ben, you are a “Joy” to have around the club.
 
As has been the case for most of the year, the Under 19’ were right in the game, only falling short by 22 points after a couple of late goals to Carey.  Keep fighting boys, hopefully a win is not far away.
 
Struggling to field a side, the women also struggled on the field, going down to Wattle Park by 10 points.  The double bye has come at a good time, with several key players likely to return in two weeks-time.
 
The Thirds were also struggling for players, and were overrun in the second half by Old Scotch.  We sit fifth on the ladder, but equal on points with the third team, so need to get back on the winners list ASAP.
 
During the break, both James Allen and Lachie McGowan represented the VAFA in games against the Bendigo league.  Lachie took part in the Under 19 game in which the VAFA easily accounted for Bendigo.  James represented the seniors – great reward after so many years of outstanding VAFA football, and kicked the final goal of the match which helped the VAFA to an eleven-point win in extra time.  Well done to both James and Lachie who represented the club with distinction.
 
As mentioned earlier, only the Thirds play this week. Other teams resume this week (Saturday 26 July), with the senior mens’ teams hosting Fitzroy, the women are at home to Albert Park, the Under 19’s travel to Trinity, while the Thirds play at Old Geelong at 9.20am.  We are approaching the business end of the season, and as always, greatly appreciate all the crowd support you give us on match day.
 
The seniors have four home games left, and the annual Wellsmen lunch will be held on 16 August when we play Old Caulfield.  It promises to be another great day - a chance to catch-up with old friends and reminisce about how much better a player you have become as the years pass.  Tickets can be purchased through the OCGAFC website.
 
Finally, the club recently lost one of its great characters, Graham Taylor.  Graham coached the Old Camberwell Under 19’s to a premiership in 1992, and remained a great support around the club during his son Ben’s five year career.  Graham attended many Wellsmen lunches and was much loved by those he interacted with.  He will be sadly missed.  Our condolences go to Ben and his family.  In recognition of the part the Club played in Graham’s life, a memorial service will be held for Graham at GBO at 2.00pm on Friday 25 July, with all welcome.
 
Until next week,

Go Wellers!

Gavin Powell
President