Raiders 7.4.47 lost to Cranbourne 9.13.67
Goals: Beasley 2, Barker 2, Park, Giles, Lewis
Best: Lewis, Monk, Park, Magennis, Grimmond, Charlton
From the outset, the effort and determination was evident in the Masters team and it was clear we had come to play with a point to prove. We got off to a good start with Maney getting an early goal and well supported up forward by first gamer Barks. Cranbourne had their chances but did not convert with Bradders making life hard for former Raider, Ash Jennings. The desperation in a very even team effort was a pleasure to watch. We went into the last quarter a goal in front and it was only injuries in the last quarter that left us with only 16 on the field that was the difference. It showed that when 100% of the effort is shown 100% of the time, then as a team we can match it with anyone. The midfield were superb all day without a ruckman, with Morgs and Noons doing the honours until Budge helped out for a couple of quarters. Parksy held down centre half forward like he’d been playing there all his life whilst Byron and Jay on their wings did great jobs. Grimmo again at centre half back was terrific and then also in the ruck in the last quarter tried very hard. It’s hard to be pleased with a loss, but I reckon this is as close as you can get. As Biscuits said “we might have lost on the scoreboard, but I reckon we had a win today.” One of the gutsiest Raider performances I have seen.
Special mention to Maney who was terrific all day at full forward and had several score involvements, including kicking two for himself. Special mention to Morgs who did a great job as usual both in the ruck, around the ground and then down back. Special mention to Bradders who battled against a taller, larger opponent and had his measure. Special mention to the bloody whole team. Great effort.
Thanks to Mick Hester, Budge, Bradders, The Riddler, Dazza and Gilesy, who helped us out by doubling up, with both Gilesy and Dazza suffering injuries for their trouble. Thanks lads.
PS Just realised that Byron played his 50th game today. Played his 49th in the Masters and then quickly followed it up for the 50th in the Supers. Congratulations Byron!
Cheers Slugga