Swans Media - Tanya Paolucci
28 April 2014 12:52 PM
The Sydney Swans reserves were able to withstand a second-half comeback in posting a thrilling one-point win over the Brisbane Lions reserves in Mackay on ANZAC Day.
Over 5,000 fans turned out to Mackay’s Harrup Park for the NEAFL’s ANZAC Day clash, which was played in fine conditions despite the region suffering a heavy downpour the day before.
Despite the clear conditions, the ground was still heavy underfoot, but the Swans managed to adapt and get off to a flying start.
The visitors booted the first four goals in the opening term, including two to Tim Membrey, before the Lions slotted two late goals to see the Swans reserves hold a 13-point lead at the first change.
Young gun Tom Mitchell played on the ball and was the team’s most dominant midfielder from the opening bounce.
The 20-year-old teamed well with the experience of Ryan O’Keefe, who thrived in the wet conditions, showing composure and was dominant in the clearances.
With Sam Naismith out with a knee injury, Toby Nankervis took on the majority of the responsibility in the ruck and lined up on Lions’ rookie Archie Smith.
Following last week’s breakout performance, which saw Nankervis boot four goals against the Suns, the teenager continued his strong form and provided good services throughout the match to his midfield team mates.
Dan Robinson, who has been a consistent performer for the reserves over the past two seasons, bobbed up in the second quarter with two goals, including a gift from a poor Lions’ kick-in, which helped his team to a 16-point lead at half-time.
The Lions reserves found another gear in the third quarter and came out determined to close the gap, but were plagued by inaccuracy in front of goal.
Despite dominating the majority of play and keeping the Swans reserves to just one behind, the Lions reserves’ wayward kicking of 1.6 for the term, saw the Swans with a five-point lead heading into the final quarter.
The Lions continued to press in the final term, but the Swans were stoic in defence and stood tall when the home side were threatening to score and held on to register a one-point win.
Harry Marsh, who was switched into defence in the second-half, was among the Swans reserves’ most impressive when the game was on the line, while Mitchell and Robinson continued to work hard throughout.
Young top-up player Jordan Foote produced a strong performance up forward for the Swans, while Membrey was the team’s leading goal kicker with three for the match, including the only goal in the final two terms.
The Swans reserves will enjoy a well-deserved week off with a bye and are next in action against the UWS Giants on Friday May 9 at ANZ Stadium.
Sydney Swans reserves 4.2 6.4 6.5 7.9 (51)
Brisbane Lions reserves 2.1 3.6 4.12 6.14 (50)
Goal Kickers: T. Membrey 3, D. Robinson 2, D. Towers , A. Davis
Best Players: T. Mitchell, T. Membrey, J. Foote, D. Robinson, T. Nankervis, H. Marsh
WOW......5000 turn up in RL heartland for a reserve match - just short of a West Tigers or Penrith home game!.....Wow just Wow!!!!
=D> =D> =D> =D>
liar extraordinaire 
