Round 9 of AFL Masters SA saw the Riverland Superdogs travel to Two Wells to meet Pooraka. A strong breeze and showers in the second half made for difficult playing conditions. The Superdogs were slightly undermanned for their first away game of 2022 but fielded a very committed team of players. Pooraka fielded a big, mobile and relatively young side. Although not spiteful the game was played at a level that did not always necessarily reflect the philosophy of “Football for Fun”. Even so, some excellent football was played by both sides. However the size, pace and discipline of Pooraka allowed them to quickly gain the upper hand.
Pooraka had first use of the wind and by quarter time had kicked four goals while keeping the Superdogs scoreless. Onballer Dale Lellmann and ruckman Greg Schloithe never stopped trying and were well supported by Rob Romeo, Dave Ireland and Blake Weirda.
Despite having the use of the wind in the second quarter the Superdogs were again outscored 4 goals to one. The pressure was relentless and it was a credit to the Dogs that they stuck to the task and repelled many forward forays by Pooraka. Dave Setchell was doing his best to keep the Pooraka forwards honest and did not relent all day. Forwards Shane Healy and Jason King also tried hard to get the Superdogs back into the game but without luck. At the long break Pooraka led the Superdogs by 51 points. Retired Superdogs legend Rick “Haystack” Frahn addressed the players and told them they were playing well and to keep on giving everything they had.
The third quarter was fast and furious, however the luckless Dogs were only able to score one goal from limited opportunities. Pooraka again kicked 4 goals and led by 69 points at the final break.
The final quarter was much the same as the third except that the ever reliable Anthony Rothe sustained a groin injury and had to settle for manning the goal line. In a comprehensive performance in challenging conditions Pooraka completely outclassed the plucky Dogs to record an 88 point victory.
The Superdogs next game is on August 14 against Tea Tree Gully at Lyrup Oval.
Final scores:
Pooraka 16.12.108 def Riverland Superdogs 3.2.20
Goal scorers:
J King, S Healy, B Weirda
Best players:
G Schloithe, D Lellmann, D Setchell, J King, B Weirda, R Romeo
Location
LOT, 43 Old Port Wakefield Rd, Two Wells SA 5501, Australia
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