The senior men’s Bull Sharks have taken a scrappy two-point victory over the Coomera Magpies, 6.2 (38) to 4.12 (36).
How it unfolded
The game kicked off with Matthew Smith scoring the opening goal, giving the Bull Sharks an early advantage.
However, both teams found it difficult to penetrate their opponent’s defence, resulting in a low-scoring and tightly contested first quarter.
Coomera came out stronger in the second quarter and managed to kick their first goal, putting more pressure on the Bull Sharks.
Throughout the match, both teams struggled with decision-making, hindering their chances of successful runs.
The Bull Sharks would gain ground but costly mistakes nullified their efforts, allowing Coomera to stay in the game.
By halftime, the Bull Sharks were trailing 13-17 and the absence of key players like Will King and Jack Tilley appeared to affect the team’s dynamic.
After a slow third quarter, the final quarter saw a resurgence in the Bull Sharks’ energy and determination.
Coomera managed an early goal that put them into the lead however Bond responded instantaneously with one of their own.
Their defence held strong in the dying minutes, preventing Coomera from snatching a late victory.
Who’s hot
Skipper Wyatt Bacon in the back lines was instrumental in intercepting numerous balls, preventing Coomera from building momentum.
Nathan Rataj and Ollie Burrows-Cheng each displayed their usual brilliance in the midfield, creating numerous turnovers that favoured the Bull Sharks.
Meanwhile Morgan Ferres and Tom Ferguson in the forward lines exhibited tenacity and skill around the ball, contributing significantly to the Bull Sharks’ success.
What they said
Step-in coach Tom Hanrahan was nerve-racked after the game.
“We knew Coomera were going to come out strong on their home ground, plus we had a heap of changes during the week so I’m very relieved to come away with the win,” he said.
“We probably didn’t play our best game of the year but I think it’s a good sign that we’re able to win a scrappy game when under a lot of pressure and undermanned.”
In other games
The reserves men suffered a one-point loss against Coomera with a final score of 52-53.
Cooparoo broke the senior women’s undefeated streak, winning 8-37.
Similarly, the reserves women lost 27-55 against Cooparoo.