MANNING Mustangs travelled to Kempsey for the Sir Doug Nicholls Round in North Coast junior AFL taking on the Macleay Valley Eagles in both under 11s and 13s.
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The 11s who started slowly, with the Eagles getting away to an 8-0 lead. However a late goal to Brenton Mance narrowed the gap to just one point at quarter time.
The game turned in the second quarter with an early goal to Dredon Griffis, followed by two goals to Isaac Luke, including a brilliant kick while surrounded by defenders well out from the goal area. The Mustangs took a solid lead of 14 points into half time.
A defensive third quarter ensued, with minimal scoring opportunities available for both sides and the Mustangs only slightly extending their lead.
But the fourth quarter saw the game open up with goals to Isaac Luke and Zac Thompson, along with two behinds from Meiha Griffis.
Tadgh Brislane was unlucky striking the main post twice, while Riley Hill was resolute in the ruck throughout the match. The Mustangs 11s secured an important 23 point win(53-30).
Game day then paused for ceremonious recognition of the inaugural Sir Doug Nicholls round, with Uncle Fred performing Welcome to Country and the smoking ceremony.
Eagles committee members spoke passionately of the role of indigenous players like Sir Doug Nicholls, and how all players can apply themselves and achieve great things. Nicholls was just 5 foot 2 inches (158cm) and played some 54 matches for Fitzroy in the VFL. A minutes silence and reflection completed the special ceremony.
A depleted under 13s then took to the field in warm conditions. Just like the 11s the 13s started slowly and found themselves trailing at quarter time by 13 points.
The Eagles consolidated further in the second quarter, with the Mustangs being clearly outrun falling behind by a 25 point deficit (33-8) at half time.
But the tide started to turn in the third quarter with a spirited performance lead by Rohnan Lamb and Jackson Griffin from the middle. Both booted goals with Griffin unlucky not to have more. Hamish Gallagher was impressive in his debut for the club, and Vykan Hart worked hard up forward.
A goal on the stroke of three quarter time by the Eagles though put a dent in the fightback, with the Eagles still leading 46-24.
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Fatigue set in during the fourth quarter with the Eagles capitalising, booting four goals and extending their winning margin to 46, with a 71-25 victory.
A number of injured players are expected to return to the 13s next week, which being the second Northern Division crossover round, will be timely.
The 11s will take on Nambucca Valley Lions and Bellingen Bulldogs at South West Rocks, with the 13s travelling to Port Macquarie to face the same clubs.
