Rams gallant at Nationals

The youngsters were standouts on Saturday as the Rams held their own for two quarters against first-division side South Australia, eventually losing 17.13 (115) to 10.7 (67) .

Son of late Essendon champion Merv Negale, Jydon showed glimpses of his father’s traits, booting three goals and recording six inside-50s at Blacktown International Sportspark.

NSW/ACT Coach Jason Saddington said: “Jydon was able to win his contests in air and on ground… he worked hard both offensively and defensively and was rewarded with a couple of goals.”

Michael Gibbons was another one of the Rams’ best, gathering 29 disposals, including nine clearances and 12 tackles.

Saddington was proud of his whole side’s ability to stick to their structures and control stages of the game.

“The biggest positives from the weekend were the player’s ability to apply good pressure on the opposition for periods of the game,” Saddington said.

“The challenge for the next game is the consistency with our defensive effort.

“I thought we controlled the ball really well and were able to generate some great scoring opportunities when in possession.”

NSW/ACT started the game strongly, kicking the first two goals to go to quarter-time two points down.

The Rams went to the halftime break down 28 points, still clinging on to match.

But South Australia kicked five unanswered goals in seven minutes during the third term to put the game out of reach for the hosts.

“It was a pleasing performance, although you never like to lose games of footy even against the best,” Saddington said.

“South Australia fielded a strong side and I felt our boys were able to carry out the game plan and control parts of play for large amounts of the game.”

The match against South Australia was one of two cross-division sides NSW/ACT will play in the coming weeks as well as three matches against fellow-Divison 2 sides. The Rams’ next match will be in Melbourne against Division 1 side Vic Metro this Saturday. 

NSW/ACT:            3.1 5.2 7.4 10.7 (67)
South Australia:   3.3 9.6 14.9 17.13 (115)

GOALS

NSW/ACT: Neagle 3, Edwards 2, King 2, Gibbons, Eastman, Austin
South Australia: Harvey 4, Hourigan 4, Karpany 3, Scharenberg, Spina, Dunstan, Johansen, Wilson, Reynolds