Special Edition – Round 15 Academy Wrap Up
Players Fielded
- Connor Rous
- Moses Faaola
- Nathanael Mooney
- Ryan Grocott
- Paul Faaola
- Laura Cameron
- Zeke Melmoth
- Titan Sega
- Moses Poreo
- Aisea Taupeamuhu
- Melvin Posetta
- Lachlan Tindale
Grades Represented
- 1st Grade
- 2nd Grade
- Colts
- Women’s Xs
Results
- 1st Grade 41-17 W
- 2nd Grade 24-17 L
- Colts 26-10 W
- Women’s 38-15 L
Overview
Another big week out there in Academy land with the trip down to Phillip and the Brumbies U19s in full swing the guys have been pretty hectic.
Training has been hit and miss with the weather, but everyone is adapting well to whatever is thrown at them.
Congratulations to the colts squad and staff, their win on Saturday means that they sit 11 points clear at the top of the table with 2 games remaining.
Now maths isn’t my strong suit, but I think that makes it pretty difficult for them to be dislodged! 8 of our lads were in the starting lineup this week, and one on the bench and 16 points coming their way.
My first shout out goes to Aisea Taupeamuhu. Izzy has been working hard on getting ball in hand and was able to make some great meters this weekend with strong running, speed, and footwork.
I’m looking forward to seeing more of this as we approach the finals. Ryan Grocott seemed to have found his spark this week, scoring two great tries and regularly troubling the defence. I was also really excited to see Lachlan Tindale step up his collision work on the other wing, making for a dangerous back 3.
As ever Paul Faaola’s midfield defence was strong. Although he didn’t see much ball this time around he did well when given the chance.
Closer to the action Nathanael Mooney and Melvin Posetta were dominant ball carriers and are covering more ground every week. An absolute testament to the hard work they are putting in.
Titan Sega has been working on decision making and scrum defence which was on full show from this powerful unit.
In behind the three big fellas was Moses Poreo. Mo brought plenty of energy to the game and is starting to find his rhythm after returning from injury. Some more confidence and we will see him back at his best and at just the right time.
Late in the second half Zeke Melmouth came off the bench and was busy as ever out wide. I have been impressed with his kick-chase all season and this week was no different.
Royals came away with the bragging rights in Second Grade this week in a hard-fought game. Moses Faaola and Conor Rous started the game and were joined by Mooney, Mo P and Lachie in the second half.
Mo F had a solid game, defending well and carrying hard yet again. With some tweaks, he is going to be pretty dangerous in the next couple of weeks. Connor Rous marshalled the troops well with plenty of communication to the pack. His passing game was solid and covered a lot of ground appearing everywhere.
On the other field the Ladies were in action in what would prove to be their last game of the season. Playing on the wing Laura Cameron had a pretty wet track to contend with, but continued her theme of hard carries and good footwork she made good metres time and time again.
Defensively there was a massive improvement in alignment and technique from last week which was great to see as this was an area of focus. Laura has had a wonderful season here at the Eagles and has been a stand out in physicality, enthusiasm and an appetite for learning. I cant wait to see what the future holds for this promising young lady.
Titan Sega was part of the 41-17 thumping in first grade coming off the bench in the second half. It was great to see him out there competing well for a shirt and looking the part. More to come from this chap me thinks.
So, it’s off to Uni-Norths this weekend for some more cold, wet rugby. It always promises to be a physical day so expect to see plenty of sore bodies. Can’t wait.
Stuart Crew
Gungahlin Eagles U20 Academy Coach
P.s. Maybe they’re all special reports?!
On a separate note, the Gungahlin Eagles are calling for expressions of interest for the following club coaching positions in 2022:
- Head Coach & Premier 1st Grade Coach
- Premier 2nd Grade Coach
- Premier Colts Coach
- Rugby 7s Coach
Everything you need to know: http://www.gungahlineagles.com.au/featured/2022-coaches-eoi/