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1974 SEASON
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GRIFFITH CLUB NOTES by Swan

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" April 21, 1974 - No. 1
None issued in The Aussie Ruler No. 1

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" April 28, 1974 - No. 2

Last week's effort by our Seniors was indeed a creditable one even though we failed to actually win the game.

With the return of a few of last year's players to the training track, we should build up a team capable of being a threat to the premiership.

It was good to see Gary Owen settling down this year and only picking on players ten feet taller than himself.

Others to do well were Sid Robins, Ian Wade, Bob Patterson, Darryl Collis, Roy Agresta and Trevor Miller.

The Seconds went down fighting, with Coolamon only drawing away in the last quarter.

The shocking wind conditions did nothing to improve the game as a spectacle.

Best players were Dennis and John Schmetzer, Bill Biron and Trevor Reed. The Thirds provided us with the only victory by winning by 21 points. Don Coleman won the award for best player.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 5, 1974 - No. 3

The ground conditions last week would have made the most neurotic of the Mud-Pie Making Association members very happily indeed - and yet 36 mad feet frolicked in the mud after a little hunk of leather.

Despite this, the game was entertaining on a mud sought of way. A certain number of our players seemed to have a fetish for the murky conditions; notably Roy Agresta, Gary Owen, Trevor Miller, Bob Patterson and Trevor Burdett.

One of our new younger players deserved a special mention for his excellent control of temper throughout the match.

Young Ralph Robins only swore at the umpire twice and threw the ball away only once - well done Rubber!

The Seconds sloshed their way to victory in slightly better conditions than the First Grade had encounter, although they looked a lot dirtier after the match. The cleanest man of the game award went to Bob Spears, who did not play.

The Cottees' Award leaders at the moment are Trevor Miller and Roy Agresta.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 12, 1974 - No. 4

A tremendous morale boosting win last week with all players figuring in the win over Leeton.

It was heartening to see the return to form of Ralph Todd and one of our "newer" players, Kevin Kirkpatrick.

Our better players were Trevor Miller, Martin Jackson, Darryl Collis and Trevor Burdett.

However, the win was essentially a team effort which is a very happy state of affairs for future games.

The Seconds were beaten by a stronger Leeton side.

They did make a comeback in the third quarter but could not only carry it on in the last quarter.

Best players were Trevor Reed, the Schmetzer brothers, Bill Biron and Joe Catanzariti.

The Thirds had a runaway victory, winning by 130 points.

The leader in the Cottees' Award is still Trevor Miller with nine votes.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" May 26, 1974 - No. 5

Our last competition game against Whitton resulted in a comfortable win for us.

It was disappointing to see such a slow start by our players but comforting to know that they can play better.

Our better players were Martin Jackson, Norm Anderson, Trevor Miller and Neville Brand.

Good to see Siddy Robins streaking down the ground into the forward zone in the last quarter.

The crowd was hoping to see him score the second goal of his football career (but he missed).

The Seconds scored an easy win in the early game. Bob Spears was again at the helm of the ship and he even played well (even though he did not get a kick). Best players were Bill Biron, Trevor Reed, Tony Agresta and John Schmetzer.

Trevor Miller is still leading in the Cottees' Award.

Another Club Social after the match - all visiting spectators and players will be most welcome in the club rooms.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 2, 1974 - No. 6

Not much to offer in the way of visual entertainment for the crowd last Sunday with a very poor standard of game. Our Seniors had an unusually excellent start with goals (and points) flowing abundantly.

The game deteriorated after that and became a succession of non-incidental incidents.

Best players were Bob Patterson, Ralph Todd, Darryl Collis and Trevor Miller.

The highlight of the Seconds' game was undoubtedly when the ball struck "Spiro" Spears viciously on the head.

The crowd was delighted to see him rolling on the ground in obvious spasms of sensual indulgence.

Others to play well were Gary Gardner, Garry Parslow, Tony Agresta and John Cafe.

The Thirds romped home in their game against Ardlethan.

Frank Valeri stole the limelight with an excellent 14 goals and three blood sucking's.

Stephen Best, Shane Best and Dennis Schmetzer also played their hearts out.

Congratulations to Peter Woodland and Denny Dreyer, whose wives both had baby girls.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 9, 1974 - No. 7

The pleasing feature of last Sunday's win against Ganmain was the consistency of play from our Senior side.

They never let up from go to woe and tackled their proverbial hearts out.

However, the huge crowd was disappointed that Sid Robins remained goalless for the match, but very happy to see him handle several opponents with relative ease.

Others to play well were Ralph Todd, Roy Agresta, Gary Owen and Martin Jackson - Grant Luhrs won the shirt award.

The Seconds added another victory to their collection with some gutsy football.

The game itself often lapsed into absolute bedlam, but on the whole, was pleasant to watch.

Best players were George Duncan, Gary Gardner, Garry Parslow, Bill Biron - even John Cafe and Don Coleman played well. Several awards for best players are running this year and it is appropriate at this time that we, as a club, officially thank the donors for their sincere support.

These sponsors are the Griffith Co-op and Courage (weekly award), Bob Carroll (Seconds) weekly award), Nev Dawson (Thirds weekly award) and Area News- Cottees" (prize for best and fairest). Their support is greatly appreciated.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 23, 1974 - No. 8
None issued in Aussie Ruler No. 8

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" June 30, 1974 - No. 9
None issued in Aussie Ruler No. 9

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 7, 1974 - No. 10

By Swan: Last week's cold, rainy conditions did little to colour the standard of the game against Ariah Park.

The match would perhaps have been closer if they had been at full strength.

However, it was pleasing to see the return to form of "younger" players - Ralph Todd and Kevin Kirkpatrick - well done, fellas. Others to play well were the Robins brothers, Glen Harrison, Norm Anderson and Trevor Miller.

The Seconds sprayed their way to victory, kicking 30 points for the match.

However, they did play constructive football, especially in the second half.

Best players were Garry Parslow, Peter Woodland, Gary Gardner, Neil Thompson and Ian Manning.

The Thirds were unlucky in their match against Forbes Marist Brothers College.

They were unable to notch a goal in the last minute of the game, although they had several opportunities.

The club would also like to extend its deepest sympathy to Tony Agresta - he got married last Saturday.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 14, 1974 - No. 11

A hard rugged game last week has put us in second place for the rest of the season - we hope.

However, there were a few anxious moments in the dying stages of the game.

Best players on the day were young Sid Robins, despite the fact that he failed to kick a goal.

Others to play well were Darryl Collis, Martin Jackson, Roy Agresta, Bob Patterson, Ralph Robins and Trevor Miller.

The Seconds reversed the first-round decision by convincingly defeating the Coolamon side.

Best players were Ivan Nancarrow, Bill Biron, Shane Best, Gary Gardner and John Schmetzer.

The Thirds had a convincing win over Coolamon.

Supporters are advised the club's Annual Ball is to be held on August 9th - ticket sales will be limited to about a thousand, so you all had better slip down to "Chow's Place" (Bob Carroll's Menswear) and pick up your tickets shortly.

Music will be supplied by the well-known Jock Strap and his Elastic Band. Committee members - next meeting, Monday 15th July.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 21, 1974 - No. 12

A heart stopper of a game against Grong Grong last week - the last 15 minutes deciding the eventual winner.

The game itself was definitely a real crowd "pleaser" and a lot of credit must go to the Grong Grong side for their display.

Our best players were Glenn Harrison, Sid Robins, Kevin Kirkpatrick, Ralph Todd and Gary Owen.

The Seconds had a runaway win over Grong Grong with a great display of team football.

Even "Spiro" Spears had a fair game after having returned from his spell at Taronga.

Others to play well were Garry Parslow, Neil Thompson and Bill Biron.

The Thirds were defeated by the strong Narrandera combination - a bit more teamwork needed fellows. Frank Valeri played well. Don't forget the social after the game tonight - everyone is welcome. Also don't forget the Club Ball on August 9th - get your party organised now.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" July 28, 1974 - No. 13

Aussie Ruler It was a close, hard battle last week against Leeton - nearly too close for comfort.

It was definitely pleasing to see the way in which the boys fought back after being down at half time.

We hope it is an indication of how we will manage in the finals.

Our best players were Gary (Ostrich) Owen, Trevor (Mahogany) Miller, Ralph (Truddling) Todd, Darryl (Cloppy) Collis and (Raving) Ralph Robins.

The Seconds stole the limelight for the day by defeating the previously unbeaten Leeton side.

They played with all the confidence in the world and were most impressive with their co-operative team effort.

Best players were Warwick (Cashew) Collis, Ian (Mungo) Manning, Don (Crunch) Coleman, Roy (Aspro) Agresta and Trevor (Ripple) Reed.

The Thirds won comfortably against Leeton, although their kicking left something to be desired.

However, they played very well with Shane Best, Frank Valeri, Dennis Schmetzer and Laurence Candusso being in their best players.

Don't forget the Ball on August 9th - tickets at Bob Carroll's Menswear.

Players had a great time at a "bucks night" last Wednesday - drinks kindly supplied by great supporter Bill Bock, to whom the club express its appreciation.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 4, 1974 - No. 14

Last week's game was highlighted by no highlights with neither side doing anything consistently brilliant.
Things are going to have to improve if we are to be a threat to the premiership competition.
Better players were Neville (Brocholi) Brand, Ralph (Tronkles) Todd, Bob (Prattle) Patterson, Phil (Smacka) Smith, Kevin (Krunk) Kirkpatrick, Martin (Jasmos) Jackson and Grant (Jesus) Luhrs.
The Seconds scored on of the biggest wins of the season. Bad luck to Horsey Gardner, who lost 12 schooners of beer to the back line - it was really a foolish bet, Horse. Best players were the whole team.
The Thirds had a good win at Leeton and further consolidated second spot on the ladder.
Neil (Dangling) Dal Nevo and Robin (Prancing) Parisotto played their socks off, whilst Laurence (Crunch) Candusso, Frank (Vumpurump) Valeri and Joseph (Candle) Catanzariti also played well.
Not long till the ball on August 9th - "Chow" reports tickets are selling well so call and get yours early. The players have raffle going - first prize is a dress steer - tickets available from any player for 50 cents.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 11, 1974 - No. 15

By Swan: Quite a few players were out last week but they did not miss much. The game was of a poor standard with weather conditions the same. We have three hard games in a row now, starting with Ganmain today.

Best players last week were Trevor Miller, Garry Owen, Ralph Todd, Martin Jackson and Phillip Smith.

The Seconds had another easy win against a depleted Ardlethan side. Bob "Arrow" Spears even kicked two goals!

Better players were Garry Gardner, Tony Agresta, Denis Tyndall, John Brennick and Peter Woodland.

Don't forget the social after the game - all are welcome.

Our ball was its usual great time last Friday - Belle of the Ball was Trevor Miller, who looked very "chic" in his new gear - loved the handbag, though it matched his shoes and wallet to perfection.

The "Belt" was undisputedly won by Keith "Butch" Thompson, and it was nice to see Bob Spears out with his wife for a change. A big welcome for a new player in number four jersey - believe he (Sid) has been touring Queensland for several weeks with a leading committeeman.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 18, 1974 - No. 16

A disappointing game for the crowd last week, but an important win as far as the final four is concerned.
We have now consolidated second position and also made it difficult for Ganmain to make the four.
Best players Bob (Patterson's Curse) Patterson, Neville (Wrong Brand) Brand, Sid (I've Been on Holidays) Robins. Ian (Paddy) Wade, Trevor (Scratch my Back) Miller and Roy (Microbe) Agresta.
The Seconds had one of their toughest games to date when they eventually defeated the improved Ganmain side.
Better players were Garry (Parsley) Parslow, Neville (Woodside) Hall, John (Betcha I'm a Schmetzer) Schmetzer, Bill (Iron) Biron and Warwick (Corrick) Collis. Best of luck to both teams to today's prelude to the grand final.
Griffith committee members - next meeting on Monday, 19th August - usual time - usual place.
Supporters - your last chance to buy tickets in the competition being conducted at present, with a Honda MR50 Minibike as first prize. Our thanks to Joe's Honda Centre, Les Wilesmith, Bob Little of Galloway's and Lionel Crump for their help in proving the prize which will be drawn on August 25th - for tickets see Bob Carroll.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" August 25, 1974 - No. 17

Last week's victory over Narrandera was a definite boost to our grand final chances.

The most pleasing aspect of the game was the fact that the win was a total team effort. Rumour has it that Trevor Miller will be on the bench again today with his partner Joey give-us-a-cigarette Whyte - bad luck, Joe.

Better players were Bob Patterson, Norm Anderson, Roy Agresta, Ralph Todd, Neville Brand and Phillip Smith.

The Griffith Co-op shirt award went to Roy Agresta.

The Seconds suffered a rare defeat at the hands of the strong Narrandera side.

This throws the competition into an interesting state with Ganmain, Narrandera, Leeton and Griffith in the running.

Better players were Bill Biron, Garry Parslow, John Schmetzer and Frank Valeri.

The best win of the day was by the Thirds. They toppled the previous unbeaten Narrandera side with gutsy football.

Better players were Greg Hill and Graham Manning.

It seem's that the club's 1952 premiership pennant has been misplaced - anyone knowing the whereabouts please advise Bob Carroll. The minibike raffle is to be finalised today - tickets still available at 20 cents.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 1, 1974 - No. 18

A rather unexpected lack of opposition from Turvey Park last week made the game a dismal spectacle for the large crowd. Our dashing centre half back, Sid "One Goal" Robins, was a clear winner on the day, but failed to score the second goal of his career when he dropped a beautiful hand pass from Ralph (Tiddles) Todd.
Others to play well were Trevor (Moffit) Miller, Ivan (Nude) Nancarrow, Bob (Poochy) Patterson and Glenn (Hank) Harrison, who won the Griffith Co-op shirt award.
The Seconds reversed their form of two weeks ago by soundly defeating Turvey. Best players were Garry (Mums Fast) Parslow, Bob (Wanda) Wilson, Neville (Hoop) Hall, Denis (Tropwollop) Tyndall and Bill (Banger) Biron.
All players and supporters are invited to the social night this Friday September 6th - best and fairest votes will be counted and this will be followed by a game's night - all are welcome.
Our Presentation Dinner will be held on Sunday, 20th October - rumour has it that South Melbourne's Peter Bedford will attend with several leading sporting commentators, led by ex. Griffith player Peter Booth.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 8, 1974 - No. 19
None issued in Aussie Ruler No. 19

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 15, 1974 - No. 20

Firstly, let us try to answer some of the criticism regarding the selection of Leeton for the first semi-final.

I would point out that the major centres of population, i.e. Leeton, Griffith and Narrandera are situated at the western end of the league and despite the fact that the two participating were from the eastern end (Coolamon and Ganmain), I feel sure the match attracted more fans than it would have at, say Matong, where, with due respect to that club, not to mention players, are minimal.

Couple this to the fact that the smaller towns have nowhere, such as cafe, clubs, etc., for the crowd to eat and/or drink after the match and it becomes obvious that the major matches must be played at venues already stipulated in the league's constitution.

Our congratulations to Coolamon on their fine win last week. They certainly showed they will be worthy opponents for today's loser.

Our congratulations to Narrandera as minor premiers in all grades - a feat unique in the history of the league.

Also to that club our best wishes for today, may the best team win - if it is not Griffith we will have no excuses, our players are fit, confident and eager for the match. May it be a great game and worthy of a big crowd what will no doubt attend.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 22, 1974 - No. 21

We certainly fell into a big hole last Sunday - our players just could not cope with Mr. Levens' decisions - but no excuses, congratulations to Narrandera on their fine win - we look forward to playing them again next week.

Our Seconds' team showed how it should be done. John Higgins was the star of the match with great support from Garry Parslow and Mops Hall. The Thirds suffered the same fate as the Firsts - trust we can do better this week.

Supporters are reminded of our dinner being held on October 20th at which special quests from Melbourne will attend.

A reminder also of our competition now in progress with first prize a 26" coloured TV set - tickets are $1.00 and are available from any player or committeeman - to be drawn at the dinner on the 20th of October.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "The Aussie Ruler" September 22, 1974 - No. 22

Despite rumours circulating in the South-West, there is definitely no truth in the yarn that Griffith will be changing their club colours to black and white vertical stripes. Even if we have been named "the Collingwood of the Riverina".

Never mind, no excuses, we will now concentrate on winning the Third and Second eighteen premierships today.

Our Thirds played great football last week for three quarters and lost concentration in the last to almost let Leeton take the game. A greater effort will be required this week if we are to win.

The Seconds have trained well during the last two weeks and are all eager for today's match, which will take a ton of guts and determination to win, so it's up to you fellows - show everyone that we can win premierships.

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