GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 17, 1986 - No. 18 

Little did we think about three weeks ago that we would be fighting for our very survival in the four. At that time, we were looking to finish in 2nd spot - how unpredictable is football. We now find ourselves in the unenviable position of having to virtually play a grand final each week to finish in 4th spot. What a dreadful day last Sunday in Wagga.

The Under 19's were beaten and now have no chance of being in the four. Their cause was not helped when one of the selected players failed to turn up and did not notify the coach or selectors of his non attendance. This meant a reshuffle of the team and with Peter Lonergan out with illness left the lads a bit short on the forward line. They battled well all day and to their credit did not give up. Graham Robinson won the pewter closely pressed by Mal Williams, Peter Royal, Mick Foxall and Darren Frank.

The 2nds were beaten mainly in the first quarter. After half time we managed to outscore the Bulldogs, but we lacked a forward line. Adrian 'Azza' Andreazza played well in the ruck, but we miss our hard-working secretary (Mike Thompson), who was tripping the light fantastic in the bright light of Sydney at a wedding. Tony Dillon won the pewter followed by Peter Casey and Andrew Smith. The 2nds have also missed their chance of playing in the finals this year.

After a great start in the 1sts many of our players seemed to fade into oblivion. It was great to see Neil Bruce back in the side and his presence was very obvious from the centre bounces, but the euphoria was short-lived as Neil again damaged the same hand and had to leave the ground. His place was taken by Shane McDermott but his time on the field was also brief as he dislocated a collar bone and took no further part in the game. It is doubtful whether he will play again this season. Hopefully Neil could be back for the finals!! In a game where we had few stars, particularly in the second half, the half back line stood out and deservedly Ian Geddes won the pewter as he led by example all day.

Good attendances at training this week and a positive attitude by the players will see us bounce back again this week and prove to all the experts that we are indeed contenders for the premiership NOT pretenders.

Let's strip the strips off the Tigers! Up The Swannies!

P.S.: Don't forget the Auction on Saturday August 30. We still want donation of items. See Ian Wade 622600 or Ray Davies 626511.

Notes No. 19 >>>