Magpies falter against Nar Nar Goon

DALYSTON knew it was going to be an uphill battle as it geared up to face top of the table Nar Nar Goon on Saturday.

The challenge was made all the more harrowing with five players out for the game, and the Magpies were disappointed to concede a 121-point win to the ladder leaders.

Despite the scoreline, the Magpies kept up with Nar Nar Goon in the first half, giving a commendable performance.

Dalyston was getting first use of the ball out of the centre, which kept it in contention early.

Jesse Orchard-Moore filled in for Kurt Thomas as a strong-bodied ruckman, giving Dino Karamoshos first hands to the ball.

Karamoshos capitalised on his capabilities of moving the ball out of the centre, using his speed and skills to send the ball into Dalyston’s forward line.

Dalyston had three goals on the board in the first quarter and was sitting just five points behind at the first siren.

Dalyston continued to work hard in the second quarter, only letting Nar Nar Goon get up by five goals.

With Ben Lewis absent from the backline, young guns Fraser West and Louis Armstrong worked hard to slow Nar Nar Goon’s attack.

However, once Nar Nar Goon had control of the ball, it didn’t waste its chances.

During the half-time break, the Nar Nar Goon coach said just enough to rev up the away side to leave Dalyston scoreless in the third quarter.

Nar Nar Goon continued to show its class through the fourth quarter, increasing its pressure on Dalyston and outrunning the Magpies through to the final siren. 

For Dalyston, Kyle Hutchinson worked hard all game and demonstrated why he is in contention for the league’s most valuable player.

Proving to be a real leader on the ground, Hutchison demonstrated great skills through the middle and was a tremendous asset on Saturday.

Brad Tilley was in and under everything all day and was not afraid of the physical contest Nar Nar Goon handed down.

Dalyston has been thrilled to have Cale Love-Linay back in its lineup.

Love-Linay was reliable all over the ground, showing classy skills and making a huge difference to Dalyston’s game.

Next week, Dalyston will be playing Garfield at the Garfield Recreation Reserve.

The Magpies are hoping to have a few players back for this contest and are looking forward to a competitive game.