Pups Battle in Spirited Intra-Club Clash at the Kennel

U10 Red & Blue

THE future of the Phillip Island Bulldogs was on full display this weekend as the junior "Red" and "Blue" teams faced off in a spirited intra-club match. Despite a cool eight-degree morning, the action on the field was hot from the first bounce in a game that showcased tenacity, teamwork, and a thrilling change of momentum.

The first half was a tale of Red team pressure. From the outset, the Red side dominated possession, keeping the ball locked in their forward 50 for long stretches. The Blue team's defence was tested early and often, but they held firm with standout efforts, consistently in the right place to intercept and clear the ball.

After a tough, contested struggle, Red's persistence paid off with a goal, giving them a well-earned lead heading into the later quarters.

While the Red team managed another quick goal after the main break, the tide began to turn in the final term. In a dramatic shift, the fourth quarter was all Phillip Island Blue. Finding another gear, the

Blue side took control of the contest, surging into their forward 50 on at least five separate occasions and putting the Red team's defenders under immense pressure. The match was marked by fierce tackling and relentless effort from players on both sides. Blue's Harper Dykes was a force in the packs, while Red's Quil Edwards took several crucial marks to stem the Blue tide, both deserving winners of the Beau Vernon Medal. 

U10 Blue Award Winners
Beau Vernon Medal - Harper Dykes
Awards - Kody Sheers, Judd Lock, Lachie Dallinger and Billy Kimber.

U10 Red Award Winners
Beau Vernon Medal - Quil Edwards
Awards - Levi Dedrick, Xander Janssen and Mason O'Connor.

Under 12 Blue

And so kicks off another round where the under 12 Blues come up against the Reds on a stunning day on home turf. Captain Cody Naismith revved up his team with an inspirational captains address to play hard up against the reds.

This game saw the return of Jackson Rodakis after a stint on the sidelines from a knee injury, who looked hot to start in full back position.

Ray Wolfenden started in the ruck, William Laughton-McConnon was sensational all over the ball with strong defensive pressure and Noah Hollings had great space. Sam Martindale was strong in the contested ball and denied the reds the ball. Only scoring one point for the quarter the Blues were down by seven points at the quarter break. Blues 1 - Red 8.

Second quarter saw a quick response with reward for effort from the Blues. The pressure from the Blues was brought up a notch, a goal rolled in for Rylan Lucas, and a quick goal from Jobe Lock saw the Blues hit the front.

Kash Scheibel ran in to convert a mark in the goal square to a goal with support from Sam Martindale and Jett Fawaz. Half time Blues 22 - Red 6.

A really good third quarter with a strong work rate to maintain the lead.

Yadin Kershaw set up play in the forward and scored a goal, it was high pressure footy with Louis Brodie doing a great job in the ruck. 

The final quarter saw great movement from the Blues, Ollie Hellmuth-Pask's dash on the wing was amazing, Zed Findlay was a strong backline player with great marking skill, along with Captain

Cody Naismith who was solid also in the last line of defence. Otis Joyner moved the ball well and had a fantastic last quarter. Kash Scheibel kicked the sealer, and earnt himself the Beau Vernon medal for his top effort. The Umpire congratulates both teams on a great game, and said footy was the winner today.

Final score Blues - 37 - Reds 21.

Under 14 Girls

Despite the scoreboard, the Phillip Island U14 girls showed incredible spirit and determination in their clash against Inverloch. Captain Ellie Hughes led by example, attacking every contest and was deservedly awarded the Beau Vernon Medal. The girls had several promising opportunities but were just unable to convert in the final metres. Hazel impressed with her relentless on-ball pressure, while Hailey’s work in defence and midfield was tireless. Sera gave her all in every position she played, and Holly’s run and carry helped move the ball into the right areas. The team’s resilience reflects a young group growing stronger each week.

Phillip Island U14 Girls Match Report Inverloch 75 def. Phillip Island 0

Under 16 Girls

It was a beautiful day on Phillip Island as the Bulldogs U16 Girls took to the field against Warranor – and they certainly didn’t disappoint. With blue skies and a strong home crowd behind them, the girls put on a great display of footy, taking the win 56 to 23.

The standout on the day was Olivia Holmes, who kicked a brilliant five goals and was awarded the Beau Vernon Medal for best on ground. Olivia worked hard all over the ground and showed great leadership, especially inside 50.

There were strong efforts right across the team. Bethany Grenness was solid through the midfield, Piper Nicolaci kicked two goals and Jasmine Trapnell was also strong in the forward kicking a valuable goal for the Bulldogs.  Sadie Davies pushed forward, Stella Tilley, Mia Ward, Tess Ricardo and Georgia Niven were strong in the back line while Ruby Kent, and Mackenzie May helped keep Warranor quiet with strong defensive pressure.

Coach Justin Tilley said it was one of their best games of the year:

“The girls played for each other. They backed themselves in, and it really paid off. I’m proud of the effort from all players.”

Final Score: Phillip Island 8.8.56 def Warranor 3.5.23

Goals: Olivia Holmes 5, Piper Nicolaci 2, Jasmine Trapnell 1