THE South Pacific AFL team has finished in third place in the 2018 QLD State under-18 Championships in Australia when they beat Brisbane South 49-42.
Development manager South Pacific Ben Drew said it was a terrific way to finish a great week for the team with a hard fought win over Brisbane South.
“Right from the start our boys were ready to play, coming out kicking four goals to one in the first quarter. Brisbane South hit back in the second quarter to level the scores and the third quarter was even with Brisbane South holding a slight lead heading into fourth quarter time,” he said.
“Our boys dug deep in the last quarter kicking two gaols and defending extremely well to register a seven point victory and finish in third place for the championships.”
Drew was impressed with the defence as the players fought back in the last minutes of the game.
“Robawoun Atsime and Rex Peregua dominated across halfback with Rex working hard forward to kick three goals. Balthasar Talanai and Curtley Ila rebounded the ball well and Sitiveni Saru locked down his opponent and did a tremendous job is stopping many forward entries.
“Our backline really stood up today (yesterday) under immense pressure. Today our midfield was led by Jone Radua who didn’t lose a ruck contest providing Xavier Kombong and Rapoama Bola first use of the ball winning many centre clearances.”
“Our wingers Jason Logi and Desire Timothy found plenty of space and moved the ball forward with ease. Our midfield worked hard forward to provide opportunities for our forwards to score, but most pleasingly they worked extra hard in defence, regularly getting back to support our back line and rebound the ball forward.”
Drew said the forwards defended well and didn’t allow Brisbane South to rebound the ball.
“Overall, our boys gave everything they had and came away with a much deserved victory to finish 3rd. “The coaching and support staff can’t tell everyone enough how proud we are of the efforts of each and every one of the players. They have done everyone at home proud and represented their families, communities and countries with honour,” Drew said.
