Sydney University were unable to claw back an imposing third quarter deficit, as they eventually went down by 33 points against competition heavyweights Belconnen on Saturday afternoon.
The Students finished strongly but were always on the back foot after a seven goal opening term from Belconnen blew them away. Sydney Uni fought back admirably in the second quarter, however Belconnen surged forward with a six goal third quarter that effectively ended the Students hopes. The score finished 16.18-114 to 11.15-81.
The Students showed flashes of the necessary defensive pressure when they held Belconnen to just seven behinds in the second quarter while also managing to outscore Belconnen in the fourth quarter – but it was not enough in the end.
Tim Barrett, Adam Campbell and Tim Barton all contributed with two goals apiece, while Alex O’Dea, Mathew Clarke, Tom Ayton, Benjamin Taggart and Jordan Weir each contributed a goal.
Senior NEAFL Coach Daniel Gilmore was disappointed by the erratic play from the Students and their inability to put together consistent four quarter performances against top teams.
“We didn’t apply ourselves for the full four quarters, didn’t stick to our structures and unfortunately we had too many players down on the day. Sadly the net result was a five goal loss,” explained Gilmore.
“I am disappointed for the players who applied themselves to the SUANFC brand. We look forward to playing last years premiers next weekend in Queanbeyan.”
Gilmore will be looking for a full four quarter performance if the Students hope to beat reigning NEAFL premiers Queanbeyan on Sunday at Dairy Farmers Park in the nation’s capital.