Bill West
They just came at the right time for Lancefield Football Netball Club – two come-from-behind narrow football wins on Saturday in the lead-up to the club launching its special ‘150 Years of Football’ history book later this month.
There was jubilation among players, coaching staff and loyal supporters at Lancefield Park as the Tigers’ fighting spirit came to the fore.
Senior coach Tim Bannan had seen good signs when the Tigers tested a couple of the stronger sides, and this time they delivered, led in fine fashion by tireless captain-ruckman Tom Waters.
A very low-scoring match, with Melton Centrals leading 3.2 to 1.3 at the long break.
Earlier in the day, the Nathan Scott-coached Tiger Reserves kicked the last three goals to win by six points, providing further inspiration for the seniors as they ran onto the ground.
The third term was the one where the Tigers took control, lifting in various positions and using the ball well to outscore the visitors 4.6 to 2.1.
The much-needed victory was not far away, and the Tigers ended up winning 6.9 (45) to 5.5 (35).
Waters, MichaelT Conlan, key defender Luke Fellows, Zach Webb, Jack Dalgleish, and Lachlan Mitchell were listed among the better players, but they all earned special plaudits for effort.
The Tigers are certainly looking forward to being at home to Macedon this Saturday.
New president Joe Schembri, who has just taken over the reins from Paul Rix, was thrilled with the efforts on the field, praising the players and coaches.
Schembri was vice-president previously, and has had a very long association with junior football in Lancefield in various capacities.
His son, Reuben, is a very talented player sidelined for possibly the whole season after sustaining a knee injury in a pre-season match.
Chris Dynon is the new vice-president, and Schembri said the club wants to be part of the town, and would like many many locals as possible to become involved with the club in the future.
“This 150th year is a massive one for the Tigers,” the president said.
He confirmed that A-grade netball captain Amanda Bruce would be acting interim coach, filling the position vacated by Michelle Rix.
He said Michelle’s resignation was “unexpected”, and praised her for “a wonderful job over many years” with the club.
