Dean Trevaskis
Sunday’s AFL Under-9’s game between Brunswick Valley Bulldogs and Byron Bay Magpies simply had the lot.
Two evenly matched teams playing in the spirit of the game, letting the footy do the talking.
There is no official scoring at this age level but each contested ball looked as though the Granny was on the line.
For the Bulldogs Tayeb Hazelwood was the calm defensive general working tirelessly to link with teammates down the ground. First-gamer Ethan Johnston impressed with his drive out of the centre and Sonny Garady sustained his effort through four quarters.
Both sides were explosive out of the middle, Ned Bailey winning some excellent clearances for the Doggies.
Ella Spice gave a lesson in persistence and her bro Liam split the big sticks with the final kick of the game.
Hats off to all players, coaches and supporters: great game, great attitudes.
