WA Makes Sluggish Start at U16 National ChampionshipsThursday, June 30, 2022 - 2:35 PM - by Mark Readings

WA has slumped to a 42-point loss to South Australia in the opening match at the NAB AFL U16 National Championships in Adelaide.

A poor first half was a major factor in the loss as South Australia booted 7 goals to 1 to enjoy a 40-point buffer at the main break.

WA coach Ross McQueen identified the major problems for the side.

“We took a while to get into the game.

They were cleaner at the contest, used the ball well and converted their opportunities in the first half.

We felt when they had control of the contest, they were able to connect better over the ground.

After half time, we settled and were able to play more of the footy we’d hoped for.

There were several promising signs in the second half,” McQueen said.

The WA coach praised his side’s ability to adjust.

“After half time we competed better at the contest, got first hands on the ball, won clearances, and moved the ball more quickly to allow our forwards to have an impact.

We struggled with the marking strength of the SA side, along with the speed they were able to play with, particularly in the first half,” McQueen said.

The coach praised the performances of Trent Hiscock, Chayse Martinson, Hugh Boxshall, Deian Roberts, and Harry Jones ahead of another road trip.

“We’ll train Thursday and Saturday this week and fly to Brisbane next Monday to play Vic Country on the Gold Coast next Tuesday.

I’m confident that we’ll play a strong WA brand of football.

The signs were there in the second half, with contested football and more confidence to move the ball aggressively.

The players were disappointed with the way they started game one.

We’ll be much better for the experience in Adelaide,” he said.

FINAL SCORE

SA – 11.12 78

WA – 4.12 36