Katamatite halt Jerilderie’s finals hopes

Looking to continue their form, the Jerilderie seniors side faced Katamatite for the second week in a row in an elimination final.

Having beaten them the week before, there was a level of confidence that if the relentless pressure was upheld they could match and beat them again.

Unfortunately, the combination of a stiff breeze to the Katamatite end and the opposition breathing fire from last week’s results meant the Demons were left with a 27 point deficit at the quarter-time break.

Lachie Leeds slotted the sole goal for the opening quarter as Katamatite put on five goals.

The second term saw an even contest, with both teams trading blows to the scoreboard.

Tom Bryce was monstrous in the ruck as he battled with one of the better rucks in the competition.

Nullifying the ball ups and giving the midfielders some use around the ground meant the Demons were able to steady the ship and stop the bleeding.

But a couple of wasted opportunities in front of goal meant the margin wasn’t able to be trimmed heading into the main break.

Against the wind in the third quarter again, the Demons were able to pinch two goals and restored belief.

However, this wasn’t enough as Katamatite was able to kick five with the wind again and restore the lead they established in the first quarter.

Kane Hawkins provided class from the half backline, and was ably assisted by young Rory Knight, who has had a breakout year down back.

The belief from the young Jerilderie side never waived and this was evident in the final term.

Facing a 40 point deficit, it was never going to be an easy assignment.

However chipping away at the lead seemed to prove a success, as the Demons edged within 20 points midway through the stanza.

David Gregory peppered the goals, and there was genuine belief.

Ben Neeson found himself on the boundary paint, looked inboard for an option, summed the situation up, took a shot and flushed it.

Unfortunately Katamatite were able to find two goals against the wind and settled to run out winners.

Final Score: Jerilderie 9-10-64 def by Katamatite 14-5-89.

Best: Kane Hawkins, Lachie Leeds and David Gregory.

Despite a disappointing finish to the year, there is plenty to like about the progression of the side.

We now turn our attention to 2023 with a firm belief that we can contest with the best and go deeper into the finals.