The Warwick Gardens Galore Redbacks suffered their fourth significant loss of the AFL Darling Downs Allied Senior Men’s season going down by 112 points to the South Burnett Saints on Saturday in Warwick.
The final score of the round five match saw the visitors win 16-20 (116) to 2-2 (14).
Coach Tyhe Clarkson said the Saints set the tone early, scoring four goals to none in the first quarter, while the Redbacks managed just a single point in response despite their best efforts.
The second quarter saw the visitors extend their dominance, adding another six goals to their tally. Their hard-running and superior fitness made a clear difference, and though Tyhe Clarkson managed to kick the Redbacks’ first goal, the half-time margin ballooned to 62 points.
During the break, the Redbacks focused on holding their tackles and creating space.
Clarkson said his side showed improvement in the third quarter, restricting the Saints to two goals and scoring one themselves.
Brendan Iles crumbed Tom Clark’s shot at goal and converted on the goal line, marking a small victory for the team.
However, the Saints finished the game strongly, adding another four goals in the final quarter.
Fletcher Brown, who kicked six goals, was a standout performer and clear best on ground.
Despite the loss, several Redbacks players delivered commendable performances.
The midfield trio of Clarkson, Grogan, and Wall were consistently active throughout the match, with Grogan having his best game of the season by being a strong target and tackling effectively.
Patrick Johnson was a stalwart in defense with several crucial spoils.
Newcomers Gus Macdade and Pat Brown debuted solidly, slotting into the defense and using the ball well. Jake “the Earthquake” Willett had a significant impact, rotating from defense to ruck, laying strong tackles, and repelling the Saints’ forward thrusts.
Goals: Clarkson 1, Iles 1.
Best: Grogan, Clarkson, Johnson, Macdade, Willett, Wall.
The Redbacks have a bye this weekend, returning in round seven against South Toowoomba at Southern cross oval in Toowoomba
