Under 17 title goes to Breakers
Breakers take out Under 17. Photo: Dean Kirby.
The Coffs Harbour Breakers production line is as strong as ever as the club claimed a third underage flag in five years with a surprise victory over Sawtell Toormina Saints in the Under 17 competition.
Since the Breakers were formed at the conclusion of 2014 the club has played in the Under 18 (2015 to 2017)/Under 17 (2018 and 2019) Grand Final in each season. Wins in the first two years of this period were tempered by losses in the next two, but victory in this year’s decider ensures the club’s future looks bright.
Having not beaten the Saints since the first encounter of the season back in April expectation was high that Sawtell would claim the first flag of the day. The match was well and truly in the balance at quarter time with scores locked, before a second term goal kicking blitz by Breakers saw them post five goals to none and open a 28 point lead.
The third term saw scoring locked at two goal apiece which meant that the Saints had a lot of work to do in the final term if they were to break a 9 year drought for the club. It wasn’t to be for the Saints as they visibly tired in the last term whilst Breakers, spurred on by emotion, were able to kick another three goals and ease away to a comfortable victory.
Aden Van Ryswyk from Breakers was awarded the Nathan Harris Medal for Best on Ground. The team effort was highlighted by the sharing of goal kicking spoils between Jake Benson, Franklin Antonysamburuma, Quenten Close, and Jayden Kennedy who each kicked two.
Aden receives the Nathan Harris medal from Paul Harris
Angus Anderson played a lone hand for Sawtell in front of goal, with his three majors representing the team’s only goals.
Coffs Harbour Breakers 11.5 (71) defeated Sawtell Toormina Saints 3.6 (24)
Congratulations to Breakers on an amazing effort to have played in the last five Grand Finals of this grade, and for claiming their third flag in underage competition.
Despite last day disappointment, the Sawtell team has had an excellent season. With the core of their players age eligible for this grade again next season they are well placed to mount a serious challenge in 2020.
Both teams have a number of players that have doubled up in Seniors all season which emphasises how strong the Under 17 competition is.
A report on the Reserve Grade Grand Final will be online tomorrow (Wednesday 11 September).
