Junior football kicks on

THE second round of junior football was played at the weekend, as clubs continue working to give their junior players a safe environment to enjoy their football in.

Anglesea Football Club junior coordinator Rebecca Gilbert said it was heartening to see the juniors enjoying their football after all the hard work and uncertainty.

“It’s great to have the kids back out there, I think they’re enjoying the distraction with everything that’s going on.

“It’s been a lot of work, but it’s been worth it to see the kids out there having a great time. That’s the rewarding part.”

In the Under 17 grading, Anglesea were narrowly defeated by Geelong West Giants 35-28, having led the first three quarters.

Torquay Papworth similarly led Queenscliff at three-quarter time, only to lose 51-39.

With Torquay Shearer also losing the only Surf Coast side to take victory in the age category was Torquay Jones. They showed no final quarter jitters, kicking 32 points to Newtown & Chilwell O’Dwyer one in the fourth quarter to win 92-23.

All four Torquay sides triumphed in the Under 15 Grading.

Torquay Dunston staged a dramatic comeback over St Joseph’s Black, kicking 21 points in the final quarter to win 56-51.

Elsewhere, Anglesea were defeated by Leopold 1 84-50, meaning they finish the two grading rounds with one loss and one win.

Torquay Canning finish with a similar record in the Under 15 Female grading, losing to Leopold 20-14 after defeating Bannockburn in their first match.

Torquay Boyse, however, finish grading with a perfect record after beating Barwon Heads 37-8.

The younger age categories did not have any grading matches, and subsequently played the second round of the shortened home and away season.

Gilbert said she was pleased to see everyone enjoying the games and observing protocol in the opening rounds.

“It’s a different year. The parents have been really great at doing the right thing.

“It’s been really great to have footy back. Obviously, we’re all missing senior football, so it’s been great to at least get a little bit of junior stuff in, and hopefully it continues.”