By Gary Stocks
If, as the adage suggests, playing form is reflected in training performance/attitude, then the O’Rourke Realty A-Grade team is in good shape as it prepares to meet last year’s premiers, Wesley Curtin.
The energy on the track – and the skill execution – was first class ahead of tomorrow’s showdown with Wesley at Percy Doyle Oval.
Stability within the team remains an issue with a cluster of changes, some of them forced by injury, but there are some handy inclusions.
Tough defender Andrew Langsford resumes, while the selection panel has promoted two debutants. Adam Duff has been rewarded for some outstanding form in the Credential Financial Services A-Reserves, while colt Nick Bowe will get his first opportunity in senior football.
The elevation of Bowe is a reflection of the colts program which boasts some exciting talent and hopefully his inclusion will pave the way for others to get a chance at the back end of the season. From a development perspective there can be nothing better than a taste of action at a higher level.
Forward Jackson Harwood, utility player Rohan McDonnell and ruckman Kyle Cranley also return to the A-Grade team.
With some changes in the senior grade, it creates a flow-on effect and three graduating colts from last year – Ben Bubnich, Jack Galvin and Sam Callow – all get an opportunity in a youthful-looking reserves line-up.
With a number of short term injury concerns the exposure for these younger players is a great fillip for the club and a strong pointer as to what the future holds.
North Beach supporters looking to obtain an even deeper insight into the future should get down to Percy Doyle early tomorrow to catch the Coast to Coast Imports Phil Scott Colts team in action against Wesley Curtin.
There is some exceptional talent in that group, many of whom will graduate to seniors next season. A number already have the physical capacity to mix it with men and will not be intimidated when they get their chance.
The club plays Wesley Curtin across all seven grades in what represents a stern test for all seven teams.
Fixtures
Saturday, July 12
O’Rourke Realty A-Grade
North Beach v Wesley Curtin, Percy Doyle Oval, 2.30pm
Credent Financial Services A-Reserves
North Beach v Wesley Curtin, Percy Doyle Oval, 12.35pm
Coast to Coast Imports Phil Scott Colts
North Beach v Wesley Curtin, Percy Doyle Oval, 10.40am
Cabling Network Solutions D1-Grade
Wesley Curtin v North Beach, South Oval, 2.30pm
Hybrid Linings D1-Reserves
Wesley Curtin v North Beach, South Oval, 12.35pm
Brett Jones Colts
Wesley Curtin v North Beach, South Oval, 10.40am
Express Bins E2-Grade
North Beach v Wesley Curtin, Charles Riley Reserve, 2.30pm
