Entertaining, hard-fought clashes

SIX of the Monbulk teams ventured to the picturesque town of Healesville to take on the under-9s, under-10s, under-11s, under-12s, under-14s and under-16s, while trying to dodge the very tempting nearby bakeries.
The under-9s shook the sleep from their eyes and entertained those watching.
Coach Aldridge was enthusiastic about the kids’ game, their willingness to share possession and really work together as a cohesive unit.
A long first season hasn’t dampened their willingness to learn and develop.
The under-10s came up against a determined Healesville side that really wanted the ball and were first to the contest.
One of the most difficult opponents for the team this season gave Monbulk a lot to work on during training and the final games of the season.
The team can now recharge the batteries over the holidays and prepare for next game.
The under-11s were slow out of the blocks, with Healesville kicking the first two goals. After quarter time, Monbulk hit its straps and kicked seven goals to one to come home with an impressive win. The slow start showed the team why they need to be switched on from the start.
The under-12s battled hard, but were given a football lesson from the top-of-the-table Healesville. Although not reflective on the scoreboard, Monbulk battled hard and can take many positives from the game and know what they need to do to better match such a quality opponent next time.
The under-14s continued on their merry way against Healesville. It was a scrappy affair, with Monbulk having to work through a tight Healesville defence. The team stayed focused and worked through the maze, and a good eight-goal second half saw the team come away with a 11-goal win.
The under-16s were up against a side that was higher on the ladder and had a good battle all day. A strong Monbulk first-half set up the win, with both teams evenly matched for the second half. Monbulk is now seeing the hard work at training over the past couple of weeks pay off.
UNDER 9
No score kept.
Awards: Jason Abraham, Charlie Hooper, Riley Bentley, Hamish Dickinson, Jaxson Aldridge.
UNDER 10
No score kept.
Awards: Gus Ryan, Sam Niclasen, Tommy McBride, Tim Rickard, Jamie Turpin
UNDER 11
Monbulk 7.8 (50) d Healesville 3.2 (20).
Goals: Farmer 2, Bateson, Finlay, Henderson, Komiazyk, Russell.
Awards: J. Turner, J. Farmer, J. Spencer, B. Stokker, J. Bolton
UNDER 12
Healesville 16.7 (103) d Monbulk 2.7 (19).
Goals: Ford, Green.
Awards: B. Sandler, G. Ross, B. Hughson, B. Smith, M. Doe
UNDER 14
Monbulk 10.14 (74) d Healesville 0.4 (4).
Goals: Finlay 5, M. Hill 2, te Boekhorst 2, Ross.
Awards: M. Hill, D. Sebire, L. Beecroft, J. Cresp, L. Dochery.
UNDER 16
Monbulk 9.12 (66) d Healesville 5.9 (39).
Goals: Hawker 2, Badgery, Barge, Cleary, Dousset, Ducrow, Edyvane, M. Hill.
Awards: R. Hawker, L. Hill, S. Bennett, M. Ducrow, J. Badgery.