Terrigal Avoca have jumped two games clear on top of the Black Diamond AFL Cup competition ladder after dominating Newcastle City Blues by 62 points, 18.11.119 to 8.9.57 in round 10 at No 1 Sportsground.
Touted as the 2014 Grand Final preview for many, the Terrigal Avoca Panthers came out all guns blazing, kicking six first quarter goals to two and putting immense pressure on Newcastle City from the outset. Newcastle City could not find any rhythm in their game despite captain/coach Courtney Knight trying to lift his side with both first quarter goals.
Terrigal Avoca led by 25 points at quarter time. Terrigal Avoca forwards Mitch Betson and Tom Head were causing major trouble for the City defenders with Betson kicking four, first half goals. New Panthers recruit Alastair Richardson was having a great game controlling the half back line and repelling many Blues attacks with ease, while Coach Chris Bishop played arguably his best game since returning from a knee reconstruction and added two first half goals for his side, as the Panthers extended their lead at the main break to 38 points.
Despite the half time reprieve, the Panthers dominance continued in the second half with James Webster and Damien Smith having solid games. Newcastle City’s Joe Reidy was a live wire throughout the day, but didn’t have much support from his team-mates as they struggled under intense Panthers pressure.
Terrigal Avoca again extended their lead in the third quarter and went to the 3/4 time break with a comfortable 46 point lead. The final term remained the same as Newcastle City continued to have no answers against a composed Terrigal Avoca side. Courtney Knight was the only outlet for the Blues as he kicked five goals. The Panthers Tom Head finished with three goals, while Mitch Betson kicked four goals in a best on ground performance. Other to play well for Terrigal Avoca were skipper Jayson Van Dam, Jay Lewis and Sam O’Brien.
Media release,
22 Jun 2014
Garry Burkinshaw, Black
Diamond AFL