Last weekend we played host to the Austin Crows at Old Shepard Park, Plano.

The last few games we’ve certainly been competitive against the Crows (2s), with a 2-1 record including a win against them at the 2022 Nationals. We knew they would include a few of their 1s players, and were borrowing a few experienced Devils to pave the way for some debuts of first gamers in the green. Unfortunately however, the competitive game we hoped for didn’t pan out as planned.

From the opening whistle, this game had a different feel, with the highly skilled and free flowing game being more physical than usual and the Crows came out the gate making sure we earned every kick, and when we did get a possession, the pressure was on. Austin opened the game with the first goal, but we were still in it pressing forward throughout the quarter and as we went into the first break, the Crows were slightly ahead with 3.2.20 vs 1.0.6.

The second quarter was just as ferocious as the first, and several Devils stood up to the challenge – John playing a great CHF role and calling with his characteristic ‘ball ball ball’ leads, Coombs played like a player twice his size throwing his body around and Jacobly, who joined us recently from the Crows, was in an under at seemingly every play and certainly didn’t hold back against his old team. Brett (inj), D Mase and Austin (both played for the Crows) were missed in our backline as we had to shuffle the squad about to plug their experience and defensive gaps, and we allowed the Crows to take some control of the game keeping the Devils scoreless while doubling their first quarter score – half time Crows 6.4.40 v 1.0.6

Bassy, who is usually a stalwart deep forward was asked to play further and further up the ground and made an impact, potentially (unfortunately for him) securing a spot further up the field for future games. Captain Marcus and ‘Big Show Smithy’ were also moved across half back to stem the Austin forward push, slowing the momentum they had going into the break. The Devils once again got the ball forward, but inaccurate kicking didnt get us back in the contest, with 2 points and 2 out of the full from kicks at goal – proof we need to slow down and take our time as we go forward. At the 3rd quarter break, Austin extended their lead 8.6.54 to 1.2.8.

The last quarter the game was already lost, but this was in fact our best quarter performance – testament to the fact that many of you didnt give up without a fight. Dan earned himself best a field with his non stop run all day in just his 4th game (including tournaments as 1) and we welcomed back GGG to game day, he racked up plenty of possessions and will be big this year is he can get to training. Congratulations again to the debuts of LeRoy and Jarek, who both performed well in their first games and will be solid with some experience and big boosts to the club. Cliff, Will Mussack and Chris James all consistent contributors on the day too.

Final score Austin 10.9.69 v Devils 1.4.10

September events:
Sept 9th – Devils hosting Denver and OK in Arlington
Sept 16th – Annual Gold fundraiser (even if you are registered via dues, help us raise funds!)
Sept 23th – Devils host Houston
Sept 29th – AFL Grand Final at the Wing’d Nut

We need your help with events, please contact Will or myself if you are able to assist with the golf day or AFL Grand Final. We need volunteers, raffle items, sponsors, additional golfers and more!