The QBE Sydney Swans Academy U18 boys and U16 girls and boys teams were in action this weekend with mixed results for the Swans.
U18 Boys
GWV Rebels 9.12.66
QBE Academy 9.8.62
The U18 boys Coates League team started well against GWV Rebels in Ballarat but were overrun in the final quarter to go down by 4 points, defeated 9.12.68 to 9.8.62.
Coach Mark McVeigh said his side were in a good position to win the game with five minutes to go but the side broke down with the fundamentals of the game and got beat around the ball and stoppage when the match was on the line.
The positives out of the game was the team's attitude to their road trip which gave gave them every opportunity to win.
Better players were Caleb May in his second game back 207cm ruck, Indie Kirk, Jeromos Mills Vasas, Joe Harrison, Caiden Cleary, James Lugsdin and Max Rider.
U16 Boys
Meanwhile in Brisbane, the QBE Sydney Swans Academy Under 16 boys and girls played the Brisbane Lions Academy at their new facility in Springfield.
Coach Dean Kelly said his side showed some real determination to withhold the Lions late surge to win by 3 points in what was a great team performance.
On a big ground and battling the hot conditions the team played exciting football and followed the game plan well. There were standout performances from Noah Chamberlain, Lachlan Carmichael, Kaiden McNamara, Cooper Stewart, Jai Bowd and Beau Guthrie.
U16 Girls
The U16 girls came up against a physically stronger Lions team who were good in the contest with some skilled and talented players across the ground, defeated 81-23.
Coach Bron Gulden said the Swans took a little time to settle and realise their best opportunities were using their run and athleticism giving them several forward entries, but unfortunately were unable to convert on the scoreboard.
Lauren Appleby, played well in defence in her debut and was well supported alongside Tameka Chambers who was very good when she moved into the midfield. Lucy Finn stood out with her ruck and defensive work while Jenna Whitehand brought some great pressure up forward.
Next QBE Sydney Swans Academy games
Under 18 Coates League Men - Saturday April 15th v Oakleigh, 11am Swinburne Centre
Under 16 Girls - QBE Sydney Swans Academy v Gold Coast Suns, Tuesday April 11, Gold Coast
Under 16 Girls - QBE Sydney Swans Academy v GWS Academy, Friday April 14, Blacktown International Sportspark
Under 18 Girls - QBE Sydney Swans Academy v GWS Academy, Friday April 14, Blacktown International Sportspark
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