In a determined effort during Round 5, the Southern Cats Football Club (SCFC) showed grit and resilience, as well as sharing special milestone moments. Despite the score lines not going the way of the senior men and women’s sides in their fixtures against the Woden Blues, there were strong performances from a number of players.
PHOTO: The men pushed a strong Blues outfit all the way CREDIT: Luke Humphris
For the Southern Cats’ community women’s team, today, Saturday May 10, was a significant occasion with captain Sarah Burns celebrating her 50th senior game. The match, although challenging due to the women facing last year’s finalists, was highlighted by Burns’ strong leadership and presence on the field.
“Sarah was a powerhouse in the ruck and dominated contests around the ground,” said club president Anthony Sexton. The Cats fought valiantly to contain the Blues’ scoring, with Erin and Meg Pearce demonstrating commendable endurance and drive throughout the game.
PHOTO: Captain Sarah Burns (centre) celebrated her 50th match CREDIT: SCFC
Despite their efforts, the Cats succumbed to a 9.10 (64) to 0.1 (0) loss, limited on the scoreboard but not in effort. Defenders Lauran Crawford and Phillipa Goulding played crucial roles against Woden’s fierce attack, while Tayla and McKenzie Moore provided strong targets up forward.
The men’s Division Two team faced a stern test against last year’s runners-up. The Cats started brightly, leading early with goals from both Hayden Thompson and Hayden Richards. Sean Bourke, also marking his milestone 50th club game today, was pivotal in the ruck, offering the midfield prime opportunities. “Sean gave our midfield first use of the ball, which was crucial in the early stages,” noted Sexton.
PHOTO: Sean Bourke played his 50th game for the club – a strong figure in the ruck, and a key component for the Southern Cats CREDIT: Luke Humphris
Captain Alistair Pollard and vice-captain Jarad Clarke showcased precision in midfield, yet a potent 10-minute spell in the third quarter from Woden shifted momentum. Despite a big effort, the Cats fell short as the Blues played smart 4th quarter football, bombing inside the Cats defensive 50m line, and using the sideline to spoil well. The match concluded with an 11.8 (74) to 9.8 (62) scoreline, just two goals the difference. Hayden Thompson earned best on ground honours with his sharp marking and contributions to several goals.
Looking ahead, anticipation builds for Round 6 as the Southern Cats prepare to host their first home games of the season at Snowy Oval in Cooma. Notably, the women will run out onto Snowy Oval for the first time in club history as they face the Yass Roos at 10 am. Following this special moment and match, the men will take on the ladder-leading Murrumbateman Eagles at 12 pm, hoping to bounce back and secure a much needed win in season 2025.