Senior squad assistant coach Luke Taylor said he was proud of SCAFL’s efforts. 

“It was really impressive for the under 12s to win their age division,” Taylor said. 

Meanwhile, the seniors were not taking a loss to heart after losing 11.2 (68) to the South Coast’s 17.14 (116). 

“I thought our boys did really well. 

“The South Coast has been playing together for three or four years, while we have only just re-established ourselves,” he said. 

Head coach Adrian Pavese was unable to attend on the weekend, and Taylor thanked Paul Noack who helped from a coaching perspective on the day. 

“He’s heavily involved with the under 12s and he was already busy, so we really appreciate him jumping in and it’s good to have people like him involved.”

Taylor said the team was in the match for three quarters, with the South Coast pushing ahead in the final period. 

“Our tackling pressure was some of the best I have seen and our ability to be in every contest was second to none.

“The average age on our team is 20 or 21, we have a lot of young guys who are just starting their career.”

Bermagui’s Brent Ohlin kicked five goals, while Bega Bomber Scott Hay impressed on the field. 

“To kick five in a representative scenario is fantastic,” Taylor said. 

“Scotty Hay was outstanding, he is just a freak of a player.

“He plays on instinct, he dominated on the weekend and it will be very interesting to watch him develop.”

Meanwhile, Pambula Panthers midfielders Aaron Proctor and Justin Pilgrim excelled with their marks and contests of the ball. 

“They were excellent in the midfield, Justin and Aaron were both in contested marks and all over the ball.”

However, conditions were not ideal for play, with gusty winds up to 40km an hour taking its toll on the Stingrays’ shots at goal. 

Unfortunately, the squad’s captain Jack Murphy was injured just after half time and had to come off the field. 

“Not having his leadership and his quality around the ball hurt us a bit,” Taylor said. 

Despite the loss, Taylor said he was really happy with the performance and looked forward to working with the rep team in future. 

“We set the bar and now we just have to build on it again next year. 

“After playing the game, I think all the guys will put their hand up again. 

“It’s another big tick for the league,” he said.