The Reserves secured a hard-fought 2-point victory (41–39) over Plympton in a fiercely contested match built on discipline, defensive resilience, and commitment to the game plan. In a low-scoring encounter, our ability to maintain ball security, control possession, and defend desperately in key moments proved decisive.

A major strength was our adherence to our structures from the opening bounce. Our deliberate use of short kicking, disciplined ball movement, and willingness to spread the ground allowed us to control large portions of the game and limit Plympton's opportunities. Our defensive group was particularly effective, restricting time and space and ensuring the opposition never gained sustained control.

Our midfield benefited from Rory's dominance in the ruck, although our review highlighted the importance of maintaining roles and structures even when a clear individual advantage exists. Our ability to move the ball quickly through the corridor using a combination of handball and precise kicking remained a significant weapon throughout the match.

While Plympton enjoyed periods of momentum, particularly during the third quarter, we remained committed to the contest and ultimately produced some of our best defensive football in the final ten minutes to secure the result. Leadership feedback identified ball security and communication as key factors in the victory and major areas of improvement from previous weeks.

Overall, the win demonstrated character, resilience, and a renewed commitment to team-first football. It reflected a side returning to the fundamentals that have historically driven success: disciplined ball use, strong defensive structures, and collective accountability.

Heading to Plympton, the equation was simple – we needed to keep winning. What followed certainly wasn't our prettiest performance of the season, but sometimes you just have to find a way.

In a scrappy contest where poor ball use made life difficult for ourselves, neither side was able to take control and the game went right down to the wire. With the final siren gone, Plympton had a shot to win the game, but thankfully the kick missed and we escaped with a 5.9 (39) to 5.6 (36) victory.

Ash "The Stud" Rawlinson competed strongly in the ruck and was excellent with his follow-up work at ground level before unfortunately being forced out of the game early through injury. Down back, Micky G and Brooksy were reliable all afternoon, standing up when we needed them and helping keep us in the contest.

Through the midfield, Bill Newman and Stewy Watts were both outstanding in different ways. Bill did his best work at the coalface, winning important clearances and getting us moving from stoppage, while Stewy's work rate saw him taking marks and providing an option all over the ground.

It was a frustrating afternoon and a performance well below the level we know we'll need to produce over the coming weeks. But a win's a win, and finding a way to get four points when you're not playing your best football is important.

We move on quickly to Edwardstown away this week for a massive clash. The stakes couldn't be much clearer – win, and we secure our spot in the finals.

The team was absolutely fired up for this one as we took on Golden Grove at home. The last time we played Golden Grove, we came away with a massive win, so the vibe was positive heading into the game. However, we still had to perform. We brought in some heavy hitters in Jack Green, Adam Zen, Harrison George and Alex Breda, all suiting up for their second game in the D Grade squad. Their additions brought plenty of skill and leadership to the side.
The game started on our terms, kicking five straight in the opening term to Golden Grove’s one. Our midfield was getting plenty of the football and using it well, giving our forwards plenty of opportunities to hit the scoreboard. Golden Grove wouldn’t go away, though, and they battled extremely well for a team that hasn’t won a game all year.
To our credit, we were simply better in the moments that mattered. It was slightly frustrating to let them back into the game at times and only scrap through with a three-goal win. However, a win is a win, and boy, does that feel good!!

Final Score:
Pembroke 12.6 (78)
Golden Grove 9.6 (60)

Goal Kickers:
Jack Green – 3
Peter Jones – 3
Mitchell George – 2
Harrison George – 2
Jake Elias – 2

Best Players:
Mitchell George : With the help of his big bro, Mitchell had a ton of the football, kicking the first goal of the game to set the tone. His unselfishness was great to see, constantly getting his teammates involved.
Peter Jones : Peter was a huge help down forward, kicking three goals. His presence alone allowed the entire forward pack to thrive and created plenty of opportunities for those around him.
Jack Richards : Jack was our highlight down back and was rock-solid all game. He looked really strong with the football, moved it away from danger with confidence and didn’t shy away from contact.