On Saturday Port Douglas Crocs travelled to Cazalys to do battle with Manunda Hawks. The game was played in very trying conditions with a fierce wind making things difficult for the footballers.
 
In the first quarter the Hawks kicked with the aid of the wind but the Crocs' boys put in a mighty effort and with their three goals on the board outscored their opponents.
 
Inexplicably the Crocs' accuracy around goal deserted them and even though they had the assistance of the wind in the second quarter, could manage only to rattle on point after point. 

It was great to see Chasely Nandy, an Under 16 lad, take part in his first senior game in Crocs' colours.
 
The second was a tough quarter for the Crocs as the boys managed to kick only four points whilst the Hawks slammed on five goals.
 
The third quarter was an even, arm-wrestle tussle with neither team willing to wilt, but the Crocs were not able to bridge the gap in the scoreline.
 
Poor kicking by Port Douglas in the last quarter sealed the team's fate and although the Hawks didn't run away with the match the Crocs were unable to make up the deficit. 
 
Next Saturday Port Douglas is at home to Centrals.
 
Manunda Hawks 12-8-81   def. Port Douglas 7-11-53.
 
Best:  K. Bradshaw.  J. Smith.  G. Jacks.  D. Wearmouth.
 
Goal Kickers: A. Boone 2.  J. Smith.  S. Gribbon.  J. Brown.  G. Jacks.  M. Nuggin

Port Douglas Reserves were also unsuccessful in their match against the Hawks, lacking firepower through the mid-field, and consequently greatly reducing the scoring opportunities for the boys up forward.  Another Under 16 boy Jake Muia made his debut performance and did well.
 
Hopefully the team can get back on track in the next two weeks to set themselves up for a good run into the finals.

Manunda Hawks 8-6-54 def. Port Douglas 4-11-35.
 
Best:  H. Bogicevic.  C. Bertram.  L. Butterss.  J. Ramsay.  M. Petrack.  C. Pattinson.
 
Goal Kickers:  S. Evans 2.  J. Wilkie.  P. Barnett.
 
GO CROCS!