By Des Rolfe

In a feisty, intense opening quarter the Cutters ventured into the Croc Pit on Saturday determined to come away with four points.  

The twilight match was played in blustery, cool conditions and was played at a blistering pace in the first half.

As usual, Crocs coach Brad Cooper had been forced to stitch together a new-look team in which half of the playing personnel were newcomers. 

South Cairns were a little more advanced in their fitness and team work and in the end this proved the difference between the two teams.  

For a group having their first serious hit-out of the season, the Crocs showed they will not be far off the pace as the season progresses.

Newcomers who attracted attention during the game for the Crocs included Chris Adams, Thomas Clough, Darren Garth, Michael Klein-Boonschate, Josh Lea and Damien Williams.  

James Mueller was prominent in the ruck. 

Of the 'old brigade' players who stood out assistant coach Adam Boone - who took the scintillating mark of the day, - Daniel "Turtle" Cross, Joel Lawlor, Kaine Freyling and Rowan "Zinger' Hanley all played well.

Congrats to the Cutters on their five goal victory. 

Next time we meet, the Crocs boys will be determined to avenge this defeat.

The Reserves match between Crocs and Cutters was a high standard game with youthful exuberance and fast open football on display.

For the Crocs Max Petrack, playing his 100th, and last game for the club, was vigorous around the packs and capped off his day with a nice goal.  Well done Max!

17-year old Ashley Davidson showed the large crowd that his blistering pace allied with his excellent ball skills will make him a star in the future.  

The Crocs' young tall brigade stuck to their task well all game and kept the score-board ticking over.  

Mitch Boehm, Ethan McCullough, Nathan Evans and Liam Edwards all contributed well.

Newcomers Scott McKay, Keslan Jennings and Peter Reid all came under regular notice through the game.  

Hayden Bogicevic, back after an advance also did well.  Joel Roennfeldt had a day out in front of goals kicking six majors.

Reserves coach Linton Heffer would be very satisfied with the will to win shown by his squad. 

RESULTS

SENIORS: Port Douglas 8-10-58 were def. by Sth Cairns 12-15-87

Goals: T. Clough 2.  A. Boone 2.  D. Williams.  J. Lea.  B. McKeown.  D. Garth

Best: T. Clough.  D. Kelly.  M. Klein-BoonSchate.  J. Lawlor.  B. McKeown. K. Freyling.

Reserves: Port Douglas 15-13-103 def. Sth Cairns 9-5-59.

Goals: J. Roennfeldt 6.  P. Reid 2.  A. Mcleod 2.  A. Davidson.  M. Petrack. J. Roberts.  H. Bogicevic, S. McKay.

Best: J. Roennfeldt, H. Bogicevic.  A. Davidson. S. McKay.  K. Jennings.

Next match is away at Cazalys against Manunda Hawks.  Seniors play a twilight game at 5pm. Reserves at 3pm.

GO CROCS!