Sport
1 July, 2021
Coach’s instruction sparks Power
A SIMPLE, blunt message from coach Ben Walsh gave Kolora Noorat the form spike it needed in its 87 point win over Old Collegians last Saturday.
A SIMPLE, blunt message from coach Ben Walsh gave Kolora Noorat the form spike it needed in its 87 point win over Old Collegians last Saturday.
The Power was challenged by the Warriors early but responded to Walsh’s quarter time instructions much to his delight.
The second year mentor conceded Old Collegians “jumped us a little bit” with the Power chasing tail early despite entering quarter time with a two goal lead.
However, Walsh’s message sprung his side into action, with Kolora Noorat gaining control of the contest to slam home 12 goals to one in the final three terms en route to an 18.13 (121) to 5.4 (34) victory.
“We struggled early and they started really well, we were second to the ball and they took their chances as well,” Walsh said.
“It took us a little bit of time to click into gear and I was a little blunt in my messaging at quarter time about the way we wanted to play.
“To the players credit they responded and we clicked about halfway through the second quarter.
“It (our start) gives us something to work on but when we clicked into gear we ticked off most of the things we wanted to do.”
Walsh said his message focused mainly on his side’s endeavour rather than any tactical aspects.
“It was just simple things like intensity, effort and energy,” he said.
“They’re things you can control and when we’re up on our toes and hunting the ball we’re a good side but when we’re not, we’re not (a good side).
“It was a simple and blunt message at quarter time but after that we were able to play the game in our forward half and set up the ground the way we wanted too.”
Walsh said the response showed his side’s character, with all 21 contributing at his request.
“The players have high expectations of themselves and of the team but everyone contributed,” he said.
“Everyone lifted just before half-time and the thing is we’re still learning but we want to be playing our best footy in six to seven weeks which is what we’re focusing on.”
Walsh said his midfield group featuring Joel Moloney, Harry O’Sullivan, Luke McConnell and Nick Hoare were among his best players, while Jason Moloney and Justin Wallace also performed well.
The Power are now enjoying a lighter week ahead of this weekend’s bye, with the players to return to structured training next Tuesday.
“I’ve given the players 10 days to themselves to refresh but it still isn’t a time to rest,” Walsh said.
“Our leaders are really pushing everyone to make the most of this little window in terms of their fitness and the things they need to work on.
“I’m doing the same, I’m getting away myself and having a little break before we get close to the business end.”
On the netball court, Kolora Noorat suffered a 74-31 loss.
WhaWha Hapuku was once again best on court, while Kaylee Malady (21 goals) and Stephanie Cowley also performed well.