Nor-West Jets fell three points short of pulling off a major upset against reigning premiers Parramatta-Holroyd at Gipps Road in the opening round of the season last Saturday.
The Jets dominated possession in the last quarter but, despite kicking four majors, couldn't snatch victory.
Coach Brendan Howden said the game was lost in the first quarter when the Jets kicked two goals, seven behinds to the home team's three goals straight.
It was very disappointing to lose as we put ourselves in a such a great position to win," he said.
Parramatta's the benchmark of the competition and we showed we could match it with the best."
The Jets went into the game full of confidence after a good pre-season program.
Tall spearheads Tom Hickey and Jim Lavery caused the Parramatta defence plenty headaches and kicked five goals between them.
Fraser Thomson carried the ruck with enthusiasm before Nick Cain took over in his long-awaited comeback to the senior team.
Andrew Spring, Matt Blackborough and Clint Gardner put their bodies on the line in packs, and inspired their young team-mates.
The Jets new-found depth was also highlighted in a good performance by the reservegrade side.
The visitors were clearly the better side for three quarters, before being over-run by the experience of Parramatta in the last quarter.
"If these boys stick at it and start to believe in themselves, they too will be finals contenders this year and, as individuals, will be pushing for senior selection," Howden said.
The Jets have a bye before taking on East Sydney at Bensons Lane on April 27.
Final Score: Parramatta Holroyd 14.9 (95) def Nor West Jets 13.14 (92).
Goal Kickers: Tom Hickey (3), Chris Laing (2), Greg Wilson (2), Jim Lavery (2), Nick Milkins,
Fraser Thomson, Justin Tilson and Clint Gardiner.
Best Players: Andrew Spring, Mick Earl, Chris Laing, JimLavery, Clint Gardiner and Tom Hickey.
Reserve grade: Parramatta Holroyd 12.16 (88) def Nor West Jets 10.9 (69).
Last Modified on 27/11/2010 15:49
