LEETON-WHITTON'S under 17s football side surprised many during the 2019 finals series, but their run came to an end in last weekend's preliminary final.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Crows won their way through to preliminary final against the Turvey Park Bulldogs, but were unable to get over the line and into the grand final, going down 17.10-112 to 7.7-49.
Leeton-Whitton's tenacity and strength had them make their way through to the preliminary final after having to fight for their life each week of the finals following a fifth-placed finish on the ladder during the home and away season.
Under 17s coach Travis Doyle said the side was disappointed not to make the premiership game, but should be proud of their season nonetheless.
"Turvey Park proved too strong for the Crows running out 60-point winners after the Crows led by a narrow margin at half-time," he said.
"The Crows looked tired in the second half as a nine-match winning streak came to an end.
"Leeton-Whitton never looked finals bound sitting second last on the ladder after the completion of the first round.
"However, a stirring second half of the season winning streak had the competition stand up and take notice thanks to a strong team performance lead by Lou Brown medalist Josh Lanham and key back Jack Rourke.
MORE SPORT
"The boys then had convincing victories in the elimination and first semi finals dispatching of Griffith and Collingullie before the dream run came to an abrupt end."
Doyle said those among the best in the preliminary final included Josh Thomas, Coopa Steele, Josh Lanham, Bailey Wood (five goals), Jye Doyle and Nathan Ryan.
"A number of players in the squad showed significant development over the season, with many playing senior football in the firsts and seconds, while others with limited years of experience in the game started to find their feet while playing stronger opposition," Doyle said.
Under 17s Crows finals campaign
- Elimination final: Leeton-Whitton 16.19-115 d Griffith Swans 3.5-23
- Semi-final one: Leeton-Whitton 13.14-92 d Collingullie-Glenfield Park 6.8-44
- Preliminary final: Turvey Park 17.10-112 d Leeton-Whitton 7.7-49
****
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you're up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.