GNFL: Northampton Rams “sound structure” fields them round five win against Bridages Hawks Football Club

A solid and workmanlike game was the result of the match-up of the round, with the elements heavily affecting the performance of Northampton and Brigades.

The Rams kicked four goals and three points in the first quarter and left the Hawks scoreless as a strong wind worked in Northampton’s favour.

Although switching ends helped Brigades tighten the score, Northampton forged ahead in the second half, walking away with the win 11.9 (74) to 8.3 (51).

Northampton senior coach Beau Walker said a sound structure against the strong Brigades outfit got them over the line.

“In the second half we made some adjustments and then the rain came, which worked in our favour,” he said.

“To bounce back after a bad loss (in round three) when we were challenged was really pleasing.

“Brigades have got some good players, no doubt about that.

“We just had to back in our system and from two weeks ago when we didn’t go as well, we had a few areas we wanted to focus on and I think we were better.”

Kingsley Smith was named best on ground while Ethan Brown in defence, Beau Walker, Flynn Dillon in the ruck and Keiran Harris with a good down tackle in the third quarter also gave stellar performances.

Olympian and NBL champion Damian Martin in line-up for Mid West sport forum in Geraldton

Harry Taylor: Why it’s so important to celebrate 60 years of our Great Northern Football League

Nathaniel Mourambine, Callum Teakle, Harrison Pluschke and Kieran Harris each scored two goals for the Rams with Dylan Corbett, Kingsley Smith and Harry Taylor each kicking one.

“It’s almost like having another coach on the ground with Harry Taylor,” Walker said.

“The way he sets up for us out there is invaluable.”

Brigades also saw good work from their best on ground Kim Schofield and Jack Deschamp, Jesse Casselton, Ben OBrien and Dale Williamson, with goal kickers Dale Williamson for five, Ben O’Brien with two and Jayden Schofield scoring one.

Next week the Rams will take on last-placed Mullewa, who Walker said were a “pretty proud club” which they would continue to work hard to prepare for.

Brigades are set to have an exciting match against Towns, which is set to firm up the season’s top four favourites.