Easts Celts defied all odds on Sunday to take out the Reserve grade title that has been eluding the club for so many years. Preparation for the big game was far from ideal, with injury, illness and other bad luck all playing a part. Easts were forced to take the field two men short against a Shamrocks side who admittedly had problems of their own.

In heroic fashion, the men from Easts took the game by the scruff of the neck. Paul Reball managed to put the ball into the net within seconds of the game starting. With a gameplan based on simple mistake free footy Easts were sound in defence, stunningly skilful in attack and hungrier than their opponents.

There was not a single Celts player who didn't follow the coaches instructions to the letter. So good was Easts play that it wasn't really noticeable that the Shamrocks had a two man overlap. In a game that was eventually won by a mere four points, the Celts stood tall and won the first leg of what turned into a incredible "Double Championship" day for the blue and golds.

Stars performers for Easts were Marc Griffiths in goals, Adrian Dowell in defence, the tireless Jamie "Buddha" Byrne and Brad Small, Point scoring machines Dairmuid Boland, Brett Gill and Paul Reball. So dominant was "Reebs", I think it's safe to say we couldn't have won without him. Well done also to solid club men like Adam Mellick, Shane Verity, Owen Ryan and Kev Talbot. You've all achieved a special feat. Grand finals are hard to come by and not one Easts player has to "die wondering". Injured players Chris Guice and Matty Huggett took the field despite medical advice that said they shouldn't. It was a brave effort and jeez, the pair of you have got some balls!

In a difficult season that ended like a fairy tale, I'd like to personally thank all players and officials from the club who made it possible. It wasn't that long ago that Easts wasn't the best club in the competition. Now things have turned around, and that doesn't happen by accident. Behind-the-scenes, people like Chris, Veronica and Nicole are making things happen. These peoples efforts ensure the club will be strong in years to come.

Finally, I'd like to mention the Seniors Captain, Ronan Harper. Ronan is heading home to Ireland and Sundays game was his last in Easts colours. Ronan, you've served the club well over the last few years and you'll be a massive loss. I'm wrapped to have been a part of your champion team and even more wrapped to have known you. Keep an eye on the club website because mate, the silverware will be coming our way regularly, and that's because of the standards you've set in your time at the Celts!

Dov Hirst (reserve grade coach).

Easts Celts reserve grade side were defeated by Shamrocks at Willawong yesterday in severely windy conditions. Playing a nine-a-side scratch game because of poor numbers, both sides struggled with the conditions and found accurate kicking and passing almost impossible. Easts final score of 1-3 (6) to Shamrocks 2-6 (12) was a fair indication of a game where Easts once again failed to get enough possession to be competitive.

The backs for Easts were outstanding, with Goalkeeper Joel Houghton saving several certain three-pointers and Marc Griffiths attacking the ball strongly to clear the "danger zone" constantly. Midfield player Brad Small was also solid whilst Shane Verity displayed good skills in the forward line. The only thing holding Shane back at the moment is his confidence and signs are good that Shane will be a much better player in 2005 with a season under his belt. Brett Gill and Jamie "Buddha" Byrne displayed their usual spectacular skills.

Despite the poor results of late, Easts are certain to be more competitive when the finals start. With a genuine reserve grade outfit, I am confident Easts have the depth, talent and determination to win the Reserve grade title in 2004.

Dov Hirst.

Easts reserves defeated Shamrocks on forfeit yesterday, and played a "scratch match" against a combined Shamrocks/Souths/Qld Minors side. Despite a determined effort, Easts were unable to win the game. Easts opposition played much better football, controlling the ball and scoring frequently.

Easts reserves are still doing the simple things poorly. An unwillingness to pick up the ball and poor disposal when in possession is costing the team dearly. Opposition sides are taking advantage of Easts "sloppy" play and racking up half time scores that are too big for the Celts to claw back.

Yesterdays game was played in difficult circumstances and conditions. Several players had already participated in the seniors match and were heavily fatigued on such a warm day. Please be reminded that our training venue has changed and that we will be training at Willawong this Wednesday at 6.30pm.

As coach of the reserves, I would like to appeal to all Easts reserve graders not to lose heart. This season has been a difficult one, with teams pulling out of the competition, and opposition sides playing many more experienced and skilful "senior" players against us. We are still in a position where one single victory will see us crowned premiers. Let's give ourselves the best possible chance of doing it!

Dov Hirst.

Easts reserve grade side was dealt yet another defeat by Shamrocks at Willawong on Sunday. In a game where all Easts players tried their hardest, the Shamrocks dominated possession and scored frequently enough throughout the game to be assured of victory. Easts are playing an improved brand of football compared to earlier in the season but are not getting enough possession in the forwards - where the scoring is done.

The scoreline of Shamrocks 2-11(17) to Easts 0-5(5) was indicative of the Celts inability to score enough points to be competitive. Good performances from Marc Griffiths in goals and Paul Reball (in a variety of positions) ensured the scoreline was not a complete blow-out. Marc made one particularly brave save very early in the game that inspired the Celts to tighten the defence for the entire match.

Easts would like to congratulate Shamrocks on their conduct throughout a season that could be described as monotonous at best. Easts are confident of an improved and more competitive showing in the finals.

Dov Hirst.

Easts Celts Reserves played what was possibly their best game this season yesterday against Shamrocks. Despite only managing a draw, Easts were committed and enthusiastic against a Shamrocks side that has been handing them regular hidings this season. Whilst the Celts put the first score of the day in the net, Shamrocks always seemed to have a reply and scores see-sawed for the entire game. With the score in Easts favour eight points to seven with only minutes left, victory seemed certain but the clever Shamrocks forwards managed to put on over the bar right on full time to snatch their third draw for the season.

Stand out performer for Easts was Brett Gill who manages a great game every week, despite the scoreline. Jamie "Buddha" Byrne was also terrific. We all wonder if this bloke will ever slow down with age. It seems unlikely. The return of Stuart Rodriguez was also a timely one, with Stuey kicking the opening goal of the game. Matt Huggett continues to get better weekly and must be close to the most improved player in the club.

Despite the great game from Easts, numbers are still poor and players are still turning up too late for the captain and coach to line out the team properly. If we had fifteen or sixteen players lined out and warmed up a half an hour prior to kick off, we'd be a very hard team to beat. Please be reminded that this weekends game is at the unusual time of 5.30 pm SATURDAY. This is to work in with Shamrocks other grades, who play Mitchels that evening. Please let Dov know as early as possible if you are unable to make this game.

Dov Hirst.

Easts Celts were delivered a crushing 18 point defeat at the hands of a red hot, "Billy Rocket-inspired" Shamrocks yesterday. The Shamrocks maintained their recent stranglehold over the struggling Celts by registering the first three scores of the game before Easts had even had a clean possession.

While Easts experimented with players in unfamiliar positions, Shamrocks followed their gameplan to the letter and never looked like being threatened. Final scores of 2-15 (21) to Easts 0-3(3) were a true indication of Shamrocks superiority.

Despite the heavy defeat, Easts tried their hardest and, unlike previous games this year were still putting in until the final hooter. Performances by midfielders Brett Gill and Tim Fairhurst were terrific. It's not easy to keep going when a game is so one-sided but this pair refused to quit. Regular backline players Marc Griffiths and Adrian Dowell were in unfamiliar territory playing in the half forward line and both played solid games. Marc Griffiths even managed a lovely score late in the match. Not bad kicking for a bloke who's been the reserve grade goalie for the last five seasons. Well done Marc, it won't be the last time you get a run up forward! Brad Small was also solid and his experience and cool head have a steadying effect on the team when things are looking grim.

Looking forward to seeing as many reserve grade players at training as possible, as the "business end" of the season draws nearer. Things will improve soon.

Dov Hirst.

Easts Celts reserve grade side suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of a much improved Shamrocks yesterday. Although fired-up and confident for the clash, the Celts were rarely able to control the ball for more than one or two kicks or passes at a time and were out-enthused at nearly every contest for the ball. In a game where Shamrocks dominated possession, Easts forwards were effectively shut-out of the match, and the backs were run ragged by a very fit and keen Shamrocks forward line. The Celts are likely to experiment with some positional changes over the next week or two in an attempt to find some form.

The final score of 6-10(28) to Easts 0-3(3) probably doesn't accurately tell the story of the Shamrocks dominance over the Celts. The game was probably the Celts most lack-lustre for the season.

On a happier note, there were some noteworthy performances from the Easts side. Second-gamer, Tim Fairhurst was tireless and enthusiastic in the midfield and ran all day in both attack and defence. Jeff Barter made a rare appearance in the goal keeping position and showed terrific reflexes and courage to save several certain three-pointers that were blasted at him from close range. Jamie "Buddha" Byrne was his usual, reliable self and attacked the ball hard all game.

Several reserve graders were good enough to stick around and help out in the Seniors clash with a combined Qld U18's/Harps side. Matty Huggett performed strongly in the half backline and is improving weekly. Matt is an example of the value of training. Adrian Dowell displayed his usual solid backline play. Adam Mellick also took the field in Seniors and bagged the opening score. Shane Verity and Tim Fairhurst turned out for the Harps side, who were struggling for numbers. Both played well, with Shane registering his first ever Gaelic footy points with two superb single-pointers. It's dependable blokes like these that make the Celts the terrific club we are. Well done!

Dov Hirst.

An under strength and under-manned Easts Celts reserve grade side staged a mini-comeback yesterday to draw 8-all with a determined yet undisciplined Shamrocks team. In a game that should've been "in the bag" for Easts, the Shamrocks took advantage of Easts playing a man short and got off to a better start to lead by two points at half time. Luckily for Easts a quick three pointer within minutes of resuming play for the second half saw them back in the game. Shamrocks had a penalty shot late in the second half that would've won them the game, but they pushed it high for a single point, which locked up scores. The draw was the second one between these two teams this season.

Easts Celts reserves have plenty of talent and ability this season but are letting themselves down by turning up to games minutes before kick off or not turning up at all. To be successful this season, we need as many players as possible training and all players at the ground 45 minutes before the start of play. With a genuinely committed team, Easts must surely have what it takes to win the competition we went within a whisker of getting last year. We all play Gaelic footy for fun, but if there's a premiership on offer, why not do our very best to take it out?

Players unable to attend training or games are required to phone either the manager or coach as early as possible. (Kamarlie Price 04222 4043, Dov Hirst 0408 458 939). Our club is in very good shape at the moment, and many people are putting in a lot of time and effort behind the scenes. The reserve grade side has always been the backbone of Easts and the level of commitment needs to improve immediately for this to continue.

Dov Hirst.

Despite a spirited and courageous performance, Celts Reserve grade side has failed to retain the Brisbane Shield for 2004. Against a Souths team that would've been competitive against most Senior sides, the Easts Celts were out-played but not out-classed and were on the wrong end of a 33 points to seven drubbing.

Despite being down by seven at half time, the Celts believed a strong comeback was possible and took the field for the second half confident of victory. Within five minutes of play the Magpies put the game beyond Easts reach with three quickfire goals in the back of the net. Easts would like to offer their congratulations to Souths, who always manage to field strong sides for important games. Well done. There are Magpies reserve graders who surely must be pushing for Senior grade positions within the Souths club. :)

For Easts, Dermott Boland worked tirelessly even when the game was lost. Dermott will surely be seen in a seniors jersey in the very near future. John Kelly was also a stand-out and showed why he is so important to the club. This bloke is fit, skillful and "tough-as-teak". Owen Ryan displayed enormous courage in defence when thrown into the backline late in the match. Every Celts player can hold their head high despite the comprehensive loss. Results will be going our way by the business end of the season, provided the reserve grade side remains committed to training and we can keep the bulk of our genuine reserve grade side on the paddock.

With byes in all three grades this weekend, East Celts can use the weekend off to rid themselves of the Toowoomba Cup/Brisbane Shield hangovers and come back the following weekend fit, hungry and ready to play footy.

Dov. Hirst.

Easts Celts reserve grade side crashed to their second loss in as many weeks to a determined Shamrocks side yesterday. In a game where several players were playing in unfamiliar positions, the Celts were simply out-enthused by a Shamrocks team that is on the improve. Celts had ample possession and field position for much of the game yet failed to convert it into points, whilst Shamrocks made the most of their opportunities to register a 1-9 (12) to 0-4 (4) victory. The scoreline could've been worse for the Celts had the match referee not penalised the Shamrocks for a "square-ball" despite the goal being given the all clear from the goal umpires.

On the bright side, Celts showed patience and confidence with the ball and look to have shaken off their reputation as a team that blazes at goal from impossible positions. Performances worthy of mention were that of Jamie "Buddha" Byrne, Brett Gill and Owen Ryan who were all "hard at the ball" all day.

A big "Thumbs-up" to reserve graders Matt Huggett, Adam Mellick and Shane Verity who all participated in the Celts vs Harps Seniors match. These blokes attitude to training and playing are an example to all Easts players. Well done.

Brisbane Shield Final is this Friday night. Expect the Celts to give this game a mighty big shake.

Dov.

Easts Celts Reserve grade side narrowly lost the first game of the Toowoomba Cup weekend to a star-studded Souths Magpies on Saturday. In a game that had signs early that Easts were about to be handed a huge flogging, The Celts managed to turn things around and even lead the match at certain stages of the second half. The turn around was mainly due to clever positional changes made by stand-in coach Chris Guice and a great change of attitude from the Celts players. A lot of teams would've crumbled after half time in a game that appeared lost, but to their credit the Celts kept chipping away at the scoreboard until the end.

Performances from many of the rookie players were outstanding but special mention must go to Adam Mellick, who played himself to a stand-still and contributed to the score with two terrific goals and a point. There would be a few seniors players looking nervously over their shoulders whilst Adam is in this type of form. Shannon Van Balen also had a run with the reserves and was faultless in both his positional play and determination. Many at the club believe Shannon is not capable of playing poorly as he is so consistent week in- week out. Shannon even granted himself the luxury of having a little wander up field to score his first ever Gaelic football point.

Souths got the win by two points and ended up retaining the Toowoomba cup and Easts would like to offer their congratulations. We always know we're up for a hard, physical match in Toowoomba and last Saturday was no different. Only 364 sleeps 'til Toowoomba Cup 2005!!!!

Dov.

After being awarded the points against Souths on forfeit yesterday, the East Celts reserve grade side played an exciting and free-flowing scratch match against a combination Souths/Celts side. Rather than go home early, it was agreed that Celts would "lend out" several players to the severely depleted Magpies so that everyone could at least have a run around the paddock. Despite the Celts ending up on the wrong end of the score by two points, the development of many of the new Easts players was evident.

For Easts, the stand-out players were the evergreen Adrian Dowell, Marc Griffiths and Mick Jones. Rookie players Shane Verity and Jason Cunningham also showed they are improving weekly. Souths star performers were last minute recruits Greg Bryant and John Kelly, who ran, kicked and passed with ease in a game that was ultimately a training session.

Signs are there that Easts can have a very good Reserve grade side this season, but one area that needs to improve immediately is that of turning up to Willawong early enough for a team to be lined out properly and the side to warm up. Many of last years reserve grade players will remember how awful it was to blow the Grand Final and it surely must be the aim of the club to go one step further this year and win it. In order to do that, we need as many players at training as possible and everyone out at the ground a good forty-five minutes before the start of play.

Dov.

Reserves open League campaign with a draw

East Celts reserve grade side played out a thrilling 18-all with Shamrocks yesterday at Willawong. In extremely hot and dry conditions Shamrocks jumped out of the blocks to take an early lead. After fifteen minutes of play, Celts found rhythm to take the lead for the first time in the match. In what turned out to be a see-sawing game, both teams exchanged scores with a minimum of wide shots and some terrific shooting at the net. The last few minutes of the game proved most exciting, with both sides registering three-pointers and looking to take the result. Eventually the clock ran down with the scores locked at Eighteen apiece and the result was a fitting one.

Top performers for the Celts were Adrian Dowell, who's defence was faultless, and Mick Jones who contributed an invaluable four goals/one from full forward. Other Celts whose performances were noteworthy were Adam Mellick and Jason Cunningham. These rookie players are still finding their feet in gaelic footy and are improving weekly. First game player, Lucas Ridgeway gave an extremely skilled performance that suggested he'll be a very valuable asset to the club in the future.

For the opposition, Billy Rocket bagged a ripper three pointer from a penalty that very nearly finished off the Celts chances of winning the game, whilst Harrold Peacock was in unfamiliar territory having a mini running-battle with the referee for the majority of the first half.

Celts Reserve grade play Souths at 12.15 this Sunday and are urged to be at the ground 45 minutes before the start of play to allow for naming of a team and warm up.

Dov Hirst.