And like that we are at the half way mark of the season. 10 games gone and another 10 to look forward to.  In this blog post we’d like to give a quick rundown on where the teams are and what we have to look forward to in round 2.

The u14s have been progressing OK. They only have 1 win to their name, but they have taken points from 4 games, so if they can turn those draws into wins, they could be sitting on double the amount of league points. As a playing group the girls have been developing their group norms, trying to understand more about what is required to compete at this level; Concentration in training, concentration in games, supporting each other,  fighting for each other, staying positive… all things that are extra to the actual skills of playing the game. It’s an exciting time for the girls as we progress into the 2nd round with a renewed energy.

Its been and up and down start to the season for the u15s. Unlike the 14s, the u15s have made the most of the tight games and won 4 of the 5 games they have taken points from. The key turning point for the u15s was a change in shape part way through the season that allowed them get a much better grip on games. The playing group work well together, and there is much better chemistry on the field in recent games. The girls will be looking to build on the last few games of the 1st round to push on and fight for a finals spot.

The u17s have been dealt a number of huge blows so far this season, losing 2 key players in their captain and number 10 to long term injuries, and seeing a number of other players spend lengthy periods on the side-lines. However, the girls have tried their best to play with the cards they are dealt and have shown great resilience in getting on with the job. We are really excited about where this group can go, especially given the FNSW restructure including an u18s next season. The u17s will be looking to surprise the top teams this round, with the new additions to the squad, we hope we can help develop the stability they have been craving.

This young reserve squad has exceeded our expectations in regards to points and are currently siting in 2nd spot on the ladder. They have been a real threat in every game they play, but the ‘Ressies’ need to learn quick that mistakes at this level will get punished. There is plenty to be excited about for the 2nd round of games, as we battle for something that has not been achieved by a Ravens Reserves team in the current NPL era (since 2016), and that’s playing finals football.

Like our reserves, this 1st Grade group is filled with very exciting young players, who are guided by a group of senior players. Although there is a saying in football that a league table doesn’t lie, it doesn’t always tell the truth either, as our points tally doesn’t match up to the football we have been playing, but its clear this group are not far away from becoming a real challenger for finals and beyond. Maybe not this year, but certainly as we look towards 2022, we are expecting BIG things from this group.