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Good afternoon Geckos and friends,

Last Saturday saw the Bali Geckos retain the Bali/Java Cup with a dominant display against long term rival, the Jakarta Bintangs. This was the first hitout in a match for premiership points for the year for any of the boys under 35 that could not play in the Masters in June and their desire and attack on the footy showed. Kicking with the aid of a couple of goal breeze, the Geckos had all the scoring in the first quarter with a 7 goal term. A couple of late goals to the Bintangs kept them in the hunt.
The Bintangs hit back in the second to outscore the Geckos by a couple of goals and stay within striking distance at the main break.
The Geckos lifted their game after half time and slammed on the goals with swift movement and precise ball use. Josh Young at full forward was unbeatable and kicked a lazy 14 majors for the day with a number of goal assists as well. Standouts in the midfield included debutants, Chad Fletcher, Adam Bilwani and Mick Austin. Older stalwarts of the Geckos, Sammy Gosling, Rod Joseph, Buffet Dave and Tyler Mitchell were as solid as always and provided run out of defense and through the middle when needed. Ryan Murphy, Jeff Cooper, Tim Tracy, Matt Veale and 15 year old Liam Capone were used all over the ground and were outstanding given the constant different roles assigned to them. Captain Rick Olarenshaw pinged his hamstring early in the first quarter but has vowed to be back stronger and better for the next game.
A special mention must go to our 4 Indonesian players, regulars Aan and Dachie were typically fast and furious and provided numerous headaches for opponents. First gamers Marcus and Jayden adapted extremely well and showed plenty of promise.
Final Scores were Geckos 29. 13 Total 187 to Jakarta 14. 8 Total 92.
A big thank you to all those that assisted in officiating, with Dave Schonell and Stu Campbell doing the field umpiring and Arthur, Keety, Scotty and JL goal umpiring or keeping score.
Of course, massive thanks goes to the Canggu Club for use of their country club facilities which ensured A-grade comfort for all spectators and competitors.