By Beth Newman
1. Underdogs show fight
The favourites certainly didn’t have things their own way in Round 2. Mt Gravatt took its first win on the coast, with a performance defying the squad’s tender years. It took more than a half of football for Palm Beach to see off UQ, while Broadbeach impressed at Jack Esplen Oval, in an effort not reflected in the final margin. Wilston Grange stayed with Labrador for most of their game too, showing they will be a contender. This competition is only just getting started and there are plenty more exciting performances where those came from.
2. Scheer brilliance
He’s the youngest player ever to don the Palm Beach jumper in the senior team, but 15 year-old Brad Scheer looks like a player well beyond his years, after another super match on the weekend. Scheer is a big bodied teenager, with an obvious feel for the goals – he kicked five against UQ.
3. Patty Power
Last year, he was a basketballer trying his hand at footy, playing mainly in UQ’s fourths, but on Saturday at Salk Oval, Patrick O’Shaughnessy looked every bit a natural footballer. O’Shaughnessy stepped up into the Red Lions’ ruck role and dominated the taps, uncovering a major gem for the Red Lions. The ruck is an area where the Red Lions lack depth, and O’Shaughnessy’s performance will ease some concerns there. The best part is, he has an incredible upside in only his second season in the game.
4. Every game, they’re shuffling
With NEAFL players coming in and out of sides each week, clubs are learning to deal with constantly changing faces. The challenge for each team is building a strong cohesion through the whole group, and whoever can do this best will end up on top.
5. Demons must embrace the bye
It’s been a tough start for Surfers Paradise, who have performed well below expectations to start the season, even given the numerous absences on their list. A week off is exactly what the side needs, with players like Jesse Griffin and Simon Fenton on track to return for round three. They will be a much better side after the break, and they’ll come out hungry to prove themselves.
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