The Toronto Dingos were handed their first loss in season 2024, going down to the Toronto Rebels in a tight one, 9.7 (61) - 10.8 (68).
The Tim Shaw-Josh McMillan Memorial Match did not disappoint the fans of both clubs who came out to honour two club legends, with both teams giving it their all in a very tightly contested game.
The Dingos got off to a hot start, with key forward Rob McNaughton reaping the reward of some solid work by the midfield and slotting two majors early, whilst midfielders Ludo Barrat and James Talbot also snuck forward for a goal apiece. But, as the quarter continued the Rebels began to find their feet and execution, pegging back the Dingos lead to be just a single goal at the first break.
Continuing on from their strong finish to the quarter, the Rebels came out from the break and began to take control of the ball around the contest, whilst every Dingos attack seemingly came back with interest as the Rebels were quick to turn defense into offense. This resulted in the ball spending a bit of time between the arcs and a low scoring quarter where the Dingos were held goalless whilst the Rebels put on two majors to head to the main break with a slim lead.
Fired up up after losing just their second quarter of the season, the Dingos came out of the main break playing the familiar footy that we had seen all season thus far. A couple of goals to midfielder Michael Ladd and one to vice-captain Matteo Lugarini helped the Dingos recapture the lead midway through the third. But, as we know the Rebels are not a team to lie down when the game gets tough, standing up and kicking two goals late to maintain a 3-point lead heading into the final term.
The final quarter saw the two teams exchanging goals as the Toronto summer heat slowed the game down as fatigue set in. After a late goal from ruckman James Sheehan (a.k.a Big Jim) the game was set up for an exciting finish, with just 1 point separating the teams with less than 5 minutes remaining.
Despite multiple forward thrusts from the Dingos midfield, the Rebels defense were able to lock down and hold on for a 7-point victory.
Post game a ceremony was held to honour late clubman Tim Shaw of the Dingos, and Josh McMillan of the Rebels. As the teams came together to talk about the impact these two great men had on their respective clubs and pay their respects, two players (one from each team) were awarded the the Tim Shaw-Josh McMillan Best on Ground Award which was presented by Tim's son, Zach Shaw.
Congratulations to Dingo Keegan Hogarth & Rebel Andrew Brown who were voted best afield in a tight, hard fought game.
Goals: M. Ladd (2), R. McNaughton (2), L. Barrat, M. Lugarini, J. Sheehan, B. Sinclair, J. Talbot
Best: K. Hogarth, M. Ladd, R. McNaughton, L. Barrat, M. Lugarini
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