The whole Autisticana crew went on excursion to Fire Island. Originally we planned on going to Ocean Beach but missed the ferry so we went to Kismet. Some of us almost missed the boat because we got on the wrong ferry terminal boat but the correct time. The crew on the ferry was nice enough to save us time but made in time to catch the ferry to Fire Island. We landed at Kismet, Fire Island. The whole group took a wagon and went for a walk to Kismet Beach. When we got to the beach, some of us went to the water and others relaxed to enjoyed the view. Afterwards, we went for a walk around Kismet and walked through the town and the most interesting houses on the island. We saw signs and souvenirs as items for decoration. I saw some wagons and bicycles in the front yard since cars werenโt allow to go through Fire Island. Afterwards we went for dinner at a deli and we had ice cream, chicken tenders with fries, and a large pretzel. Finally we went saw the most interesting sunset and took the Ferry back to Bay Shore.
Scott
On my end I started off with riding on a wagon halfway before having all of the bags on the wagon. I went to the beach and had a blast by getting hit by the giant waves while I tried to avoid getting hit by the riptides. At one point I almost touched a jellyfish with a minor sting, during which I was hypnotized because it was a close call. While I went for a walk with the group, I found out that every wagon and bikes with baskets had a license plate so they know the name of the vehicle. It would be cool if they can customize the plate or get an old license plate for an souvenir so they can put on a vehicle. Thereโs also a wagon depot by the dock which every wagon should have a license plate to know the color and customize their plates from New York, Florida or whatever customized plate for an ocean-theme related name.
Jackson
I loved walking around the beach and standing by the waves while feeling the sand being pulled in by the water. We also got to sit on our towels and talk about how interesting Kismet Beach was. At first I was nervous by the ferry because I kept thinking my stuff was going to fall off the boat but I got through it both to the island and back. I also enjoyed seeing an interesting fence rumored to belong to a “psycho killer” and eating at the deli with each other. I enjoyed a delicious dinner of fries and sparkling lemonade mixed with blackberry seltzer and seeing a beautiful sunset on the way back to Bay Shore.
Both Matildas vs Lions had played their most competitive performance.This has been the biggest sporting event so far in Australia History while Australia plays against England. The Matildas were determined to get their first World Cup Finalists as the host since the USA did back in 1999. Tony Gustavsson was hoping if Australia could get a victory against England which they’re good as the Matildas. While Sabrina Weigman was focused that the Lionesses could possibly do a rematch which that was her only lost as manager against Australia 2-0 in a friendly match in April of 2023. The match was hosted in Stadium Australia in Olympic Park of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The supporters of 75,784 came to watch a great excited match for Australia vs England.
The match started off with Australia taking control while England quickly took defense. At the 7th minute, Sam Kerr almost got herself a goal for Australia which was blocked by Mary Herps. At the 9th minute, Stanway was close to get get a goal which Mackenzie Arnold managed to save it.17th minute, Russo passed it to Hemp which it hit the net on. At the 30th minute, Australia took the corner kick which Hayley Raso almost give the Matildas a goal. At the 36th minute, Rachel Daly passed it to Hemp to Russo and small pass to Ella Toone which she give England on the opening score to lead the Matildas 1-0. the 38th minute, Elie Carpenter pass it to Gorry but it was a great save from Herps. Both teams played well which it ended up England 1-0
During the 2nd Half, The Matildaโs has to find a way in order to go to the World Cup. 47th minute Sam Kerr almost got her goal. At the 57th minute, Lauren Hemp had everything she can which she wasn’t called for a foul but kept going and Mackenzie Arnold was able to save it. At the 63rd minute Sam Kerr took the ball and ran all the way which give Australia a 30 yards kick goal to level up 1-1. The fans at Stadium Australia was electrified as Sam Kerr scored her goal in her host nation. IAt the 67th minute, Kyra Cooney-Cross took the long range kick which Sam Kerr did the header but Herps was able to save it for England. It didnโt last when England took the sacrifice at the 71st minute when Millie Bright did a long pass to Lauren Hemp and passed through the Australian defense and give England the lead again. Australia thought that they could pull through but it didmd last with England with the might roar of getting into their way. In the last 20 minutes Australia had refused to give up hope as Sam Kerr did a head but aimed at the wrong direction which it would’ve been the moment for Australia to catch up England. So the Matildas kept trying but Mary Herps wouldn’t let Australia get a chance to catch up to them. When Australia had the corner kick, Sam Kerr just had her moment but pushed the pressure and booted up instead of direct goal. By the 86th minute, Lauren Hemp give out a massive pass to Alessia Russo a goal for England 3-1, which might do for England to play against Spain in the World Cup Final. The England squad cheered and celebrated like a victory which Australia had everything they could but didn’t get the job done. In the final minutes, Australia had tried possession but it was too late to level it up 3-3 which sadly Australia has been eliminated in the Semifinals against England 3-1.
The Matildas should be proud of themselves that they change the way to bring young girls and fans around the country to get into soccer. There was a lot of emotions from Australia which they thought they could be the host nation to reach to the finals. The Lionesses on the other hand had one of the best performances in the World Cup campaign which the team was able to play in their true spirit of soccer. The Aussie Fans has shown spirit to this sport. It will live on to continue the future of the Matildaโs which hopefully they can bring a silverware to their history. The whole squad has to now focus on getting Bronze against Sweden in Brisbane which they can bonce back and turn around. The love of every soccer fan around the world who now believe in the Matildas are true spirits and hopefully one day they can show the world to see what they can accomplish in other other conceptions like the Summer Olympics and other International Tournaments.
The Matildas had played really well throughout their world cup until they have to play against France which their known as the Les Bleues. While both Australia and France are motivated to advance to the Semifinals, the two teams have shown exceptional power and overall achievement. Australia’s Tony Gustavsson and France’s Hervรฉ Renard both enjoyed a successful World Cup campaign. With an outstanding view of their 49,961 fans, the match was held at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland.
The match started off with both teams doing well balance while Sam Kerr gets to start off in the bench just in case of any form of play when needed. At the 12th minute, france took the corner kick which Eugenie Le Sommer had a chance to pass it to Maelle Lakrar bit kicked off target. Australia had some moments but couldn’t get the finishing touches. During the 24th minute Maria Carvajal had signals an Australia throw-in in France’s half. Which quickly became Katrina-Lee Gorry of Australia gets in a strike, but is off target. At the 32nd minute, France took the corner kick and Maelle Lakrar tried to give the Les Blues on the scoreboard which Mackenzie Arnold save it from going in. A the 41st minute, Hayley Raso was about to get the goal for Australia which the french defense almost cost the chance with lack of communication. While Katrina Lee Gorry passed it to Mary Fowler she was about to score for Australia but a great defense from Elisa De Almeida had a massive block which France was lucky to not let Australia get a chance to take the lead which it ended up halftime 0-0. Both teams had caused mistakes and failed possession of the ball.
When the 2nd half began, France already give a fowl to Fowler which Australia will get the free kick but it was blocked. France had most possession but almost had a chance. At the 55th minute the whole crowd was excited for Sam kerr for her to take over the 2nd half of the match. The moment after she got on, Kerr almost got herself a goal and Hayley Raso nearly got herself the goal for the Matildas. At the 58th minute Australia took charge of the corner kicks which couldn’t finish the job at the end which Pauline Peyraud-Magnin the French Goalkeeper was being this massive to refuse the Matildas the chance of a winning opportunity. During in these moments, France had suddenly came more dangerous with the ball and the tactics. The match at Suncorp Stadium has been interrupted briefly for a check on Eugenie Le Sommer, who is down injured which she got hit in the nose. At the 82nd minute, Australia was able to drive forward but Caitlin Foord is called for offside. During the 89th minute, Australia’s Ellie Carpenter breaks free, but the strike goes wide of the post. At the 90th minute, France’s Selma Bacha misses with an attempt on goal. The match was so competitive and still scoreless which means it ends the regulation match and go to extra time.
When extra time began, both teams had played their toughest performance which only one side can win it to the semifinals. At the 95th minute, France surge into the attack at Suncorp Stadium but Elisa De Almeidaโs header is off-target. At the 100th Minute, France took the corner kick and Wendie Renard had the goal for France but the referee wanted to turn the play over for offside she was also caught for a push to Australia. During the 105th minute, Caitlin Foord had full advantage of the ball and hand it to Cortnne Vine but almost got themselves a goal. Afterwards, it was another round of extra time and France continue to let the Matildas to struggle the possession which France has contacted to play dangerous. At the 106th minute Viviane Asseyi had the ball in the penalty box and gives it to Vicki Becho which Mackenzie Arnold made a powerful save. By the 110th minute, Lauren Fazer of France passed the ball to Grace Geyoro which Steph Catley of Australia defend it from getting the goal. During the final minutes of exratime, France made 2 subs included the goalkeeper. The Goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin was being replaced by Solene Durand which Peyraud-Magnin did phenomenal with the defense of disallowing goals for Australia. On the other hand, Eve Perisset is replacing Elisa De Almeida for France. After the final moments from both Australia and France, the match ended up to penalty shots.
While Australia and France both haven’t find a strategy to score a goal, they ended went to Penalty kicks and a lot of fans has enjoyed the match at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The penalty kick also known as PK mode started off with Selma Bacha but made a weak kick for an easy save from Arnold Mackenzie. When Caitlin Foord of Australia took over, she scores by the left of the post. When Kadidiatou Diane of France took the penalty kick it was an easy shot by the left post. While Steph Caitley of Australia took her shot, it was save by Solene Durand to save France with hope. When Wendie Renard the most farce player of France took the shot which it was an easy goal which had no problem of the danger. By the time Sam Kerr the Capitan of Australia took over, she made a goal which roared the whole stadium to see her score the goal in front of the audience of her home country. She had shown pride what soccer can do for her aussie fans, which made her feel good about the penalty kick. When Eugenie Le Sommer of France took the shot, it was a goal on the right side. As soon as Mary Fowler of Australia took the shot, it was a goal on the left and Australia has believe that could win the Quarterfinals. When Eve Perisset of France and just it the post and misses which Austrlia can bring hope for the victory if they made it. When Mackenzie Arnold of Australia played against Solene Durand she almost give Australia the big win which it the right post. It was 3-3 and made it round 6 which it got electrified in Brisbane and all og the fans got amped up with moment of sudden death. Then Grace Geyoro of France kicked the ball and succeeds from the penalty spot which Mackenzie Arnold almost had it but her fingertips was short to give the Matildas a win. When Katrina-Lee Gorry of Australia took her luck, she scores and did the rockabye baby holding dance while Solene Durand of France failed to save it with her fingertips and Australia went wild. By the Sakina Karchaoui of France scores from the penalty spot, it hit the post but able to get over the line when France an extra life of pendents. When Tameka Yallop of Australia took the kick, she quickly tip toe the play and succeeds from the penalty spot 5-5 into round 8. When Maelle Lakrar of France took the penalty kick it succeeds for France for an another lead. While Ellie Carpenter of Australia took the penalty kick she scores off the post but manage to get in. Afterwards, it was Kenza Dali of France took the shot, she missed but Mackenzie was happy to save but has to redo it because she moved too early. When Clare Hunt of Australia gets ready to take a penalty, she was able to kick it center but the goalie was able to save it. By the time Vicki Becho of France took the opportunity to lead The Blues and just it the post but couldn’t hang on. Lastly, it was round 10 which it was leveled 6-6 but Cortnee Vine took the penalty kick which it could be the moment for Australia. The Matildas has won the Penalty Shootout and they whole team has ran out and celebrated on the pitch for another successful match which they managed to win the Quarterfinals for the first time in World Cup History for both men and women for Australia. They will play against England in the Semifinals on Wednesday.
The most important lesson for the Matildas was to never surrender the power of taking charge of the World Cup and bring in joy for the sport that elevates the team. Everyone in the squad worked so hard to believe in themselves and it wasnโt easy for Australia to keep their grip of saving themselves as the host nation of the World Cup.
Hereโs the extra information about the Matildas on your social networks to see some of the greatest moments of this amazing match to remember
The Matildas were able to overcome Canada in the last round of the group stages after surviving group stage B. The Matildas must find a way to advance to the Quarterfinals. Sam Kerr, Australia’s Captain, on the other hand, is happy to be back in place but will play as a sub to avoid repeat injuries if she gets on the pitch or if any adjustments are necessary. The game is sold out, with an audience of 75,874 breaking another record. The game was held at Stadium Australia in Sydney, New South Wales.
The match began with Denmark gaining the most of the advantage in the opening 20 minutes, before Australia seized possession of the ball but had few near chances. Mary Fowler maintained the ball after defending Denmark’s attempt, which she held on to in the 29th minute. Additionally, Fowler dispatched a long ball to Caitlin Foord by sprinting it, giving the Matilda’s a 1-0 lead and igniting the joy of the enthusiastic Australian fans. Emily van Egmond had a wonderful run in the 34th minute to set up Caitlin Foord, but she was unable to score another goal.Australia received a few beautiful passes from each player in the 42nd minute but couldn’t close the scoring opportunity. However, the match was really enjoyable for the Aussie fans that watched it. During the remaining 25 minutes before halftime, the Australians had assumed control.
The Matilda’s continued to be focused on winning and moving on to the quarterfinals as the second half got underway. At the 54th minute, the Matildas had a number of passes from the players, but traffic came in the way, and the Danish goaltender Lene Christensen was able to stop it in a straight line. Denmark began to take possession of the ball in the 55th minute, but Mackenzie Arnold had other ideas to keep Denmark from leveling the match. The Aussies had continued to push themselves to keep the match on track by moving up.At the 58th minute, van Egmond gave it to Caitilin Foord, who almost scored Australia’s second goal, but the Danish defenders refused to give Australia the lead, despite the fact that they played effectively for the most part. Katrina Gorry made a beautiful pass to Mary Fowler and then gave it to Caitlin Foord in the 64th minute but had a right away to gain a near position of obtaining their second goal of the match. Emily van Egmond had stopped the ball but Lene Christensen the Danish Goalkeeper was able to stop before it went in again. In the 68th minute, Australia received a free kick from Steph Caitiley to Cooney-Cross and awarded another corner kick. Sam Kerr was getting set to warm up as the crowd applauded for her as she prepared to play in the World Cup for the first time.
Caitlin Foord had possession of the ball during the 70th minute and enacted it to Kyra Cooney-Cross, who subsequently passed it to Caitlin Foord, who additionally passed it to Mary Fowler, who quickly stopped the ball and handed it back to Mary Fowler in the penalty box square, who provided a brief pass to Emily van Egmond, and finally delivered it to Hayley Raso, who scored an additional goal for Australia. Hayley Raso did an airplane lift as she scored for Australia which they knew the team could take a victory into the Quarterfinals. Even their teammates were thrilled during the celebration of another score that increased the advantage to 2-0. Both teams collided in the 75th minute, although Australia was prepared to unleash subs in the interim. After the last play, Hayley Raso and Emily van Egmond were sent off, allowing Sam Kerr and Cortnee Vine to come on as substitutes. Sam Kerr, Australia’s Captain, returned after a warm greeting from all of the supporters chanting her name, and she couldn’t be happier that she was finally allowed to compete in her host nation event. In the 85th minute, Denmark eventually regained possession of the ball and threw it to the left. The captain, Sam Kerr, had her first opportunity to score in the 87th minute, but she missed the target by kicking the ball above the goal post. The fans were pleased with Sam Kerr’s first genuine chance with the ball. Denmark was playing more aggressively in the 89th minute, but they kicked the ball volleyed, allowing MacKenzie to make a simple save for Australia. At the 91st minute, the Matildas produced superb passes from each play, but Cooney-Cross almost gave Australia a third goal, which barely missed the top goal post. The crowd was highly encouraging and enthusiastic when Tameka Yallop replaced Foord in the 95th and final minute just because Foord was the star player who helped the Matilda’s take the 1-0 lead during the first half of the match. The anticipation was electrifying at Stadium Australia in Sydney, where a sold-out crowd of 75,874 awaited the last and final play. When the final whistle blows, the Matildas have won the Round of 16 and will face either France or Morocco in the Quarterfinals, as everyone in the stadium is excited for their home country, despite the fact that the Matildas had an outstanding sensation about their performance against Denmark. Some of the most supportive fans also brought in their Sam Kerr sign to show the love of the match and the team itself.
In the Quarterfinals, Australia will face either France or Morocco, demonstrating to their supporters that Australia can potentially be one of the finest teams in the world in their own nation for hosting this year’s World Cup.
Having Sam Kerr back at the Matildas was a terrific sensation for all of the supporters, especially since she had been absent for the majority of the competition. It was great to watch her take part in the Women’s World Cup after recovering from a calf injury. Hopefully, she’ll get some rest so she’ll be ready for all of her home supporters. The Matildas were brilliant throughout the competition, especially after Kerr was benched in the Group Stages, which they won despite her absence. The love of soccer has shown some great characteristics on each individual player on the Australian Team to see what they are made of and their own unique style of play, which Coach Tony Gustavsson was delighted with, although they never surrendered their style of play regardless of whether they were the host nation of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Even though on the bench, she remained a team player and assisted her colleagues in doing what they do best. Sam Kerr was an exceptional role model both on and off the field, indicating her genuine character and determination to never give up hope in spite of which player takes command of the squad, and it was all worth smiles.
The Lionesses played all three rounds of Group D and won all three matches against Haiti, Denmark, and China. Coach Sabrina Weigman of England currently hopes that the Lionesses will win in order to be eligible to the World Cup and demonstrate to the world that women can be as dominating as men’s teams. Coach Randy Waldrum, the head coach of the Nigerian Women’s National Soccer Team, is also the head coach of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers Women’s Soccer Team during the academic year. England must eventually defeat Nigeria. The match was held at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
The match began with England having great possession of the ball and dominating the first ten minutes. By the 10th minute, Nigeria was in possession of the ball, and the goalkeeper had volleyed it far over the goal line, resulting in a corner kick. Lauren James was able to boot the ball out of Nigeria’s control after they took the corner kick. Nigeria gained complete control in the 17th minute, and Mary Earps made two saves for England, nearly giving England an early shock that they were fortunate to avoid for a costly goal and punted away. James nearly gave Aleissa Russo a goal for England in the 22nd minute, but the young goaltender was able to make a fantastic stop. England took a corner kick in the 28th minute, but the Nigerian defense saved it, preventing England from scoring. Rachel Daly was ready to receive the ball when it was shoved, and the referee had a superb eye for an England penalty. Nigeria, on the other hand, had additional options for asking the referee to double-check the foul, which was reviewed and checked out of VAR to see whether there was a foul. It turned out that it was used before it was pushed, but it backfired on the foul, revealing that there was no penalty, which incensed England. Following that, Stanway sent the ball to Lucy Bronze, who played it to Lauren James, and the goalkeeper was able to save England’s corner kick. England got the corner in the 40th minute, but James kicked it above the goal line from the same location. The match finished 0-0 in the first half, which England was unhappy with due to a disallowed penalty kick, but the Lionesses had a great chance of keeping their confidence intact on the ball, which Nigeria had given them a fantastic performance.
During the second half, England was expecting to reclaim their advantage until Nigeria seized possession of the ball, forcing England to play more defensive. By the 56th minute, Greenwood had taken the free kick to Ruso but had swiftly headed out of bounds. The audience carried out the wave in the 62nd minute to keep themselves passionate as the game remained 0-0. England took the corner kick in the 66th minute, but Yewande Balogun, the goalie, saved it, and she leaped up like she was on the monkey bars. Nigeria took a corner kick in the 71st minute, but it flew out of bounds, but Mary Herps fell down and called for assistance to regain her grip. She was fortunate that nothing significant occurred while Coach Wiegman advised England to regain possession more frequently and make an effort to score in order to take full advantage. England took a corner kick in the 76th minute, and the goalie made a tremendous save, giving the Lionesses their best chance yet to score. By the 85th minute, Lauren James made a cheeky foul at Michelle Alozie but the referee initially gave her a yellow but the crew of VAR noticed the foul and the referee decided to stop the match to double check with VAR screen. It was revealed that the yellow card is no longer valid and has been replaced by a red card, implying that James knew she would be taken away for a nasty fowl. The two European Championship players who scored, Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly, were substituted on in the 88th minute to offer England hope. England fought everything they could to stay alive, and the match ended 0-0, sending them to extra time and maybe a penalty shootout if the outcome remained the same.
The Lionesses were keen to prevail so they could go to the Quarterfinals, where they would face the Falcons in a tight encounter. England is still seeking for a spectacular glory, but they must play wisely in order to advance to the Quarterfinals. To achieve a successful performance, the squad must tighten possession and play as a unit. In extra time, both teams had a great chance to break through the tie, and there could only be one winner. At the 98th minute, Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie almost scored but couldn’t get her left foot in the goal.During the final few minutes of the first extra time, Nigeria grabbed control of the ball, while England appeared exhausted and hoped for further success. Both teams convened on their respective sides to devise fresh methods to keep the game alive in the hope of a match winner. When the second half of extra time began, both sides carried possession but needed to break the tie. At the 110th minute, Nigeria’s Francisca Ordega had almost scored, and England is fortunate to remain in the game. Nigeria nearly scored the game-winning goal in the 117th minute, but Mary Earps made a fantastic stop on the ball. At the 118th minute, England received a few kicks, and Millie Bright nearly gave the Lionesses a victory goal, but it fell short of her foot. Extra time has ended, and both sides will now compete in a penalty shootout.
During the Penalty Shootout, it is determined that England and Nigeria will have to go to sudden death to see which side can win the match; this is the FIFA Women’s World Cup’s second penalty shootout since USA vs Sweden took a mighty victory to crush the American Dream of getting another repeat. It all began in England. Georgia Stanway, but she missed the far left goal. When Nigerian Desire Oparnozie attempted the penalty kick, it was unsuccessful in the same manner. Bethany England went up and scored the goal, maintaining her perfect career record in all penalty shootouts. Mary Herps desires to save England, but Michelle Alozie of Nigeria booted it too high, giving England belief. Rachel Daly rose up and kicked it inside the top left corner of the goal post, giving England a better chance of winning the penalty shootout. Rasheedat Ajiibade of Nigeria was fortunate just to score when she took the kick. By the time Alex Greenwood of England stepped up to take the penalty shot, the ball had already gone inside the right goal post. When Nigeria’s Christy Ucheibe scored a penalty kick, Herp did not move. When it was Chloe Kelly’s time, it was established that she assisted England in winning the European Championship, that she scored a penalty winner in the 2023 Women’s Finalissima against Brazil, and that she now has the chance to win it in the Round of 16 Penalty Shootout. Kelly scored by kicking the ball, giving England a courageous win in the first knockout match of the Round of 16.
Both England and Nigeria huddled up and give handshakes for a really good performance. Others got upset and cheered them up that the team has played their best which it shows heroism and dedication of their positive spirit to teach young girls could play soccer in future generations to show what a soccer match should really mean to give credit. Although England had struggled to keep possession of the ball and lack of scoring opportunities which they didnโt use enough confidence to keep the match alive, but the team was lucky enough to move on the next round. The Lionesses will now face either Columbia or Jamaica in the quarterfinals.
Even though Nigeria was very strong throughout the match, the Lionesses had their finest effort. They must now concentrate on the pressure, even if they begin to fall short on their most successful players, in order to desire the performance and reclaim their clever moves.
When my twin brother Ryan and I were born prematurely both of us were 3 lbs and over two months early. I was diagnosed with moderate Cerebral Palsy (CP) at birth. Which means I have a brain hemorrhage in a very rare spot. My Cerebral Palsy affects my entire right side. When I was 22 years old I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). POTS means my heart rate goes very high and if I stand up or change positions too fast I pass out and my blood pressure goes very low. My Cerebral Palsy makes my POTS even more challenging. When I was 24 years old I was diagnosed with Epilepsy. Epilepsy (seizures) my Epilepsy spot is right next to my brain hemorrhage. Which makes my Epilepsy even more challenging. On top of me having Cerebral Palsy and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. I have to carry my emergency seizure medicine and wear my Apple Watch at all times. My medical team at (St. Charles Hospital) is amazing. They go above and beyond for me. I donโt know where I would be with them. At every stage of my life, I learn and accept that my life is harder than typical peopleโs before all of my diagnoses. But that doesnโt stop me. Even with all of my diagnoses Iโm still not letting them hold me back from what I do with my life.
2Education/Molly: All of my schooling was very challenging but I did it. Thank God that Individualized Education (IEP) was so detailed and grew with me. From Elementary school to College, I had to work twice as hard as my peers because of all of my learning disabilities as well as my diagnoses. Resource room teachers from Elementary school to High school were great at realizing that I was having trouble and trying to find a solution. I would always ask the teacher if I was having trouble or if they could tell me facial expressions. As I entered Junior school and High school the material got because I was in Regents level classes. Which meant more homework and tests. My stress levels increased. But they were almost therapists to me because they would try to find a solution. If that didnโt work they would have a meeting with my teacher. Between myself, my resource room teacher, and my class teacher we would usually find a solution or have extra accommodation for that class. By Senior year my IEP was the size of a textbook with all of my accommodations. Once I entered College for my Bachelorโs Degree I had to find a College that had a great disability program. If they didnโt have that program I wouldnโt succeed. If I had a problem with a teacher, even after I asked the teacher. They would tell the teacher and help to find a solution. I even had a guidance counselor (Leighann) that was my lifeline. I would email her every day, and I would have a weekly meeting with her. If I didnโt have I didnโt her wouldnโt have been successful. When I got my Masterโs Degree my College also had a great disability program and my teachers would email me, to see if I was having any problems with the material. From Elementary school to graduating with my Masterโs Degree I went to a lot of tutoring and extra help sessions to better understand the material. Since graduating with my Masterโs Degree itโs been very difficult for me to find a job with all of my diagnoses. Iโm currently trying to get a job with the government in healthcare administration and leadership, thatโs what my degrees are. When I was in College I was suicidal from all of the homework, tests, and stress. My therapist told me to bond with my rescue dog, Molly, which helped a ton. Without bonding with her. Thereโs no doubt in my mind, Coach Steve, Coach Bob, Chloe, Charmaine, Leighann, and my medical teamโs minds that I wouldnโt be alive today. During this time I joined Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program Para-Athletics without the head Coaches Steve and Bob, Chloe and Charmaine watched out to see if I was displaying any suicidal signs during practice, road races, and track meets I joined this Track and Field Team help me feel included without any judgment because everyone understands what I was through. They listened to me and did everything I needed to still be alive. Even when Molly passed during the Coronavirus-19 Pandemic, everyone was there for them checking in on me to see if I was okay and not displaying any suicidal signs. Without all of these people and Molly, I wouldโve committed suicide. Thatโs another of the many reasons why Iโm so appreciative of these people because they didnโt have but they wanted to.
3Obstacles To Challenges /Training For Summer Paralympics Paris 2024/Field Hockey:
Iโve had many obstacles in my life. My medical team, Physical Therapists, and Occupational Therapists have been there the whole time. They have helped me turn everyday life activities that were insanely hard for me that turned into challenges because Itโs very hard for me to use my right limbs, right fingers, and right toes even though I was stubborn and didnโt want to do them. But I had to be able to function in activities of daily life and be a successful functional person in society. I had to be successful to meet every goal the way they wanted which was โthe correct wayโ or I failed the goal and had to keep working on the goal. I tried to find a shortcut for every goal but it didn’t work whatsoever. Even though all of these goals were hard to meet, I am a successful functional person in society. Thanks to their great work and for handling my stubbornness.
As for my training for The Summer Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 for Track and Field. My Track and Field Team is (Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program Para-Athletics) which is for disabled athletes, most of my teammates have Autism. The head coaches are Steve and Bob. There have been so many obstacles because of all of my diagnoses. Trying to figure out a way that I could successfully run without falling, passing out, or having a seizure. At every practice, I wear my helmet to help in case of emergency. But I didnโt give up and my coaches and pacers on my team didnโt either. Trying to successfully finish practice has also been an obstacle to my safety. I have to have modified practice, wear my helmet, have extra water breaks, and have to wear cooling towels when itโs hot out in case I have an emergency. Even use Quench Gum and Jelly Belly Sport Beans before and during every practice, road races, and track meet. To help me not have an emergency. All of my coaches and my pacers know my faces when I display those symptoms that Iโm about to pass out or have a seizure. Another obstacle that turned into a challenge was running road
races successfully and not falling, passing out, or having a seizure. When I run road races I have my two pacers (Chloe and Charmaine) with me. One pacer is in front of me watching it to see if thereโs a curb, a pothole, or if the road is uneven. My other pacer is next to me. I have to wear my leg brace, water hydration backpack, and helmet. In case anything happens to me. As well, in case I have a seizure they were taught how to give me my emergency seizure medication. That was difficult to solve, especially for my safety. My two pacers are amazing for keeping me safe. Even during the road race, they will not tell me what mile weโre at. They will only look at my Apple Watch which displays my heart rate. Theyโre constantly looking at my face to see if Iโm about to pass out or have a seizure. Because they know my faces when I display those symptoms.
In terms of throwing the Shot Put and Discus that was a challenge trying to figure out how I would hold them and successfully throw them. My coaches and I figured out a way that works for me. As of writing, Iโm on the Long Island Track and Field Team and the New York State Track and Field Team which I was surprised about. But itโs all because of my hard work. Of course, all my coaches go the extra mile. But didnโt any of these challenges stop me from quitting the team. Iโm indebted to all of my coaches for them not giving up on me. I didnโt stop because it was an obstacle for me. All of these obstacles have helped me compete in track meets, most of them Iโm competing against typical athletes.
Specifically, Training for The Summer Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 for Track and Field has been a challenge because I have to put in a ton of more work at practice, during the Road Races, and I have extra workouts that my other teammates donโt have. I have to a Paralympic Standards for the Cerebral Palsy (CP) category to be considered to compete in The Summer Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. Those Paralympic Standards for 100 meters, 200 meters, and Shot Put are very challenging, especially having moderate Cerebral Palsy (CP) because of the modifications I had to figure out and master to try to meet those Paralympic Standards as of this moment Iโm writing this am I very close of meeting those Paralympic Standards. Each of my coaches, my pacers, and my personal Iโm so thankful for to have them in my life. Iโm currently 0.10 seconds off of the CP Paralympic standard for the 100 meters dash. Iโm currently 15 seconds off of the CP Paralympic standard for the 200 meters dash. Iโm 1.22 meters off of the CP Paralympic standard for the Shot Put. Iโm currently 9 meters off the CP Paralympic standard for Discus. Running my last 5K (3.1 miles) road race I got a Personal Record by over 4 minutes.
I also have a personal trainer (Ryan) from (Whit Fit/Oompf Fit-Club) helping to increase my strength on both sides of my body. Helping me enhance my sprinting form. He has done the same thing with my Shot Put and Discus form. Having me practice these skills during every session. These sessions arenโt easy at all. But my favorite exercise is pulling the sled. As Iโm writing this, the most weight I pulled on the sled is 315 lbs. My best pulling the sled while sprinting is 220 lbs. As of me writing this. Pulling the sled makes me so happy and my trainer knows it. But itโs super challenging especially since my Cerebral Palsy right side doesnโt work as well as my non-affected side in every exercise. Especially my Cerebral Palsy fingers because itโs hard to hold the grips on all of the machines that I have use special grips that I can hold on to while doing strength exercises. I have no control of my right fingers and my right toes due to my Cerebral Palsy right side while also using machines hard to use. My trainer has to do twice the amount of work trying to modify everything because of my Cerebral Palsy but heโs willing to do it for me to achieve my goals. Which he doesnโt have to do. Again he goes the extra mile which Iโm thankful for.
I also play Field Hockey for (Long Island Field Hockey on their Field Hockey 4 All Team). Thatโs been an obstacle as well trying to figure out how to hold the Field Hockey stick with only my left arm because I canโt grip the Field Hockey stick with my right arm. Figuring out how to hold the stick, hit the ball, and run at the same time was a challenge to master. Iโm grateful to my head coaches (Danielle and Mallory) for helping me to figure out how to play the game safely. I also have to wear my leg brace, my helmet, and a sports sling on my right arm since I canโt hold the stick, during practices and tournaments. I also made the National Disabled Program Field Hockey Team. I was shocked that I made the team. But I didnโt give up and neither did they.
Having relationships with everyone that I wrote about in these blogs have been there in the happy times in my life as well the dark times of life. They were all listening to me, and were willing to find a solution, all at the time being so supportive itโs not even funny. I know that no one of the people had to do that but they were happy to do it. I will have a relationship with them. I have no doubt they will do anything for me and thatโs why they will have a special part in my heart. Thereโs no way Iโll ever be able to repay them. Iโm so thankful and blessed beyond belief to have all of them in my life and will have a relationship with them for the rest of my life.
The tournament was hosted in Australia and New Zealand for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the competition began with England vs. Haiti. England was recognized as the 2022 Women’s European Champions, and one of their accomplishments was winning the World Cup. On the other side, the Haitian Women’s National Team made its World Cup debut in order to demonstrate their country that they can have a positive outlook despite coping with natural disasters in their home country, as well as to show fans that women can play soccer just as well as men. England’s first match was hosted in The Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland. Coach Sabrina Wiegman, who previously coached the Netherlands to glory in the 2017 Women’s Euro Finals, is currently coaching England’s next generation of female footballers.
The Lionesses started off with Chloe Kelly, who helped England achieve the European Championship last season. She got her time in the fourth minute and attempted to kick for distance, but Kerly Thรฉus, the goaltender, saved it. Georgia Stanway had the opportunity to maintain the ball in midfield in the fifth minute although was unable to hold it off. Roselord Borgella of Haiti nearly scored the team’s inaugural goal in the 14th minute, but an enormous run caused her to kick it far right. Chloe Kelly attempted a cross-kick to Alessia Russo in the 21st minute, but the goaltender made a superb save.
During the 25th minute, while England attempted a corner kick, the Lionesses were ready to take possession of the ball when Lucy Bronze signaled that Haiti had been caught for handball inside the penalty area. The referee conducted a review and it was judged a penalty, with Georgia Stanway taking charge of the penalty kick. After Georgia Stanway’s first penalty was saved, the referee determined that it appeared the defending goalkeeper had left her line earlier than expected which England are managed to retry their penalty kick. Stanway then returned to the same spot to give England a 1-0 lead. England is 13-2-0 in the Women’s World Cup when scoring first. The roaring crowd give the atmosphere their approval and viewed it as proof of their strength. Lucy Bronze offered it to Georgia Stanway, who immediately passed it to Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp, who took an unexpected run to grab the goal, which ultimately was deflected by the goaltender. England believed throughout the final five minutes, including stoppage time, that Haiti had gained momentum on power until halftime. Because it was a competitive match throughout most of the time, the crowd cheered on both teams for showing spirit of the power of play.
SECOND TIME'S THE CHARM FOR ENGLAND!
GEORGIA STANWAY SCORES THE FIRST GOAL FOR THE LIONESSES AT THE 2023 FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ฅ๓ ฎ๓ ง๓ ฟ๐ฆ pic.twitter.com/fweSNHjn76
Melchine Dumornay of Haiti rushed the ball and carried out a strong kick in the 50th minute, and Mary Earps, England’s goalkeeper, managed to send it away and Keira Walsh capitalized to move outside of the goal zone. During the 58th minute, Ella Toone passed the ball to Alessia Russo, who took the run and Haiti’s defense took the ball and kicked it out of the zone, but England quickly came once more after 30 seconds with a chance from Russo, which Haiti encounters more power on using the ball to give England greater pressure. Stanway had a long pass kick to Russo in the 64th minute but sent it a little too high, which the goaltender stopped like a punt for volleyball. Kerly Thรฉus began to become more dangerous at punting the ball about, which England was intent on capitalizing on for the purpose to get a second goal. Lucy Bronze delivered to Alex Greenwood in the 74th minute but kicked above the goalie, which Russo did not succeed to use the header in the vicinity of the goal. Her aggressive defense maintained everything compact for her teammates as they battled for survival. Chloe Kelly intended to utilize the ball in the 79th minute but intended to raise her hand for handball, therefore Lucy Bronze made the decision to loop the cross to Bethany England, who beat Thรฉus but swiftly pulled away. When Kelly dribbled the ball and shifted around Thรฉus in the 81st minute, Millie Bright provided it to Bronze, who subsequently gave it to Stanway. Nerillia Mondesir seized the ball and sprinted on the opposite side of the field shortly after, but Jess Carter guarded her as Roseline Eloissaint nearly equaled the match for Haiti before Earps made an exceptional save and punted it out. Daly came close to her chances of giving England the advantage when Kelly passed the ball around the outside of her cross in the 82nd minute. Throughout the whole match, England and Haiti engaged in continuous, intense contemplation. Finally, both teams committed several foolish fouls and a few injuries, which made the game extremely close overall. Haiti took a corner kick in the 91st minute, which Earps volleyed out and punched away. England responded forcefully, especially when Haiti kicked it out for a high ball. Haiti, on the other side, played really well for their first game even though the match finished with England winning 1-0, Haiti played really well in their debut match, but they were unable to overcome England, despite their excellent play.
The Lionesses has played their performance despite that without their loyalists Beth Mead and Leah Williamson, England prevailed to secure out an exhausting victory over a feisty young Haitian squad. Its lone goal occurred upon a penalty kick in the first half. Sarina Wiegman, the team’s coach, has to figure out a method to get her team back on track after winning the Euros last year. Which England has to be more assertive in order to for her team to do well in the World Cup Knockoff Stage. However the Lionesses did well with a large crowd that did great on supporting them and showed their effort that women can play football or soccer as well. England kept their loyal spirit up and show the world that they want to be the best of Europe included the world to show their characteristics.
The 2 Teams that are currently in the Top 5 Ladder of the League so far this season. Both Melbourne Demons and the Brisbane Lions had a really strong which one of them is best for defense and the other is for offense. The Match was hosted at the Melbourne Cricket Ground which is known as the MGG. One the battle of 3rd Place could be one winner in Round 18 of the 2023 AFL Season to be in the new current ladder while Collingwood is remained the top team of the league just behind Port Adelaide.
The match started with a goal from Alex Neal-Bullen which Melbourne took an early lead. Then Ed Langdon kicked it on the edge of the field to Christian Pentracca and kicked it to advantage the second goal. Pentracca had another goal in the 50 meter kick which they dominated in the first quarter. The Demons took charge and scores another goal from Ben Brown the key forward and took another 50 metre goal kick. The Lions couldnโt be pulled through the defense and had no chance of going front until more than 10 minutes left which Zac Bailey caught the footy on the mark and kicked it at the 50 metre line which give the Lions a goal. The Dees had another way to get a goal with a few passes from Jake Melksham to Ben Brown for a quick mark and quickly give it to Charlie Spargo and kicked it inside the goal square and expanded their lead. The Crowd was pumped that the Demons continued to play their part to stump the Lions. It took Brisbane a while to head themselves on the scoreboard with 2 behinds until Charlie Cameron got the footy inside the 50 metre circle and took the goal for the Lions. In the meantime, Kysaiah Pickett held the ball and then kick a high shot by the post and excitedly made it into which the fans went wild for the time of their lives. Joe Daniher of the Lions held the ball right before the siren sounded to wrap up the 1st Quarter which he was lucky enough to kick the footy up and went for the goal which the Brisbane Lions Fans were delighted to see them get closer but had plenty of time to make the effort. It was a splendid game for a Friday Night of Football.
The 2nd Quarter started with a Melbourne Behind but quickly became a goal from an interception from Conor McKenna of the Lions to Jake Bowey of the Dees who went for a powerful kick to help Melbourne resume their lead. Then Brisbane responded quickly to get more possession which give them help from Will Ashcroft and dodge a long kick to Oscar Mclnerney and ran a few steps to kick the ball near the goal square and the Lions woke the spirit to bring back their lead. Then the Lions each had the ball for a pass and give it to Ashcroft and kicked the footy on the edge of the field but managed to kick it out wide to the goal for a flying shot. When Melbourne was about control the backside of the field, Jaspa Fletcher intercepted the ball and ran all the way to the inside of the 50 metre circle and got a goal for Brisbane. Afterward, Jack Gunston helped the Lions get the lead for the first time of the night by a margin. It didnโt last when the Demons made some passes and give it to Christian Petracca who eventually regain Melbourne back their lead. The Lions had got some passes from Gunston, McKenna, and Mcinerney and handed them to Cameron who took the mark on the edge of the AFL TOYOTA logo outside of the centre square. So eventually, Dayne Zorko kicked it to Joe Daniher who took a long range to Zac Bailey and dive into the goal square which the siren sounded when it was about to go off to Halftime and Bailey took the goal advantage for the Lions. The Lions took the lead 8.3 (51) to 8.4 (52) by a margin.
3rd Quarter Hugh MccLuggage decided to keep the ball so he can hold it after the mark so he waited patiently and pass it to Blake Coleman. He then passed it to Lincoln McCarthy and caught it inside the 50 metre centre and got the goal for the Lions. Tom Sparrow was tackled by Ryan Lester and gives it to Jack Viney which eventually give it to Taj Woewodin and kick on a long range for a goal on the corner of the field which give the Demons a close spot to get back the lead. When the Refree toss the ball up, Lachie Neale ran the ball and gives it to Jack Gunston which got a goal to give the Brisbane Lions the extensive lead. The Lions took charge of the 3rd Quarter and Zac Bailey did a monstrous goal after going pass through the defense of Melbourne. The Brisbane supporters were going insane for continuing their lead. After a quick tackle, Jarryd Lyons kicked the ball inside the 50 metre circle and landed over the goal square which the Lions became powerful of this match. The Lions was on the back side of the field and ran a couple of passes outside the centre square and gives it to Keidean Coleman and kicked it to Jack Gunston and got the ball inside the circle which eventually got the goal for the Lions. After the point that Melbourne was down over 30, they quickly tried to catch up with a good roll and Kysaiah Pickett was able to help the Demons back to scoring opportunities. The Lions were able to find a quick response with a few passes and gives it to Eric Hipwood and kicked the footy in the corner field which he was able to get the goal and the Lions has almost reached to victory lane. Max Gawn of the Demons has flourished in the solo ruck role which he launched a powerful goal up for high elevation accuracy which Melbourne got a massive goal. His style of power performance is like a rainmaker. The Demons almost got their interception but Zac Bailey quickly handed the ball to Charlie Cameron and made a sharp kick to get the goal. There was traffic congestion while getting the footy until Christian Petracca got the ball and kicked all the way.
When the 4th Quarter started, the Demons were down by 20 points margin with the Lions having the lead with 15.7 (97) to 12.5 (77). Melbourne had to find new strategies to get themselves into a victory position. It started with Max Gawn with a behind and then Brisbane took advantage of the footy and key defender Steven May was caught for push and complained to the referee about the contact which allow the Lions to score another goal so Joe Daniher was able to take the goal for Brisbane and roared up the lead. Eventually, Pickett was able to catch the ball but quickly dropped it and rebounded with the run that he kicked it out to the goal and give the Demons hope to get a narrow victory. While both teams each got a behind Jake Melksham of Melbourne caught the ball on the edge of the field before going out of bounds. He eventually made a corner kick and managed to get in the Center which the goal stand for Melbourne to get closer. With more than 2 minutes left on the clock, the referee threw the ball up and heavy traffic of players tried to get the ball and Jack Viney spins out which he snapped off the goal and need one more goal to get the winning moment. The Melbourne fans were excited to see what they could accomplish if they can get the winning opportunity.
At the 2 minute warning, the Lions and Demons resumed the battle of getting the footy while both defenders took charge of it but Melbourne had more offense chances to keep the team going forward. Coach Chris Fagan of the Brisbane Lions was getting worried because the Lions ran out of confidence and kept their momentum going which the opportunity has faded away from the chance of lack of communication between players and the team itself. Coach Simon Goodwin of the Melbourne Demons had faith that the Dees could find some way to get the winning goal because of their power. The Lions and Melbourne has passed each other on interceptions until Deven Robertson kicked it out of bounds to give more pressure on the ball. The next play was a saved from Max Gawn with a clean pass to Angus Brayshaw who kicked a high shot from the left until Jake Melksham took a dive on the mark and the fans roared the energy that Melksham could be the hero. The Dees had a very strong run throughout most of the match including the 4 Quarter. Jake Melksham has kicked it inside the 50 metre circle and just put the Demons up in front by a 1 point margin with 33 seconds left and the Melbourne Fans were hyped up for the win which The Dees had one of the most amazing comebacks of the season. The Homestand went wild and the celebration was like a victory. After the celebration, both teams resumed the play and Melbourne won the ball which Viney did a giant kick 50 yards to Jacob Van Rooyen but let go of the ball while he tried to pass Melksham. The Brisbane Lions had one more chance to score the winning goal or a behind to tie the game. Ryan Lester tried to get the ball and tackle on the field but Christian Salem stopped the play and tackled Brisbane to avoid their winning triumph. In the final 12 seconds of the match, the Lions all teamed up to pass the ball and hoped the long kick would help them get a mark. The Key Defender Jake Lever intercepted the ball inside the 50 metre circle to avoid the kick after the siren which the Lions demanded a review which Melbourne got the ball first and the siren has alarmed that the match is over and the Demons took a victory by a margin. The Melbourne Fans were electrified with the result of the match and it was a great performance. The Demon Players ran into the field and give out hugs and celebrations around and it was one of the most memorable victories of the season and all around brought smiles for their tremendous achievements.
Overall both teams played well but Melbourne was happy with the outcome of their match with a 1 point margin and Jake Melksham was the hero of the Demons. Coach was very pleased that the Demons had been given their courtesy in the final few minutes with the hard work and refused to let the Lions get the chance to take advantage which the buzzer didnโt do enough pass Melbourne for their victory. The Lions wouldโve taken a draw or a major comeback of the game which it wouldโve been the most thrilling for them. The Dees were able to grabbed the footy before the siren sounded to wrapped the game. Some of the Lions players were furious at the referee that one of them caught it fairly but didnโt review the play which it wasnโt fully saved for a mark.
SUBSTITUTES Melbourne: Joel Smith (replaced Harrison Petty in the third quarter) Brisbane: Deven Robertson (replaced Jarrod Berry in the fourth quarter)
The match started off with the Melbourne Football Club known as the Demons which had a strong start for their season. While the Ggreat Western Sydney Giants had some great victories in most of the close matches but the results werenโt great throughout the season hopefully after their bye week they can win more games so they can have a chance of going to the AFL 2023 Playoffs if they continue to gain confidence and momentum.
The match was hosted in Northern Territories which fans from Alice Springs rallied through rain and mud, with some travelling hundreds of kilometres to watch the Melbourne Demons and GWS Giants at Traeger Park. The event was about teaching Indigenous Australians how to enjoy a live footy match so they can people professional athletes like them. The match had some heavy downpours along the 3 hours of watching the match in all 4 quarters. It was nice that sometimes the AFL goes on special field Trips around the small grounds at minor league stadiums or academy grounds or they would go around the world to excite the fans how to enjoy the Australian Footy League. The few things that most professional sports leagues donโt get to do during the regular season. For example the American Football League would have some teams go on a field trip to London during the mid season. Other sports leagues would often go to similar venues or special events to show fans around the globe to enjoy the sport.
During the 1st Quarter, the Melbourne Demons and the Great Western Sydney Giants played in a gloomy cold weather in Alice Springs which it was supposed to be nice and warm. When the match started, the Dees had 3 behinds. While Haynes passed it inside the 50 meters circle, there was heavy traffic to grab the footy and Callum Brown has helped the Giants get the first goal and give the Giants a 6-3 early lead for the 3 point margin. Kysaiah Pickett took the ball and kicked it to Jake Melksham and landed it inside the 35. Jake Melksham kicked the ball at the 50 and give Melbourne the lead back 9-6. The rain had suddenly poured hard like the tropics during most of the match which both teams had trouble maintaining the ball and harder to score points on the board. The Demons had 2 more behinds and continued the lead into the 2nd Quarter.
It didnโt last while the Giants Captain Toby Greene kicked the ball near the goal square and landed a good goal. The Demons give another behind to level it up but the Giants tried to defend Joel Smith which was a soft kick out to Jake Bowey and give Melbourne the lead back. With 4 minutes left of the clock, Daniel Loyd held the footy and did a long stretch to the Giants while Melbourne did their defense which it landed straight to Greene got it for perfect accuracy, and got an easy goal for the Giants. During the 10 seconds before halftime, the Demons had other ideas to pass it on the edge of the centre square and Toby Greene intercepted the ball and ran it back to kick the ball inside the 50-meter circle while getting the buzzer beater which ended up as a behind and draw the match with 21-21.
During the 3rd Quarter both Melbourne and Great Western Sydney had each got a behind until Xavier O’Halloran got the goal and give the Giants returned the lead. While Greene kicked it a long range shot in the centre square to Jesse Hogan and Melbourne tackled it and struggled to make a pass which landed to Xavier to Greene and pass through traffic and give to Josh Kelly and took a high kick to give the Giants to extend their winning advantage. The Demons has created more turnovers which makes it difficult for them to maintain their possession. While Kieren Briggs punched the footy into the ground and gives it to Stephen Conilingo to Tom Green to Callum Brown and lastly to Issac Cumming. Isaac held the footy and kicked it inside the 50 metre line and just made it into the goal post which the Giants had 4 Goals in a row in the 3rd Quarter. 2 minutes later, Melbourne finally figured out in the goal zone and Brodie Grundy has helped Melbourne but themselves back on the scoreboard. The Dees had other options to find new ways to put themselves to gain access to demonize the Giants and Jake Bowie took control and passed it to Kysaiah Pickett who slide on his knees and managed to save it before getting the goal for Melbourne.
During the 4th Quarter, the fans are having a great time while watching a low scoring affair for a match but fans seemed to enjoy while the kids play in the puddles to get themselves entertained while being creative if they donโt wanna the entire game but still wanna have fun. The match was a 4 point margin while GWS Giants remained the lead 40-36. The Melbourne Football Club had to find a way to put themselves back the lead. While Ed Langdon didnโt have much action with the footy which he was able to do a high kick to finally give the Demons the lead 42-40. Callum Brown has wanted to keep his speed at his momentum until the edge and give it to Jesse Hogan. When Hogan tries to kick the ball for the goal which it was too close for a missed target which ended up as a behind. Meanwhile, Max Gawn passed it with heavy defense to Christian Petracca to Gawn and kicked to the Dees which Tom Sparrow failed to kick the goal which the Demons got another point. When the clock has 3 minutes left, the Giants were about to tire themselves out unless they find something to get a victory Sam Taylor intercepted the Demons and give it to Ryan Agwan and spotted Tom Green.
The footy Launch the kick to Josh Kelly and ran his life to use his left boot to kick a 60 yard goal which it touched the goal square and the GWS Giants has give themselves a winning opportunity with less than 3 minutes left on the clock. Both Demons and Giants had a massive collision battled for the footy which it got more exciting for the fans to hope for the winning goal by the buzzer. The Demons had to find the victory before time expired and Angus Brayshaw dripped over which give Melbourne the opportunity to get the winning goal but Alex Neal-Bullen had the chance to win it but it was far left which Melbourne failed to get the winning shot and had a behind with only a minute left. The Giants has spent the last two minutes defending the Dees while the Demons find one more opportunity to get the winning goal but the Giants intercepted the ball and tackled them halfway through the centre field. The Demons has lost their opportunity to get the winning goal and the Giants has held the game and triumph for the victory 47-45, which it was the lowest scoring match of the season. The Giants have won 4 of the 5 in recent matches and had improved their performance as Adam Kingsley helped the GWS Giants but themselves back to the game.
The Great Western Sydney Giants has improved their batting performance in the 2nd Half of the Season and had some lucky victories against the toughest opponents which most of the results were attributed to close games with both wins and defeats which means the Giants have been able to to maintain their advantage which the results can be seen some ups and downs. However, their dominance has never surrendered and if they continue to get more victories and teams in the bottom ladder of the league, they have a greater chance of being in the Playoffs.
The most important thing is that the GWS Giants never surrender their power and played a tough match with the top 5 teams in the league. The heavy downpours did impact both Melbourne Football Club and Great Western Sydney Giants which had impressive success with the battle of the defense but the Giants were lucky enough to pull off a victory over Melbourne by a 2-point margin.
MELBOURNE FOOTBALL CLUB 1.5 2.9 4.12 5.15 (45) GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY GIANTS 1.0 3.3 6.4 7.5 (47)
GOALS Melbourne: Bowey, Grundy, Langdon, Melksham, Pickett Greater Western Sydney: Greene 2, Kelly 2, Brown, Cumming, O’Halloran
BEST Melbourne: Viney, Hunter, Petracca, May Bowey, Pickett Greater Western Sydney: Coniglio, Green, Kelly, Greene, , Briggs, Himmelberg
INJURIES Melbourne: Fritsch (foot) Greater Western Sydney: Nil
SUBSTITUTES Melbourne: Jake Melksham (replaced at Bayley Fritsch in the first quarter) Greater Western Sydney: Ryan Angwin (replaced Daniel Lloyd in the fourth quarter)
The Battle of the Bridge, is occasionally referred to as the Sydney Derby. It is based on a local Australian Football League (AFL) derby game between two Sydney-based clubs. The Sydney Swans and the Greater Western Sydney Giants are the two teams in Sydney, New South Wales. Since 2012, both of these teams have played against one another. Additionally, the Brett Kirk Medal is awarded at the conclusion of every match during the course of the regular season.
Despite the fact that it was the Sydney Derby on a dreary Saturday afternoon with a few passing rains, it was also Toby Bedford’s debut for the GWS Giants, for whom he had previously played for the Melbourne Demons. It was another welcoming moment for the Giants, who were pleased to add additional talent as the young players were ready to make a move and join the elite group of players. It was also Adam Kingsley’s first Sydney Derby as the GWS Giants’ head coach, while John Longmire has been the senior coach of the Sydney Swans since 2011 and has witnessed every Battle of the Bridge Derby since the GWS Giants began playing in the Australian Premiership Football League, which has been 10 years of the battle, which will now be 11 during the 2023 Season as upon the chapter of the two Sydney Rival Teams. It was the 25th meeting of the Sydney Derby, which meant there would be some exciting and exhilarating moments for both teams as they contended for the best team of the competition.
When the Sydney Derby’s first quarter began, both teams engaged in some pushing, contacting, and ruffing before beginning the clearance. Toby Greene threw the ball inside the 50-metre line to Toby Bedford, who scored his first goal for the Giants, putting them ahead early. On his GWS debut, Toby Bedford scores the game’s first goal, which comes from a turnover. The Swans earned a rushed behind, and Toby Greene scored to retake the lead. To prevent any risk, Tom Papley got himself a behind and kicked it in the ground. Peter Ladhams sneaks inside the 50-yard line and booted to score, much to the delight of Swans fans.Jesse Hogan blasted a goal from within the 30-meter box, that in the end caused the Giants to for a rushed behind. When Callan Ward kicked the footy to Greene, it bounced in the goal square but was blocked by the Swans defense, so Greene passed it to Brent Daniels, who actually passed it to Harry Perryman, who finished the job with a goal. Will Hayward also scores for Swans, reducing the deficit to 11 points, with Luke Parker assisting. Finn Callaghan fumbled the ball and passed it to Jack Buckley, who tackled and overturned it to Jake Lloyd, who stepped up and booted it to Hayden McLean. He was able to finish the first quarter with a late goal after the siren.
The GWS achieved the opening clearance of the second quarter, while Coniglio had the ball in the center square and passed it to Hogan, who then passed it back to Perryman, who scored on a steal goal from Xavier O’Halloran. After that, Tom Papley got another behind, and Logan McDonald scored from long range at the square center to the goal square, which Haynes struggled to dive for a block on. Matt Flynn was seen in the half forward flank position and threw the ball to Stephen Coniglio, who scored to give the Swans the lead. The Swans attempted a quick kick, but Ryan Angwin intercepted it and ran it on the outside of the field. The Swans attempted immediate effect kick, but Ryan Angwin recovered the ball from O’Halloran and raced it to the 50-metre line, giving the Giants another goal to increase their advantage in the spot for another goal. Peter Lamhams received the ball after the clearing was kicked to Lance Franklin, who scored for the Swans. Lance Franklin scores his first major since returning from injury, although he has already been targeted twice in the second quarter for a goal return. The Giants attempted to assemble the position, but Harry Himmelberg tossed the ball up in the air to Aaron Cadman, who scored inside the 30 metre line. While Luke Parker had the ball following an immediate clearance advantage and kicked the ball into the center square, Will Hayward caught the ball and did not include apprehensive of dropping it for an easy catch for a huge grab. Both teams continued to push and battle, and Hayward ultimately scored a goal for the Swans, making the game even more exciting. As the Swans, Ryan Clarke and Will Hayward both had a behind, but Issac Henney kicked the ball to the center, awaiting someone would jump up to receive the ball, which Lance Franklin secured. Callum Mills kicked it to Franklin, who finally scored after the whistle and smashes it to come closer. The Swans adopted power of the Giants forward position with defense but had some drops and pass it to Finn Callaghan for an interception and pass it to Tom Green for an interception and pass it to Xavier O’Halloran for a long kick but it was about to get a goal but it ended up a behind short from the post while Hogan touched the goalpost. Toby Greene, on the other hand, received the ball and dropped it to Hayward, who fumbled to the Swans, which Matt Flynn defended, allowing the Giants to have the ball to Conilgo and Bedford, who gave an insignificant flip to Grenne, who did a dive and finally scored. James Peatling scored on a behind to send the match to halftime despite the Giants throughout the process of taking the lead 9.7 (57) to 7.5 (47).
As soon as the third quarter began, the Swans took control and Franklin kicked the ball to get the score. Franklin followed by passing the ball to Hayward at a Centering Kick, which Errol Gulden caught by the goal square and gave the Swans a commanding lead for the very first time in the remainder of the game. The Swans maintained their lead with a behind from Franklin, another goal from Hayward, and a rushed behind from Issac Heaney. The Giants ultimately achieved something miraculous when Callum Brown kicked it in the Centre Square with a long range pass to Callaghan and dropped the footy to Conligio with the spin inside the 50 metre and launched it and bounced it all the way to the goal square to count it out as a goal, leaving the Giants lost for words. The Swans attempted another goal, which was prevented by the defense, so Gulden sprinted beyond the 50-metre line to kick it back to Logan McDonald, who saved it on his knees and was able to jump up and score for the Swans. McDonald was able to score another goal, and Franklin quickly followed a behind. While the Giants had alternative strategies, Cadman kicked it to Himmelberg, who plucked it and saved to take the mark before enacting to Hogan, who succeeded to save the footy at the goal square after his second catch, allowing the Giants to get an infinite goal. While Coniglio cleared it to Hogan, he took an instantaneous drop and handed it to Brent Daniels, who was able to score from the 50-metre line. The Swans finished the third quarter with McDonald catching the ball but dropping it, so Tom Paley took the sacrifice and scored.
The fourth quarter began with the Swans players passing it to each other while take knowledge of towards Ryan Clarke inside the 30 metre line, he scored a goal to resume the lead for Sydney which Luke Parker helped the Swans by being tackled in the 50 metre line, he ultimately kicked it and rolled it towards the goal square to get another miraculous goal to extend their lead. The Swans start the final quarter strongly, scoring two goals, one of which was a centre bounce. When Josh Kelly snatched the ball, he carried it out of the center square and kicked it to Harry Himmelberg into the metre circle, where he scored from a 40-metre range but had enough space for a simple goal. The Giants possessed plenty of time to catch up to the Swans since the game was still underway in the Final Quarter. When Heeney had the ball, he passed it to Paley, who kicked it to Marc Sheather, who almost seized the ball but somehow went high in the air, so Harry Rawston almost intercepted the footy, but Chad Warner kicked the ball for a screamer goal out of nowhere. The Swans remained dominant for the majority of the second half of the Sydney Derby, pushing the Giants to find a staggery in order to get closer in addition to win. Rowston swiftly passed it to Coniglio inside the centre square and kicked it to O’ Halloran, but it was quickly intercepted by Toby Greene, who kept the ball in the ground until the whistle sounded. Bedford had the opportunity, but it was too early to call it, but they tried it again with the clearance, and Hogan kicked a low ball by rolling it towards Jake Riccardi, but threw it to Toby Greene, who kicked it into the goal like a soccer ball, providing the Giants some hope. Toby Greene scores his third goal of the match, cutting the deficit to 17 points. He played a part to eight goals and all three of his inside 50s have resulted in goals. Coniglio dropped the ball from the defense and allowed it roll in the direction of Harry Perryman who kicked the goal and slide which he was able to accomplish before the two defensemen slip to dive which the Swans had failed to capitalize on in time. Tom Greene booted long enough for Toby Greene outside the 50 metre line, who let the ball float through the goal zone until Brent Daniels tried to receive it at the skip bounce but was unable to get the ball in time, resulting in a behind. There has been some teamwork in every passing move of the Giants that gives to footy from Callum Brown and Jack Buckley for the steal which somehow pass it to Brent Daniels but converts it to Josh Kelly and gives an immediate pass to James Peatling which shifts it to Tom Green and pass it to Harry Rowston but kicks it and dropped in the 25 metre which Toby Greene held it and stop the play. Harry Himmelberg eventually received the ball on the following play, but he booted it on to the right side of the goal to escape the traffic with a behind. The Giants were behind 95-105 with seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, but there was still time for a comeback. When Haynes took the back pocket to stop the ball, he ultimately kicked it from long distance to Harry Perryman, and Nick Blankey tried to defend it, but Perryman ran but dropped it, so Toby Bedford and Toby Greene collaborated up to have the ball, and Greene kicked it back to Perryman, who landed inside the 50 metre line. He took the kick at the 50-metre line and sailed it ahead for the Giants to receive the winning opportunity, which he converted with his second goal of the quarter, bringing his game total to three. This increases the lead to four points. The game was last led by GWS in the first few minutes of the third quarter. With only 5 minutes remaining, the Swans are seeking assistance in order to secure their victory by maintaining their lead. Parker booted a long distance to Lance Franklin but failed to convert it, then Will Hayward performed a rapid roll to Corey Warner, who kicked to the goal line but McDonald was unable to receive it in time, resulting in a behind. The Giants conducted an excellent job guarding the Swans, prevented them from getting the game-winning goal with several passes from the line of defense while maintaining the game competitive.
At the 2 Minute warning, The storm clouds were about to take over Sydney but it didn’t effect the match before the storm took over for another of rain on the way which Haynes started at the back pocket and kicks it to Lachie Ash but dropped the ball to Chad Warner and took long range to hope for the Swans to take the winning goal but a great catch from Jack Buckley before it went over the goal line which it would not count for the rushed behind which it would’ve been an important part for theGiants to level it up if they could’ve get the goal next. way. The Key Defender kicked it to Lachie Whitfield but put it out of bounds to Issac Cumming with the defense from Issac Heeney. It was the Swans ball and start it off with Stephen Coniglio which drop the ball to Conor Idun and gives it to Josh Kelly but held it in for the Giants to keep the play going. Kelly did the cross kick to Hayne in the back field while did a quick pass to Buckley and launches it to Toby Greene. After a quick stoppage in play, Greene launch it to Jesse Hogan and almost caught his hands to catch the footy which ended up to Toby Bedford which Nick Blankey pushed the ball out of bounds. Within 55 seconds left on the clock, it was all down to the wire to decide that would would determine the winner. Since it’s inside the Metre zone, that would allow Toby greene to capitalize a way to get the winning opptruinity by to be the playmaker of the match which it could be really important for the Giants to get a victory at this stage. The Referee throw the ball up in the air and let Peter Ladhams to get up front but Harry Himmelberg moved up front to get the ball first and almost got the mark which it was thrown away and pass it to Toby Greene after he was tackle by the Swans Defenseman. Toby Greene got the footy which took a quick spin to stay out from congestion, threw it on his right boot and watched it sail over and launches up into the air for the Giants to take the lead at last with 42 seconds remaining. The celebration was all over hugs from his teammates for the joy from Himmelberg for a quick pass the Capitan Greene Machine for an outstanding play which it was a perfect way to get themselves back the lead. The Swans has a little time left for a behind to tie the game or take the win for the goal but it could be the Giants Defense to take control for the final seconds to make every play count. The Swans took the clearance but Callum Mills failed to take control of the ball which the Giants Defense let it roll for Errol Gulden and launches it but Lachie Whitfield intercepted the ball to give the Giants and extra life of pendent with 30 seconds left remaining. He started off with a long kick to Matt Flynn which didn’t take the mark but Braeden Campbell from the Swans took it out of bounds. It was the last chance for the Swans to find a victory with 17 seconds left but it didnt last with Flynn but quickly drop and roll it to Xavier O’ Halloran which a quick steal to Chad Warner and ran it to give it to Mills and kicked it up in the edge of the centre square. There was no offense standing by which Whitfield intercept the footy which the referee did a quick stoppage and quickly play on the last 7 seconds. Whitfield quickly pass it to Finn Callaghan and snap the ball to Nick Haynes and launches the footy to center square which wrapped up the Match for the first victory for the Giants of the Battle of the Bridge match since 2021 during the Elimination Round and Round 5 of the regular season.
The pitch-black and turbulent clouds were about to take over Sydney at the 2 minute warning, but it didn’t affect the match before the storm took over for an additional of the rain on the way which Haynes started at the back pocket and kicked it to Lachie Ash but dropped the ball to Chad Warner and took long range to hope for the Swans to take the winning goal but a great catch from Jack Buckley before it went over the goal line which it wouldn’t go either way. With the defense of Isaac Heeney, the Key Defender kicked it to Lachie Whitfield but put it out of bounds to Issac Cumming. It was the Swans’ ball, and it began with Stephen Coniglio, who passed the ball to Conor Idun, who subsequently handed it to Josh Kelly, who held it in for the Giants to continue the play. Kelly launched the cross kick to Hayne in the backfield before passing to Buckley and launching it to Toby Greene. After a brief pause in play, Greene sent it to Jesse Hogan, narrowly catching his hands to receive the ball, which ended up to Toby Bedford, who was shoved out of bounds by Nick Blankey. With just 55 seconds remaining on the clock, it was all down to the wire to decide who was going to prevail. Given that it’s inside the Metre zone, Toby Greene would be competent to capitalize on an excellent opportunity through his role as the match’s playmaker, which could be important for the Giants at this stage. The referee tossed the ball up in the air and allowed Peter Ladhams to go up front, however Harry Himmelberg moved ahead of him initially and almost grabbed the mark before it was thrown away, passing it to Toby Greene after he was tackled by a Swans defenseman. Toby Greene received the ball, rotated as quickly to prevent crowding, threw it on his right boot, and saw it go over and up into the air for the Giants to finally retrieve the lead with 42 seconds remaining. Celebrations from his teammates after the excitement of Himmelberg with a rapid pass to Capitan Greene Machine for an excellent decision that was an excellent strategy for getting themselves back in front. The Swans have a little time left to tie the game or triumph for the goal, but the Giants defense might seize control for the last seconds to make every play matter. The Swans took the clearance, but Callum Mills failed to take control of the ball, which the Giants defense facilitated roll for Errol Gulden, who blasted it, however Lachie Whitfield intercepted it, earning the Giants an additional life with 30 seconds remaining. He started with a long kick to Matt Flynn, which failed to reach the mark but was taken out of bounds with Swans’ Braeden Campbell. With 17 seconds remained it was the Swans’ last chance to claim the victory, but Flynn immediately dropped and rolled the ball towards Xavier O’ Halloran, who quickly stole it and raced it to throw it to Mills, who booted it up in the edge of the centre square. There was no offense available when Whitfield intercepted the ball, and the referee called a brief pause and rapid play on the last 7 seconds. Whitfield swiftly passed the ball to Finn Callaghan, who snapped the ball to Nick Haynes, who launched the football to center square, concluding the match for the Giants’ first victory in the Battle of the Bridge match since 2021 during the Elimination Round and Round 5 of the regular season.
A thrilling finish to the ‘Battle of the Bridge’, with the Giants finishing strong with the last four goals of the game.The match comes to a close after a thrilling match with the Battle of the Bridge Derby which, there was the Brett Kirk Medal to be awarded. Brett Kirk, a Sydney Swans AFL premiership player who was born and reared in New South Wales, was honored with this speciality award. The participant who receives this Award is Toby Greene because of his outstanding bravery and encouragement for helping the Giants to not surrender a tough battle of the Sydney Derby and brought light at the end of the tunnel.
SYDNEY 3.2 7.5 13.9 16.10 (106) GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY 4.1 9.3 12.3 17.5 (107)
BEST Sydney: Parker, Hayward, Warner, Gulden, Ladhams, Lloyd Greater Western Sydney: Greene, Coniglio, Callaghan, Green, Perryman
INJURIES Sydney Swans: Nil Greater Western Sydney Giants: Nil
SUBSTITUTES Sydney: Marc Sheather (replaced Angus Sheldrick in fourth quarter) Greater Western Sydney: Harry Rowston (replaced Aaron Cadman in fourth quarter)
