Round 6 saw the Toronto Rebels on the road again this time to Hamilton to play the Guelph Gargoyles who were carrying some solid form into the game. The Rebels were also in winning form so this looked to be an evenly matched encounter, especially with Scotty “I don’t need no PHD” playing his first game for 2011.

With a couple of last minute changes to the squad the lads were still able to come out firing kicking into a little breeze in the first quarter in what was quite a warm day. The Rebels had their fair share of the play and they were working hard through the middle and in the backline to pressure the Guelph team. However, the Gargoyles worked their way into the quarter late and managed to score a couple of cheap goals to lead at quarter time by 3 goals. The Rebels had the better of the quarter but could not capitalize on the opportunities.

The second quarter was a similar story as the Rebels started strongly but could not manage to get passed the Gargoyles defence to put the score on the board. Wade injured his ribs but as there was no Canadians to change with he showed character to stay on the ground and play a role up forward. Half time came and the Rebels knew they had played a decent half of footy, but some costly turnovers from skill errors saw them go into the main break 6 goals behind.

Not long into the 3rd quarter Hessy was doing what he does at the bottom of a pack when he was met with a hard collision that has ended his season with a serious neck injury. Things continued to not go the Rebels way in the third quarter as the lads fought bravely, but Guelph seemed to be playing a more polished brand of football and they were converting on the scoreboard.

The last quarter saw the Rebels worn down as most of the guys were out on their feet with very few interchanges for the day in warm conditions. They did not stop trying but the Guelph team kept their team fresh and finished the much stronger side.

A courageous performance from all the team and special thanks goes to Colonel who pulled the boots on for the Rebels after only coming down to watch. A lot of positives to take out of the game; we did have our fair share of possession especially in the first half. More work is needed in the coming weeks to learn to use the ball a little better, overall decision making, playing a full four quarters and backing yourself when approaching the football.

Finally, all at the club would like to send their warmest wishes for a quick recovery to Kieran Hess and his family as he begins the long recovery from a serious neck injury sustained in this game.

Final Score: Rebels 4.7.31 lost to Gargoyles 24.10.154.
Goals: Morgan King 3, Peter Bormann 1.
Best players: Cam Stark, Massimo, Fabs, Drago, Turtle

Let all get to training and give the Eagles a real shake this weekend.
Game is on June 25th at 10am at Humber South.