by Peter Argent
In the first match of division one of the 2023 National Under 18s Australian Rules talent program at Thebarton Oval on Sunday, May 14, West Broken Hill’s Jackson Savage donned the unique New South Wales state jumper.
Savage was part of a team which was made up from the best of Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Sydney Swans academy talents, effectively making the combination a New South Wales state team at the level.
They played the South Australia state Under 18 team which won by a comfortable 34-point margin, 11.14 (80) to 6.10 (46), although the margin could have been higher if the young Croweaters were more accurate in front of goal, especially early in the game.
“It was certainly a step up in pace from the Coates League competition, but I felt that I adjusted to that ok,” Savage told the Barrier Truth.
“I felt comfortable in defence, but didn’t see a lot of it when I was moved to half forward in the second half. I haven’t really played up forward at all so far in my career.
“I was going to play for Norwood this weekend, but the SANFL state league competition has a bye weekend. I am hoping to get down to play for the Redlegs in the next couple of weeks.”
After starting in defence, Savage spent the second half playing as a high half forward, which can be starvation corner for footballer, he still finished the game with 12 disposals, including nine kicks, along with being credited with a tackle and a one percenter. He is expected to play for the West Robins this weekend.
In other football news Broken Hill lads Harper Bromson and Talan Pitt enjoyed their first win in Norwood colours, both having a significant impact in the 10-point victory at Hisense Stadium, Richmond Oval on Saturday.
Bromson was among the best players for Norwood after kicking a game-high four goals in the 10.6 (66) to 8.8 (56) win finishing with 15 disposals, which included 12 kicks, took six marks, and won 11 hit outs when he was relieving in ruck. Pitt also hit the scoreboard as well, kicking two goals from his eight touches in the match. He took three marks and was credited with a tackle and a clearance.
