Club Notes

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Awesome effort by the players to overcome Mt Waverley and secure a grand final berth against Sth Yarra! All the best to the 21 players who will represent Canterbury today.

Many thanks to the volunteers who helped throughout the season, and in particular the reserve players who are still volunteering to run water etc.

Vote count, presentation night, AGM and Christmas dinner. Club rooms will still be open on Thursdays till end of September.

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In the reverse scenario to the reserves match, we got the jump in the first quarter to take the lead and keep it for the whole game. A hard fought battle, which saw our players staying disciplined and concentrating on the game (and the footy) in the spirit of good sportsmanship. Well done!
Best: Pearcy, Luke, Wombat, Jenko, Jezza and Manksy.

South Yarra kicked the first few goals into the wind and it took some time for us to respond. The wind wasn't a factor as the two teams adjusted to the conditions and started playing hard finals football. We battled hard all day and were only 2 goals down at three quarter time. Unfortunately, even though we kept going until the end, we couldn't make up the deficit.
Better players: H, Jimmy, JT, Chris S, Woody and Norto.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Milestone: Jason Wood celebrated his 200th game and was presented with the match ball signed by the team. Congratulations.

Past Players/Supporters Day was successful with past players offering sponsorship and support for Canterbury in the future. We are also adding to our growing collection of memorabilia. The weather stayed nice (no rain) and an enjoyable day was had by all. Dean McDonell received his posthumous life membership and his family were truly touched.

To top it off - both teams had good wins over Skye. We are ready to face the challenges of finals. Reserves play South Yarra and seniors play Skye.

Financial: Players must be financial (paid membership and uniform) with the club, or will not be eligible for finals selection.

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What a glorious win! We opened our account at the start and held our position throughout the game. A great team effort! Well done!

A disappointing loss. The game was there to be had, but no amount of excuses can ease that sinking feeling at the end. A hard fought battle which could have gone either way, it just didn't go ours.

Milestone: Jason Wood is celebrating his 200th game with the club this week! Good luck, hope we can get two wins to celebrate.

Financial: Players must be financial (paid membership and uniform) with the club, or will not be eligible for selection.

Past Players/Supporters Day.
Our last home game will be celebrated in style by inviting past players and supporters. Spit roast rolls will be available and a special presentation will be made straight after the senior game. Invite all partners and friends.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Milestone: Congratulations to Lachlan Giles on a successful 100th game with the club this week.

Two good wins. Now we need to be successful on the field in the next two weeks if we want to be serious finals contenders.

Financial: Players must be financial (paid membership and uniform) with the club, or will not be eligible for selection.

Volunteers: The club would not function without you. Many thanks to the people who offer their help week in and week out. Special mention to Heff (scoreboard), Judy (water carrier), trainers: Sue, Geoff, John, Em and Kathryn, canteen: Carol and her long list of helpers, team managers: Chris and Gary, bench: Roger, Timekeeper: Nick, Umpire escort: Andrew.
These people give their time willingly each week, without payment, to ensure that game days run smoothly. Many thanks.

The Trivia night was a great success. Thanks to all who attended. Congratulations to the winning table in what was a close competition. There will be a dinner at Sofias after training in the coming weeks. Miss Canterbury on August 16th. Past players/supporters day - last game of season, August 23rd.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Milestone: Lachlan Giles will play his 100th game with the club this week. Good luck, Lachy!

Two disappointing losses. Let's hit the track hard this week and train with feeling. Three games left in which to prove we are serious contenders and deserve our spot in the four.

Trivia night on 9th August, should be HUGE. Get a table together and join the fun! The compare is being flown in from Europe! Further information will be posted up in the rooms. There will be a dinner at Sofias after training in the coming weeks. Miss Canterbury on August 16th. Past players day - last game of season, August 23rd.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Congratulations to Bakes for cracking the 50 goal mark! (also reaching his personal highest tally for a game). Awesome effort. Well done to the team on a solid game. Be prepared for a strong tussle against Doveton this week.

The reserves had a bit of a training run and will be looking forward to the game this week.

Congratulations to Leigh for playing his 150th game with Canterbury! We also wish Bubba all the best in WA.

Trivia night on 9th August, should be HUGE. Get a table together and join the fun! The compare is being flown in from Europe! Further information will be posted up in the rooms. There will be a dinner at Sofias after training in the coming weeks. Miss Canterbury on August 16th. Past players day - last game of season, August 23rd.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

It was anybody's game until the last quarter, we were only down by 10 points at three quarter time. Hats off to South Yarra who looked like they wanted the ball more. We were not able to match their intensity for the ball in the last quarter.
Better players: Nat, Manksy, Wombat, Johnno, Hoff and Joel.

The game was fairly even until half time, but we were able to put the pressure on in the second half to finish 3 goals ahead at the final siren. Some team bonding must have occurred in the change rooms at half time!
Best: Woody, H, Jimmy B, Blades, Charlie and VB.

Congratulations: another milestone! Leigh Nelson will be playing his 150th game with Canterbury this week against Cerberus. Well done, Leigh.

Trivia night on 9th August. See Lamby to start organising a table and join the fun! Further information will be posted up in the rooms.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Another fierce battle for three quarters which saw us up by only 2 points going into the last quarter. Our determination and aggression at the ball were the deciding factors in the end, as we never lost sight of the final goal.
Best: Manksy, Pearcy, Vita, Coombsy, Jezza and Nat.

After leading at the end of the first quarter, we had to fight hard to keep the opposition from running away with the game. Skye increased their lead over the next three quarters and there was nothing that could be done to stop them. A hard fought battle that did not finish until the final siren. Well done to our players who kept going in hard till the end.
Best: Straughnie, Rosey, Charlie, Jesse, Frank and Angry.

Congratulations to John Tsetsenekos and Matt McGrath who both play their 100th game with Canterbury this week against Sandown. Let's come away with 2 good wins to mark these milestones.

Thanks to those who attended the Tight and Bright function. The thought of football players dressing up is quite scary, but then to see it first hand - faabulous dahhrling!
Next function is the $1000 reverse draw. $25 per ticket in a chance to win a grand! Gotta be in it to win it.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

The Canterbury Football Club offer their condolences to the family of Dean "Deano" McDonell on his sudden passing last week. He was a familiar face around Canterbury, having worked and supported both the Football Club and the Cricket Club, he had strong ties to the community. He will be sadly missed. Players wore black arm bands; and the flag was at half mast in his honour.

Canterbury President Stands Down
It is with great regret and sadness that Chris Barras is standing down as President at the Canterbury Football Club.

Chris has cited an increased workload as his reasons for making his decision, effective immediately.

“Unfortunately, my work demands have increased this year, which means I have had to find more time to devote to that,” he said.

“As a result, I wouldn’t have been able to devote the time or resources required for the role of Canterbury president.”

Chris, who first came to Canterbury as a junior nearly 30 years ago, and has been part of the committee for nearly a decade, took over as club president in 2004, and has helped guide the club from being near extinction, to becoming a finals contender.

“I wish the club all the best for the rest of the season. I know I leave the club in good shape on and off the field, and will continue to go from strength to strength.”

The Canterbury Committee thanked Chris for his efforts.

Vice president Gary Giles is expected to take over for the rest of the season.

Match reports:
Two awesome wins! The players from both sides are certainly coming together as a team, on and off the field. This shows that we can match it with the best and be a force to be reckoned with. Thanks to Mt Waverley for staying around and having a drink. Cobras, keep up the training regime and lets get 2 more wins against Skye this week.

GO COBRAS!

The cocktail night was a success on the back of two wins. The social rooms had the atmosphere of a night club with the music and lights. The cocktails were colourful and to quote "evil". Who was that elegant "table dancer" at the end of the night??

The social calendar is around the rooms, so check out the Canterbury social scene. Tight and Bright coming up this Saturday at the Geebung.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Pre-season training for season 2008 begins on the 21st of Novemebr 2007!

Please see the Training section for more information.

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Pre-season training for season 2008 is about to begin!

Please see the Training section for more information.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Pre-season training for season 2008 is about to begin!

Please see the Training section for more information.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Canterbury’s season came to a disappointing end with a 76-point loss to Black Rock in the preliminary final. The Cobras were on the back foot from the start by going into the game without their “Killer Bees” of James Baum, Simon Beardall and Andrew Baker, all of whom sustained injuries in the previous week’s loss to Mount Waverley. After holding on in a tight first quarter, the game opened up with Black Rock kicking 3.5 to 0.3 to take a four-goal lead into the main break. Canterbury was hoping for a miracle going into the last term, trailing by five goals, but Black Rock powered home with a nine-goal-to-two final quarter to meet Mount Waverley in this weekend’s grand final.
David Fox was Canterbury’s best with a superb display in the backline after coming off the bench, while his fellow defender Leigh Nelson wasn’t far behind. Other special mentions go to Josh Tate, Shane Jenkins, Scott Manks, Michael Kruger and Brendan Allen.
Captain David Carroll finished with two goals to be the only multiple goal-kicker. Others to score majors were Shane Jenkins, Danny Pearce, Brendan Allen, Anthony Johnstone and Jason Wood.
While the players were disappointed with the result, they should also be proud of the effort to have come so far. This time last year, the club had finished last, was relegated and was looking for a coach. But under the off-field stewardship of President Chris Barras and his committee, and the on-field leadership of coach Danny Pearce, captain David Carroll and a blend of experienced heads and youthful legs, the club finished one game away from a premiership, losing both finals to the eventual grand finalists. But while the club can celebrate its achievements, it is important not to rest on out laurels. We know what is required to take the next step, now it’s up to us to do it.

Nominations for life membership are being taken. Submissions outlining the reasons for nomination must be in writing and addressed to President Chris Barras, 18 Cumberland Court, Forest Hill, 3131 or emailed to bch@brentwood.vic.edu.au and must be in by Tuesday 25 September.
Congratulations to coach Danny Pearce who won his first-ever best and fairest award. Danny finished ahead of his good mate Josh Tate, with Shane Jenkins and David Carroll tied for third. In the reserves award, Larry Coulthard took out his first best and fairest, ahead of Nick Bell and Lachlan Giles.

Presentation night will be at the Geebung Hotel on 13 October. Tickets are $40 for a three course meal. Dress is semi formal. See Carol Pearce or Andrew Lamb for tickets. Pre-payment is essential as spaces are limited.

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Canterbury picked an ordinary time to suffer its heaviest loss for the season, going down to Mt Waverley for the third time this year, this time by 37 points. It was an arm wrestle for the opening term with Mount holding a one-point lead at the first break. But the signs were not good for the Cobras after that with the only thing keeping them in the game being Mount’s poor conversion rate in front of goal. With just eight points separating the teams at the start of the final quarter, Mount Waverly continued to out run Canterbury to slam on 7.2 to 2.3 to go straight through to the Grand Final, while the Cobras take on Black Rock in this Saturday’s Preliminary Final. Anthony Johnstone with three goals and Josh Tate with two were the only multiple goal-kickers for the Cobras, while ruckman Shane Jenkins was Canterbury’s best and showed the effort required to get the job done.

Nominations for life membership are being taken. Submissions outlining the reasons for nomination must be in writing and addressed to 18 Cumberland Crt Forest Hill 3131 or emailed to bch@brentwood.vic.edu.au and must be in by Tuesday 25 September. A number of vacancies will become available for the committee at the end of this season, so if you feel you should put something back into the club, or know someone who wants to contribute, please contact president Chris Barras or secretary Sue Bach.

Presentation night will be at the Geebung Polo Club in early October.

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Canterbury had the weekend off allowing the players to freshen up in the lead up to this weekend’s big game against Mount Waverley. The players had a Saturday morning training session before heading down to Mordialloc to watch the game between Black Rock and Doveton. With a full list to choose from, training will be super impressive this week as about 30 Cobras will be vying for just 21 spots.

Details will be announced soon about plans for AFL grand final day as well as the vote count and presentation night.

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Canterbury has powered into the finals with a 72-point win against a spirited Skye side. The home side led by two goals at the first break but had eight scoring shots to three by that time, to set the trend for the day. Leading by 21 points at half time, the Cobras put on 7.8 to four goals straight in the third quarter, and slammed on another six goals to two in the final stanza to get some real momentum going into the second semi final. Again, nine goal kickers shared the load, with full forward Anthony Johnstone bagging six, forward pocket Andrew Baker and ruckman Shane Jenkins each snagging three, captain David Carroll and the courageous Simon Beardall finishing with two. Even Andrew Mack kicked a rare goal, which came from a hand pass from another goal-kicker John Tsetsenekos, honoring a promise Tsetsenekos made to Mack earlier in the year, to hand one off to the veteran defender if he was in the right spot at the right time. Utility Josh Tate was again best on field, Rick Brown was sensational around the ground, coach Danny Pearce again led from the front in the midfield, and Michael Kruger provided dash in defence.

The reserves finished their season with a 51-point loss to the ladder leader and flag favorite. Again, as has been the story of the season, the lack of a forward who can take a grab and kick a goal really hurt the team. The Cobras played with real spirit in the first half to trail by five points. Even though the home side kept peppering away in the second half and kept pumping the ball into the forward 50, there was nobody there to capitalize. The result was Canterbury kicked just six behinds in the second half, while the visitors powered away with a six-goal final term to blow the final margin out to proportions which did not reflect the nature of the game. James Schulz returned for his first game of the year to be best on ground with his hardness in the midfield. Captain Nick Bell capped off a fine season with another sterling performance as a key defender. Tyson Green, Brendan Lashbrook, Ben Richardson and Charlie Maher were also amongst the best.

Details will be announced soon for this year’s vote-count and presentation night.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

The bye could not have come at a better time for Canterbury, having just sewn up second spot and the all-important double chance, and a week before the last home and away game for the year. The break has allowed the Cobras to re-set and re-focus in the lead up to their first finals campaign since 2003, ahead of this week’s game against Skye.

A very special and big thank you goes to stalwart Andrew Lamb for organizing the Canterbury’s Sportsman’s Night. Nearly 100 people turned up to Sofia’s for the evening, which was hosted by comedian Damian Callinan, and heard the thoughts and anecdotes of David Rhys-Jones, Jarrod Molloy and Andrew Thompson. An auction at the end of the night was a success, though the only item NOT sold was the Collingwood Team of the Century jumper. That shows how much class Canterbury actually has! A very special thanks also goes to Sam and Rocky Raydan at Sofia for putting on a great event at a great venue,with terrific food and first-rate service. Here’s hoping we can hold another function there soon.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Canterbury has sewn up second spot and the vital double chance with a 39-point win against the Doveton Eagles. The home side had the better of the Cobras into the wind in the first quarter to lead by two points, before inaccurate kicking – 1.6 to 3.3 – in the second term saw the visitors lead by seven points at the main break. Canterbury powered away from there to restrict to two goals for the rest of the game while kicking seven of its own.

Again, Canterbury had too much firepower for the opposition with nine goal kickers for the game. Andrew Baker kicked four and James Baum kicked two to be the Cobras only multiple goal-kicker. Again, it was the veterans who led the way with Josh Tate, Shane Jenkins and coach Danny Pearce being amongst the best, while Brendan Allen and Mark Clacy were solid in defence.

The reserves put in a terrific performance despite its 20-point loss. Canterbury had just 17 fit men from early on in the opening quarter but grabbed the lead early, even though the Cobras were kicking into a stiff breeze and were playing away against a top-four side. Trailing by five goals going into the fourth quarter, but coming home with a strong breeze and a wet sail, the Cobras showed real character and took it up to the home side. The Cobras gave the Eagles a few nervous moments late in the game before a late miss to Canterbury, followed by a subsequent goal to Doveton, snuffed out the chance of a historic win. Alistair Rose was again sensational in the ruck to be Canterbury’s best, while Tyson Green, Steve Campbell and Brendan Lashbrook were also good. Rob Chapman finished with two goals to be the only multiple goal-kicker, defender Ben Richardson was moved into the ruck and kicked a rare goal, and veteran gun Andrew Lamb also put in a brave effort up forward.

Miss Canterbury was a sensational night. Congratulations to Corey Eames-Meyer for “winning” this year’s title, though his girlfriend was a little bemused when she was asked what it was like to be going out with the best looking girl at the club. Sam Sahalis was a little stiff to miss out on first place, while Andrew Winn also received a lot of the popular vote. Well done to Andrew Lamb, Leigh Nelson and Nick Bell for running a great event, with a lot of laughs and a few bucks raised. The party moved to The Terminus in Richmond after the Geebung closed for the evening, and from there it moved to Andrew Mack’s house where it continued until sunrise. With the bye this Saturday, Canterbury’s major fundraiser for the year, the Sportsman’s Night, will be held the night before. David Rhys-Jones, Andrew Thompson and Jarrod Molloy were the panelists, with the night hosted by comedian Damian Callinan, held at Sofia Restaurant at Camberwell.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Five goals to veteran ruckman-forward Shane Jenkins helped guide Canterbury to a 53-point win against Sandown in the inaugural Cobra Cup game. Canterbury were never really threatened but never led by more than four goals at any of the breaks, until six-goal-to-two final term blew the margin out. Again, there was too much fire-power for the opposition to handle, with 10 goal-kickers for the game, though it was the midfielders who dominated the votes, with coach Danny Pearce, captain David Carroll and tough nut Eddie Marin leading the way.

Canterbury had to work hard to shake off an undermanned but determined Sandown in the reserves game. Struggling to field a team before the opening bounce, the visitors led at half time, and kept Canterbury goalless in the final term. Having said that, Canterbury was also undermanned, and had no bench in the second half, with Larry Coulthard going to hospital as a precautionary measure with a neck injury, Lachlan Giles kicking four goals despite nearly missing the game with a leg injury, David Horne playing even though he was carrying a debilitating achilles injury, and Chris Burson playing the entire game in the ruck and then in the centre despite season ending ankle and shoulder injuries sustained during the game.

Miss Canterbury returns after a two-year lay-off. It will be at The Geebung Polo Club on August 11. Entry into the competition is still available. The Sportsmans Night is coming up on August 17. Please see Andrew Lamb for details.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

A six-goal haul from livewire forward Andy Baker and best-on-ground performance by Jimmy Baum were amongst the highlights of Canterbury’s 25-point win against the Dandy Demons. The Cobras had 12 scoring shots to four by quarter time to grab a four-goal lead. But that evaporated by half time after a blistering 10-minute burst gave the lead to the home side before Canterbury managed to level scores at the main break. Inaccurate kicking throughout the second half meant that despite a last-quarter rally by the Demons, the game was in control but never blew out like it could have. Typifying the Cobras resolve was young defender Scott Manks, who came under intense physical pressure all day but continued to put his head over the ball and even stripped his opponent of the footy in a desperate tackle, to deny his man as he ran into an open goal. It just goes to show that sometimes you don’t have to open your mouth to have the last laugh. Another special mention goes to Shane Jenkins, who nearly missed the game for personal reasons but played, and played well. Mate, we’re thinking of you and those near to you.

The reserves can be disappointed with the result but proud of their effort in the 52-point loss. After staying with a bigger, more physical side for the first half, the Cobras couldn’t keep it going in the second half, especially in the final quarter when the home side kicked 6.1 to four behinds. Matthew McGrath was a human battering ram from the opening bounce and continued to play through the injury he sustained just minutes into the game to be best on ground. Chris Burson was terrific in the ruck against a bigger and more experienced opponent. Lachlan Giles and Clayton Skate won a lot of ball in the middle, while Dave Fox had clean hands and a touch of class in the backline.

Miss Canterbury returns after a two-year lay-off. It will be at The Geebung Polo Club on August 11. Entry into the competition is still available. The Sportsmans Night is coming up on August 17. Please see Andrew Lanb for details.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Canterbury has woken from its slumber with a convincing 67-point win against South Yarra. A five-goal haul from livewire forward Andrew Baker helped the Cobras arrest their two-game losing streak and lift the Cobras back into second spot, half a game ahead of Black Rock and this week’s opponents, Dandy Demons. A six-goal second term blew the game open, with the home side taking in a 41-point lead at the main break. The Cobras went from strength to strength from there to continue to pull away after half-time. Despite missing key forward Anthony Johnstone and the dangerous Josh Tate going goalless, Canterbury had an extraordinary nine goal kickers for the game including one from Alistair Rose, who capped his senior debut in just his fifth game of football with a fine snap from the forward pocket. Coach Danny Pearce again led from the front to be best on ground, while Shane Jenkins showed great courage to keep going after a heavy knock.

Canterbury lost the good gains it made in the previous two weeks by going down to South Yarra by 52 points. The Cobras strayed from the formula which took it on a two-game winning streak and failed to execute the basics well. The home side was trailing by two goals at half time and was still in the hunt, but only kicked one more goal for the rest of the game, and that was in the final quarter. David Horne showed some real intensity and put in his best game for some time to finish with two goals, to be Canterbury’s only multiple goal-kicker. Clayton Skate, Lachlan Giles and Sean Kelly were also amongst the best.

The Shooters night went off well with a special thanks to Jono Gifford behind the bar (he invented the “Cobra” shooter of red cordial, black Sambucca and yellow Galliano) and Bill Blezard who kept people on the dance floor all night. The Sportsman’s Night is coming up on August 17. Please see Andrew Lamb for details. And a special mention to a long-time supporter and a member of the Canterbury family, Katherine. We’re thinking of you and your family through this trying time and we hope things improve soon.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Canterbury’s form slump continued and it has placed itself in danger of slipping out on the four after its 11-point loss to Cerberus. The Cobras have slipped to third and are only half a game ahead of fifth-place, following successive defeats which have seen the club fall from outright first place. After receiving a wake-up call in the first loss to Mt Waverley, the Cobras seemed to hit the snooze button. In what was a close game throughout, the home side stepped up in the last quarter to win the contested ball at key moments to repel every charge Canterbury made. One good sign was the club had nine goal kickers on the day, with coach Danny Pearce leading with three goals. Scott Manks and Simon Beardall were also amongst the best. The longest road trip in the Southern Football League was made even longer, with the game not the only thing lost. The bus driver also had problems finding his way home, driving past the same road signs three times!

The reserves continued to gain momentum in the second half of the season and are making a run for the finals with its 43-point win on the weekend. For the second successive week, the players had a pre-game get together, this time on the bus trip down, to grab the lead from the opening bounce and power away, despite a committed and hard working opposition never throwing in the towel. A number of Canterbury’s newer players put in their best performances with the club, with the youngest player on the Cobras’ list, James Richards, laying tackles, breaking tackles and finishing with four goals to be best on ground. Alistair Rose was superb in defence, and is pushing for senior selection in just his fifth game of football, after converting from a rugby career, which saw him represent Victoria in under-aged competitions. Wingman Sam McDonnell was another who had a breakthrough game, with his combination of strong hands, precision disposal and courage. Rob Chapman returned from injury for his best game for some time to be a dangerous forward.

The Miss Canterbury competition returns after a lay-off of a couple of years. The Sportsman’s Night is also being organised. Please see Andrew Lamb for details of the social events.

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Canterbury has lost top spot on the ladder after its two-goal loss to Mt Waverley. The visitors got the jump on Canterbury in the opening moments of the game to open up a three-goal lead before the heavens opened up for the rest of the game. Scoring opportunities from then on were hard to come by, and while both teams had as many chances as the other, it was Mt Waverley which took its chances. Josh Tate was the only multiple goal-kicker for the home side with two majors, while defenders Mark Clacy and Chris Mazurek were amongst the best, as was Lachlan Giles in his return to the seniors, and John Tsetsenekos, who kept putting his head over the ball despite a series of knocks.

Canterbury had a breakthrough win and claimed its biggest scalp in the process, defeating second-placed Mt Waverley by six goals. The pre-game bonding breakfast at Mecca Latte worked wonders, as the Cobras put on their first four-quarter performance of the season in what was easily its best game this year. Canterbury increased its margin throughout the game by simple, disciplined football, rotating the bench to keep everyone fresh in heavy conditions, running in numbers and converting scoring opportunities. Chris Irvin was clever up forward to finish with three goals, David Horne kicked two, while Julian Gallin kicked his first goal for the club.

The "Beers Around The World" night went off a treat, especially for John Tsetsenekos, who took the prize pool in the carpet bowls competition which sprung up. The Miss Canterbury competition returns after a lay-off of a couple of years. The Sportsman’s Night is also being organised. Please see Andrew Lamb for details of the social events.

Sofia’s Family Restaurants; The Geebung Polo Club; Bendigo Bank – Canterbury and Surrey Hills; Ausfresh; Urban Oasis; Rival Concrete; Mecca Latte; Dunlop; Crane Chiropractic; BreadStreet Bakery; Dench Meat and Chicken; Ivan’s Pies; Cumberland Consulting;

Canterbury had its best home and away win in years with a gutsy two-point win at Black Rock. The Cobras worked hard for a 21-point lead at the final break but had to withstand a fast-finishing Black Rock, which had the wind and the crowd behind them. It could’ve been a different result for the visitors with a shot at goal by the home side 30 seconds from time going across the face and through for a point. It was the first time in years that Canterbury had won at the home of its traditional rival, as well as being the first time in a long time that the Cobras had won a game by less than a kick. Yet again, coach Danny Pearce led from the front to be Canterbury’s best, but he was supported by 20 others wearing the same jumper, all of whom took their turn when it came, and left the field tired and sore, but with the knowledge of what was required to get the job done. This Saturday sees the Cobras play Mt Waverley at home in what will be the third time in four games that Canterbury has taken on the second-placed team. With only half a game between first and second, the Cobras know they cannot rest on their laurels despite recent team-building results.

It was yet another disappointing result for the reserves with its failure to produce up forward and an extremely disappointing first half resulting in another loss. Trailing at quarter time despite a strong wind and seven scoring shots to three set the tone for the day, and it took a few home truths at half time to get any semblance of form after the main break. The disappointing thing for the players is most of them are not far away from senior selection and could be part of a finals campaign, but are not standing up when the moments call for it. Acting captain Nick Bell was one of the few exceptions, as was David Fox, Shaun Kelly and Lachlan Giles, who also distinguished himself during the senior match by taking one of the marks of the year in the crowd after a shot at goal, much to the delight of all his surrounding reserves teammates, except for the one who acted as the step-ladder!

Beers around the world this Saturday

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Canterbury used its "Get out of jail free" card by squeezing out a draw against Skye. Down by about four goals late in the third term and never really showing the form that has taken the Cobras to top spot, Canterbury followed coach Danny Pearce's three-quarter time address to the letter by working hard, never conceding a contest and believing the game was never out of reach. Late goals to Josh Tate and Simon Beardall put Canterbury in a position to pinch an unlikely win, but it was a rushed point with just 40 seconds remaining that leveled scores. Rick Brown was Canterbury's best, taking over the number one rucking role, with Pearce also leading from the front yet again, along with captain David Carroll and the human battering ram Eddie Marin.

It was the same old story for the reserves with a brief lapse in the third quarter undoing a lot of the hard work against the undefeated Skye. Leading at the first break and trailing by a point at half-time, the home side put on a quick three-goal buffer after half time, before kicking a couple of late goals to defeat the Cobras by 33 points. Lachlan Giles bounced back from being dropped from the seniors to be Canterbury's best, while Nick Ardley again continued to press for senior selection.

The Thursday night "training session" at Sofia Restaurant two nights before our bye weekend went down a treat, with pizza, pasta and gelati so big a Nepalese Sherpa would struggle to climb them. The Cocktail Night at The Geebung Polo Club was also a success. And congratulations to the Canterbury girls who, despite finishing in fifth place and missing out on the finals, got a last-minute call to replace fourth spot, before they eventually lost to their undefeated, first-place rivals in extra time.

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Bye

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Canterbury coach Danny Pearce highlighted the dangers of making good players angry with a best on ground performance against Doveton Eagles. After being labeled a receiver who never won his own ball, Pearce racked up contested possessions and hard-ball gets to lead the Cobras to a 78-point win in the top-of-the-table clash. The home side dominated from the start and had eight goal-kickers, with Andrew Baker snagging four, while Anthony Johnstone and ruckman Shane Jenkins going forward to kick three apiece. Also amongst the best were midfielder David Carroll, and defenders Ben Richardson and Mark Clacy.

Again Canterbury denied itself the chance of a win because of a failure to concentrate for the entire game. The Cobras were six goals down and playing ordinary football up until the early stages of the third quarter before they started to execute the basics well and consistently. A major upset was on the cards late in the final term when the home side got to within four points kicking with the wind, until a couple of late opposition goals blew the margin back out to 18 points. Defender David Fox was best on ground with a four-quarter display of application. concentration and clean possession, while Jono Gifford, Nick Bell and John Tsetsenekos also performed all game.

Canterbury’s Cocktail Night will be held on 23/06/07 (Skye Game). Gentleman are to wear lounge suits. Tickets are $10. See Lamby/Carol/Chris for tickets and further details.

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Canterbury’s bookends in Anthony Johnstone and Andrew Mack led the Cobras to a decisive 41-point win against Sandown away from home. Johnstone returned from a two-week lay-off to kick seven goals while Mack held the dangerous forward Clinton Sheedy to four goals to help the Cobras to 5 and 1 for the season and set up a top-of-the-table clash against Doveton at Canterbury this Saturday. The Cobras set the game up by blasting out of the blocks to kick seven goals to three in the first term, and then pulled away again in the last term with a five-goal-to-three quarter. Josh Tate was also amongst the best with his three goals, while Shane Jenkins and Rick Brown are becoming a potent ruck combination.

It has taken him 25 seasons, more than 300 games and a couple of retirements, but veteran defender Rex Johnson has found a new lease of life as a forward pocket. Johnson kicked three goals and should have had a fourth to be amongst the best in Canterbury’s 15-point loss. The Cobras are a team that battles well when they find themselves behind on the scoreboard, but now must learn to keep applying the pressure when they find themselves in front. Lachlan Giles was amongst the best again, as was Matthew McGrath and Grant Fairley.

For the first time in a long time the Canterbury trivia night was a sell-out with people who tried to get tickets on the afternoon of the event unfortunately told there was no more room. More than 140 attended to raise funds for the club. The bbq the following day at Box Hill’s Bunnings, which was part of Canterbury’s community campaign, was also a hit.

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The rise of the new generation of Canterbury players continued with Michael Kruger’s best-on-ground performance leading the Cobras to an 18-point win against the Dandy Demons. In front of its best home crowd for the season, the Cobras kicked more behinds than a parent in yard full of cheeky kids – 1.9 to quarter time to finish on 9.21 (75) to 8.9 (57) – but was in control for most of the game. With everyone keen to put on a good show for our Ladies Day, Simon Beardall, Andy Baker and Shane Jenkins finished with two goals apiece. Scott Manks returned to the seniors after a best a field performance in the twos the previous week, to also be amongst the best, while Chris Mazurek and Mark Clacy also provided spark.

Congratulations to reserves coach Brendan Allen and his wife Naomi for the arrival of baby number four, young Jack, late last week. The reserves put in a good performance for three quarters but fell away in the last to go down Dandy by six goals. With a point separating teams at the main break and trailing 7.6 to 6.3 at the start of the final term, the visitors six goals to two in the last quarter to run away 13.9 (87) to 8.3 (51). The upside for Canterbury was the accurate kicking and the fact that when it stuck to team rules and targets, it stayed with a traditionally strong Dandy seconds side. Nick Ardley continued to press for senior selection, Lachlan Giles returned from a four-week holiday to show class, David Horne put in his best performance all year in the ruck and Sam Salahas battled well down back.

Canterbury’s Trivia Night is on at The Geebung Polo Club this Saturday. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students/concession. Please see Andrew Lamb or Phil Johnson for further details.

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A best-on-ground performance by Andy Winn and a five-goal effort by Simon Beardall helped guide Canterbury to a 12-point on-the-road win against South Yarra. The Cobras led for most of the game but could never put the hosts away in an evenly contested, if scrappy, game, affected by the windy conditions. Shane Jenkins returned to football after a three-year absence for an impressive debut in Canterbury colours. Others who shined included Josh Tate, Clayton Skate and Jason Wood, while Andrew Buntin made his well-deserved senior debut after nearly a decade at the club.

The reserves did what good teams do and pinched a three-point win despite never really clicking. Trailing at the first two breaks, the Cobras kicked three goals to one in the third term to lead by three points going into the final stanza, and then showed real character to hold on for their first away win for the year. Scott Manks dominated the midfield to be best afield. Nick Bell was moved into the forward line after half-time for the first time in six years to be one of the key factors in the turn-around, in what was a coaching master-stroke. David Horne stepped up in the last quarter for key possessions at key times. James Richards and Nick Ardley also continued to push for senior selection.

Canterbury’s Trivia Night is on at The Geebung Polo Club on June 2. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students/concession. Please see Andrew Lamb or Phil Johnson for further details. Congratulations to Bruce Hill, last week receiving his life membership of the Sth Yarra football club, there probably isn’t anyone in the world of football that puts in as much effort or work than Bruce, so from the Canterbury Football Club congratulations Bruce.

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Canterbury learned the importance of getting off to a strong start in its 17-point win against Cerberus. In front of a host of club legends who attended the Past Players Day, the Cobras kicked six goals in the first quarter to have a 34-point lead at the opening break, before a hard-working Cerberus clawed its way back into the game, getting to within a couple of kicks late in the final term. Accurate kicking was a major difference in the end, with the home side getting up despite having fewer shots at goal. One of the reasons for that was a seven-goal performance by best-on-ground Anthony Johnstone. Others to put in strong performances were Rick Brown, Mark Clacy, Andy Winn and Andrew Mack, who is becoming a major threat as a goal-kicking defender.

Andrew Lamb led an undermanned Canterbury to a 93-point win against an equally undermanned Cerberus. The man they call The Ox had kicked just 1.8 before the game, but finally found the big sticks to snag five majors.He saved the best till last, kicking a freakish goal off the ground while on his back and facing the wrong way. Special mentions go to Nick Ardley, who dominated the middle, and Nick Bell and Rex Johnson, both of whom have made more comebacks than Nelly Melba, but earned their spot in the best.

Canterbury's Trivia Night is coming up on 2nd June at the Geebung, Please Lamby/Mick/Carol to book a table, flyers are up around the club for details. Awards tonight will be at the Geebung after the Sth Yarra game. Ladies day is the following week 26/05/07) with Chicken and champagne for all the ladies, so make sure you invite down Wives/Girlfriends/Mistresses/Sisters and of course Mothers.

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A five-goal haul from from live-wire Andy Baker was not enough to get Canterbury over the line in the away trip to Mt Waverley. The Cobras went down by 11 points in a see-sawing game in which the visitors lost vice-captain Jimmy Baum with a leg injury. Mt Waverley said it had set itself for the game against Canterbury, and both sides took turns to dominate periods throughout the game but failed to put the other away. With scores level half-way through the final term, Canterbury had the chance to get two-goal buffer but missed both attempts, before the home side kicked late goals to seal the result. The players may have been a little flat early following round one win against Black rock, but lifted as the game progressed, while another pleasing aspect was nine goal kickers. Rick Brown showed that becoming a father recently (well done to you and your good lady, Brownie!) was no distraction to be Canterbury's best, while young hard-nut Andy Winn has continued his improvement, with the silent assissin leading the club's one-percenter stats for the game.

The reserves were flat following a strong performance the week before and although the Cobras never really got it together for extended periods, it was never really out of the contest despite the 14-point loss. Stand-in skipper Clayton Skate continued to push for senior selection with another strong performance, David Horne rucked valiantly for most of the game and Larry Coulthard overcome an early knock to be amonst Canterbury's best. Special mentions go to veteran defenders Andy Buntin and Billy Blezard, both of whom scored rare majors.

Honour the past while celebrating the present at Canterbury's Past Players Day at 2003 Premiership reunion.

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Canterbury opened its 2007 campaign with an impressive 64-point win against arch-rival Black Rock at the Canterbury Sports Ground. Leading by just one goal at the first break, the Cobras blew the game open with an eight-goal-to-one second quarter to go in with a 51-point lead at half time. What was particularly pleasing was the way the players remained disciplined and focused on the football, despite the opposition’s physical style, which left the Cobra’s with more black eyes than a Goth’s convention, and two players sent to hospital for minor treatment. Special mentions go to fullback Andrew Mack, who may lose the kick-out duties after seeing one go straight back over his head for a goal, but made up for it later by kicking one of his own, and Ben Richardson, who has worked hard to turn himself from a reserves player last year to vote-winner in the seniors this year. With Bakes firing up forward we even had the opportunity to rest the coach in the forward pocket (or was this just so he could also score a goal?) It was nice to cap off five months of hard work by singing the song for the first time in a while. It was even nicer to see Canterbury atop of the ladder. The team has set a standard and the important thing is to build on it.

It was a tough way to learn a lesson, but so be it. Canterbury dominated all aspects of the game except for the scoreboard, with the failure to take the chances on offer biting the twos on the backside when the opposition kicked three late goals to pinch the win. It was hard to single out individuals in what was an all-round team performance, but Corey was terrific until he had to leave the field with a suspected facial fracture courtesy of his frustrated opponent, Damo dominated centre-half back, and Michael Boettcher played what was arguably probably his best game for the club.

Bring your best Hawaiian shirt to the Geebung Polo Club for tonight’s Hawaiian night.