Round 5 of Pennant saw the Colts playing the highly talented Commonwealth Team on their home course. Commonwealth draw their players in the main from the best players in regional Victoria.

With the promotion of Colts Captain, Riley Stevens to the Men’s team and the late withdrawal of Jackson Green, The Colts Team introduced 13 year old junior, Harrison (Harry) Crawford for his debut match, a very proud moment for everyone concerned especially his father Matthew, who was their every step of the way.

The Commonwealth team consisted of a playing group all off of near scratch handicap, so we were under no illusion as to the monumental task ahead, but the experience our young team would gain, will stand them in good stead in the years to come.

No.5 – ANTON KOVACEVIC as it turned out played Commonwealth’s best credentialed player, Noah Best and to add to the intimidation, Noah drove the green on the opening Par 4 hole. Despite losing the first hole, Anton’s ‘never say die’ attitude, saw him wrestle the lead off his opponent to take a one up lead at the turn. On the back nine Noah found his mojo eventually overpowering Anton to win the opening match 4 & 2. (Caddy – Rob Krall) LOSS 4 & 2.

No.4 – COREY WAKEMAN – reports in his own summation – A tough day today, my opponent made me work and shut down any momentum I was gaining after being down early; I felt like a comeback was coming on the second 9 after being 5 down, but he made sure that didn’t happen! The good news is that there is plenty for me to work on and keep me busy over the Easter break to come back strong next match. (Caddy – Mark Wakeman) LOSS 7 & 5

No.3 – NICK ROSSATO – Nick drew another tough opponent in Cody Cuthbert. Nick played some great shots early to stay in the match, to be 2 down at the turn. However his opponent got better as the round went on, defeating Nick 5 & 4 (Caddy – Rob Draper) LOSS 5 & 4

No.2 – HARRY CRAWFORD – Highlight of the day was undoubtedly was Harry’s debut in the Colts.

As it turned out, he was up against Hamish Huffadine, Captain of the Commonwealth Team. In his own words – I was very nervous at the start, but managed to halve the first. It was difficult to compete with such a long hitter on the Par 5, and longish Par 4 holes, but I managed to win both Par 3 holes on the front 9, to turn 3 down. I lost the Par 5 tenth, but won the next when I chipped in from 45 metres. I lost the next 3 long holes to go down 6 & 4. LOSS 6 & 4
(Caddy – Matthew Harrison)

Side Note: Before the match I informed Commonwealth’s starter, Max Gale that it was Harry’s first match in Colts. At the end on the match, Max made a short speech about Harry’s performance, congratulating him, a fine sporting gesture. In addition, I have watched parts of the match, Harry’s opponent, Hamish, was fantastic. He was a true gentleman and a credit to the game we all love.

No.1 – MATTHEW REES – After a disappointing opening hole, Matt stayed in the match trailing 2 down at the turn, however he quickly capitulated going down 7 & 5. LOSS 7 & 5
(Caddy – David Bedwell)

The Colts go into the Easter break in 6th position on the ladder. Round 6 is at HOME against Royal Melbourne, so the players would like to see all the Yarra Yarra club members out in force to cheer on the future of the club.

Finally, I would like to thank Robert Draper, for his tireless work & commitment with Pennant this season. He has been an outstanding contributor and terrific clubman.

Report by,

Milton Hammon

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