The 18s got off to a slow start only scoring seven points in the first two terms to trail by 37 at the main break, but rallied in the third to outscore Bathurst four goals to one to get within 16 points at the last break only to slip away again and go down 70-41.

“In the past few games it has been reported that the scores hadn’t reflected performance, but I have to say the boys got their just desserts on Saturday,” coach Geoff Harmer said.

“That sort of performance with the talent on the roster is a little embarrassing.”

The Giants’ side has a nucleus that has been together for five years, if not more, and it shows. According to Harmer they are the ones to beat for the cup this season.

The Saints have always had some regular faces in the squad, but every year has been hard to form consistent partnerships among the players and something that has to be worked on.

The new players this year have been standouts and if they can make a decision to stick together the next two to three years can be promising in this age group with the likes of utility players Branden Sanderson, Brodie Harmer-Clark and Brody Carberry all playing multiple positions and playing them well.

The side welcomed back Jack Barnse at fullback and he will definitely strengthen the team.

The CTR Trophies best on ground went to another first year player in Kai O’Rourke who showed plenty of pace on the wing, and although playing through stomach cramps, put in a standout effort.

QT - Young 1-1-7, Bathurst 4-1-25.

HT - Young 1-1-7, Bathurst 7-2-44.

QT - Young 5-4-34, Bathurst 8-2-50.

FT - Young 6-5-41, Bathurst 11-4-70.

Goalkickers - Hamish Gledhill 4, Brodie Harmer-Clark and Holland Taylor-Garbett one goal each.

The First Grade squad then took to the field and put in by far their best performance of the year to date.

They put in a solid four quarter effort to dismantle the Giants by 48 points and register their first win, moving themselves from off the bottom of the ladder.

From fullback to full forward the side played as a unit, using quick and accurate switch plays, direct corridor and smart stoppage play to feed to forward line close to goal.

Aaron Murfitt had a great game up forward, as did Ron Roe Senior who was slippery all day, bagging four majors.

New player Luke Mayhew improves each week and is a competent addition to either the forward or back pocket.

In the centre Drew Morris directed traffic well and captain Cameron Hobbs put in his usual tough performance.

Rowen Hosken was best on ground and with two returning players in Zac Callaghan and Chris Carrie putting in solid efforts, the signs are looking good for improvement over the next couple of months.

Up forward Kailupp Taylor-Alchin had his best game to date and was the recipient of the Stewarts Jeweller’s players player award.

QT - Young 5-5-35, Bathurst 3-2-20.

HT - Young 8-8-56, Bathurst 6-4-40.

QT - Young 12-14-86, Bathurst 8-6-54.

FT - Young 17-21-123, Bathurst 11-9-75.

Goalkickers - Ron Roe Senior four, Rowan Hosken, A Murfitt and D Murfitt bagged two each, and one goal each to Tyrone Thompson, Luke Mayhew, C Hobbs, J Loader, C Carrie, B Blythe and Ron Roe Junior.

There is no game this week as it is a general bye to accommodate the rep games which the club is proud to announce it has two players representing in.

Fullback Jarrod Pope and vice captain Cameron ‘Sid’ Hobbs have been selected to represent the Central West AFL against the Northern Riverina AFL in Dubbo tomorrow.

“Well done to both lads, I’m sure you’ll represent our club well,” Harmer said.