Peter Hughes, coach of Sturt I against Hawthorn III on Thursday 29 January said that, with 37 degrees forecast, players appreciated the early start as conditions were initially quite comfortable.
"However, we were playing Hawthorn, who were our nemesis in our first season, two years ago. They are more experienced and strategic."
The green was playing well but "we dropped two ‘fives’ in the first half and at the half way mark scores were level."
Impressively, "all Sturt Thursday sides are showing 'second half determination' and Thursday was no exception. Karen Esdale’s rink, down 5 at the half way mark, rallied to win 8 of the last 10 ends.
"Leader Vicki Kavanagh was often 'on or beyond' only to see her shots disturbed. Bronwyn Perry, playing as the second, had regular impact and helped keep us in the game.
"Jackie Hammond’s rink was playing against the opposition's leading skip and held on for a valuable 16-16 result.
"Wendy Rutten’s rink was down 6-11 early. Wendy rallied her troops with her clear expectations and positive feedback to outplay her opposition, winning 8 of the last 11 ends.
"Sharon Gray, Terry Morgan and Joanne Kirby almost took it in turns to get the shot."
Conditions became muggy as the day went on, "but we were not deterred."
Peter ended with the comment that, with just four minor round games to go, Sturt 1, currently sitting on top of the ladder in Division 2 East, is "working hard to secure a good finals spot."