NELSON Bay Marlins AFL stalwart Adam Blyth has chalked up a significant playing milestone.
The blue and gold’s warrior celebrated his 250th appearance for the club during the Marlins’ 95-80 loss to the Killarney Vale Bombers in opening round action in the 2026 AFL Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Senior Mens Cup competition.
Despite the loss, evergreen Blyth was one of the best players on ground with a powerhouse display that inspired the Nelson Bay team to a handy 20 point lead at the half time break.
The strong-finishing Bombers booted seven girls in the third term and another three in the final quarter to edge out the courageous Marlins line up.
Nelson Bay brought strong energy and pressure early and kicked five goals in the opening quarter for a 32-19 advantage before establishing a 51-31 lead going into the main interval.
But Killarney Vale responded with an early second half blitz – posting 45 points and conceding only seven in a match-turning quarter.
Despite a strong last quarter push from the Marlins, it wasn’t quite enough to get over the line.
On a special day for the Nelson Bay club, three other key players reached important milestones.
Tim Anderson registered his 150th game for the Marlins while Jason Carey and Nikolas Ellis-Brody each racked up 50 matches with wholehearted performances.
Other Nelson Bay players to impress were Zane Grant, Jayden Baldwin-Rymer, Hudson Roche, Wayd Blackburne (four goals) and super boot and team skipper Billy Barton (two goals).
After a second round bye, the Marlins will host the Wyong-Lakes Magpies in a May 2 fixture at Dick Burwell Oval.
By Chris KARAS
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