It was the rebound we had to have and it came in emphatic fashion! As Lappas said, we were going into the trenches and we had to play like there was no tomorrow. And that is exactly what the boys did - having confidence in themselves and each other, having a belief that they were going to taste victory. Conditions, except for slightly tricky breeze, were almost ideal as the magenta and black (more black than magenta except for senior Lappas' 1995 Premiership scarf) throng made crossed the Yarra. It was a crunch game.
We got off to a great start, kicking the first three goals of the game within the first few minutes. The locals steadied however and got themselves back to within a goal. The young Turks were all playing well - Critta, Whitey, Lazy were all getting a piece of the action. The forward line looked to have some structure with Al Johnstone and Lille looking like seasoned veterans at full forward and CHF respectively. Hammer was continuing his rich vein of form across half back.
So the second quarter began with us holding a five point advantage, but the boys had shown enough to suggest it was going to be ripper contest. The second quarter was probably played at a slower tempo with the game being played between the two half back lines. Spencer Roberts and Morro were starting to get more of the football but we were able to gradually break the shackles. The home side only scored one goal for the quarter against the Bloods miserly defence. Corey Millard and Combi looked like they had been playing together for years and after kicking three goals ourselves we went into the main break with a 17 point advantage - handy but would it be enough.
The third quarter was probably one of our best for the year. The intensity remained, as did the run and belief. Importantly we kicked the first goal for the quarter which has been a rarity this year. But it obviously meant an extension of the lead and the locals were beginning to seriously worry. For the middle 15 minutes we seemed to really dominate. Critta, with his explosive leg speed, took them on from the middle of the ground and finished it off a tremendous goal that bought the throng and players alive. Mase and Sec were doing their jobs in the ruck, while Browny was getting amongst the goals again. We were getting the ball out of the middle or at least not conceding any easy breaks. The hierarchy appeared to have got the match ups correct.Chis was bobbing up everywhere and was back to his pesty best. Again we had won the quarter (six goals to three) to extend the lead and really be in a commanding position at orange time.
It was important to kick the first goal of the quarter and that is exactly what Al Johnstone did. He was winning the battle of the "nigglers" and was a real focal point up forward. Even the umpiring was going our way with Sec being the recipient of "I'll show you a D Grade decision" free kick after a St Bernard's commentary. Critta's early contender for goal of the day was soon matched by Browny's steal, run and goal to seal the game. St Bernards kicked two unanswered goals in the middle stages of the quarter to suggest there was a bit more of a scrap to be had. But the Bloods were to prevail as once again we won the quarter.
We had ten goalkickers in a total of 17 demonstrating how even the side was on the day. The result showed what the boys are capable of when they back themselves. Endeavour has never been in question but it was great to see the open displays of belief.
ST BERNARDS
|
3
|
2
|
4
|
6
|
7
|
9
|
10
|
11
|
71
|
OLD HAILEYBURY
|
4
|
1
|
7
|
5
|
13
|
10
|
17
|
13
|
115
|
OLD HAILEYBURY
Goal Kickers: A. Brown 4, T. Chisholm 2, A. Johnston 2, N. Criticos 2, B. Voss 2, L. Donnelly , B. White , M. Lillie , S. Roberts , C. Morrison
Best Players: S. Roberts, H. McLauchlan, A. Brown, N. Criticos, J. Pitcher, L. Donnelly
So we are now back in third position on percentage, sharing nine wins with three other sides. Next weekend's game against old foes Rovers is another important battle that needs to be won. Finals football becko0ns as long as we maintain the rage.
OFF THE PADDOCK
Upcoming events listed below and we look forward to your support.
LUNCHEON - 7th AUGUST
On the 7th of August we shall be reuniting the original first team from 1961 along with the 1990 and 1995 Premiership sides. This promises to be a great session of Bloods memories so let me know if you are coming along or know of old team mates that would like to attend.
Past student and player of the club The Honourable Lex Lasry QC will be our very special guest speaker.
Cost is $25 with festivities commencing at 12noon.
KEN PHILLIPS DAY - 8th AUGUST
The annual OHA Ken Phillips day will take place on the 8th of August. This is the day where a number of OHA Clubs take on the respective school sides. Of course we shall be playing representatives of the First XVIII. The game commences at 2pm and will take place on the Main Oval.
The BLOODBATH BALL takes place on the 21st of August so put in your diary. It will be held at the South Oakleigh Club and is bound to be a fantastic evening. Details are being finalised as i write.
Look forward to seeing you on Saturday.
Last Modified on 13/01/2011 23:02