What a magnificent effort by our lads at Mordialloc on Sunday. To come from fourth, in the first year in the top division and take the ultimate prize, says it all about the character of this group.
With some enormous experience in the team we always gave ourselves a chance, but it was 16 year old Jack Sketcher who lit the match. A blistering first quarter into a very stiff breeze saw the good guys go to the first break with a three goal lead, and next use of the breeze.
It was to prove a match winning quarter, as the Saints never headed us, despite having their moments in the third term with the wind.
When the coach goaled from a downfield free, completing a four goal to one last quarter, it was time for the champagne to flow.
In a great team effort, it was difficult to single out the best, but the efforts of Jack Sketcher ( Denis Malcolm Medal Winner), John Charles, Luke Swan, Tate McKee, Matt Pay, Rob Burns and Ryan Forsyth were superb.
In paying tribute to his troops, Paul Riley made special mention of the great club men who unfortunately missed out on a game, but were nonetheless instrumental in the team’s ultimate success.
Perhaps the greatest accolades should be reserved for the coach himself, Paul Riley. Coaching the reserves can be a thankless and frustrating task as every week you lose your best players, struggle for numbers, and battle the curse of injuries. This man does the job with style, with a smile and with great passion. As a leader of men he is without peer, and we are fortunate to have him.
Check out the photo gallery for all the action
Last Modified on 22/09/2008 12:30