It was a Saints home game for the first time in a month but not at the usual spiritual home of the Saints at Varley Oval, but instead the unfamiliar surroundings of the Inverell Sporting Complex. Its obvious the old Tigers must have been fit because the ground dimensions were huge in comparison to other grounds around the league and was suited to the Saints running game. Added to this was the fact the Swans could only travel with 17 players, the Saints extended bench was always going to be an advantage when covering the large ground.
The matches between the 2 clubs have traditionally been tough affairs, however the Swans were very undermanned, cruelled by injury and work committments. However, the spirit of the Swans is always something to be wary off, and the Saints still had to steel themselves for a contest. The Saints started the match much differently to the past games, attacking the footy and putting their bodies on the line. This lead to a couple of early goals which dented the confidence of the Swans and a hard running goal to Jono Elphick late in the first opened up a commanding lead that was never relinquished. The final margin of 127 points was flattering to the Saints, who did not have all the free running as the Swans battled back gamely and showed that with so many players out they could still match the Saints at times.
Mick Viney finished with 9 goals and was ably supported by another 9 Saints, the best spread of goalkickers the Saints have had all year. Elphick was outstanding across half back and first gamer Alec Deslandes showed a silky touch on the wing. Stewart Walker was again strong through the middle, as was Gary Hadland. Justin Pay continued his stellar season by being named Players Player.
The Saints now how the week off before heading to Narrabri to face the Eagles.
Last Modified on 23/05/2010 17:07