Match Reports

Round 18 vs South Mornington - Seniors

A great way to finish of the year. Our work off the footy in the second quarter set the game up, and it was a collective effort in this regard.

I will write a season summary report in the next few days and have Listo put on website.

Special thanks to those that helped out during the year and gave their valuable and appreciated time. Marty, Brenton, Kali, Westy, Tony Leonard, Kotsa, Blakey, Frosty, Arch, Kate, LukeyV, Beauy, Oaks, Stevo, Coxy (x2), Jane, Cracker, Bec..... I know I will have missed a few so please make sure you tell me about it!

Huge thanks to our sponsors and I hope you can all see the direction is positive.

We have much to look forward to and build upon for season 2011. Lets see if we can get a core group of at least 30 blokes doing pre-season to really hit the ground running.

First 9 rounds of vote count at the clubrooms on Sunday @ 11am. After that, the masters round robin so we need as many helping out as required. This event will be crucial to the equipment and football department for 2011 so please, brings some running gear and your boots as we need to fill boundary and goal umpires for the day. The more the better as we can rotate. Everyone is required.

Hoody

Goal Kickers: N. Berlowitz 5, E. Charles 4, L. Desmond 3, B. Pearce 2, D. Penny, R. Ball, J. Swaffer, C. Riscalla, E. Doney
Best Players: G. Tiley, S. Harrison, E. Charles, N. Berlowitz, L. Desmond, E. Doney

Round 18 vs South Mornington - Reserves

The game started well with Butch winning the toss and kicking with the wind. We were up and about from the get go which is something that has been lacking all year. We got on the board early but SM came back in the later part of the quarter and gained a slender lead going into the first break.

The second we were going against a 4 goal breeze … it was going to be interesting. We wanted to slow the game and hold up there run and try to play on our terms! This was done very well with Langley leading the way again down back, ably backed up by Axten, Burnett and Laidlaw. SM found scoring difficult. High pressure was being applied across the field with Koopmans, Pinder and Pritchard applying plenty of pressure and grunt through the middle. We played a very good quarter and held them to 1 goal while getting 1 of our own.

The third started well having plenty of the ball forward but the lack of conversion that has haunted us all year came back with a vengeance having. We had 1 extra scoring shot we kicked 1.5 opposed to 4.1 leaving us down by a 20 point at the last change … a tough job at hand.

As has been par for the course this season we have played 1 bad quarter of footy each game unfortunately that trend continued here as we saw a fit side with something to play for against a side that had injured players on the pine, sick players on the field and just couldn’t go any further. In the first half of the quarter we managed to stay with SM without putting any scoreboard pressure on, then they managed to break our spirits and went on to kick right away at the end. The final result flattered them a little bit taking all into account.
Thanks to P.Currie, J.Tambakis for helping out when ill/injured.

Highlight of the day … Koops

Goal Kickers: G. Cavallo 2, J. Irish 2, J. Tambakis
Best Players: C. Langley, N. Burnett, K. Axten, M. Koopmans, B. Annells, M. Pinder

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 17 vs Richmond Central - Seniors

In what was a danger game after the bye, we came out all guns blazing. The first three goals on the board and it looked like everybody was ready to go. Screech was in absolutely everything, then............bang!

We completely stopped and the bye hangover started to kick in. Backs were getting led to the footy, midfielders not accountable and forwards stuck in the one spot. It was like somebody flicked a “do not operate” switch and everybody went into hibernation. Luckily the Snakes missed a few gettable chances, and we were still in the game at quarter time.

Second quarter and we started to get our act together. We played the 25 minutes on even terms, with Koops doing the hard yards in the middle allowing Des, Dan, Corker and Crosso to win the clearances. Tobes was his usual blistering speedy Gonzalez, and Howey was trying to keep the Snakes No.7 (quickest bloke in the VAFA) contained. Shaun was given Listo a great breather in the ruck and Lance was trying to get the ball forward for the rovers in the forward line.

Third and M.S had a ferocious attack on the footy which resulted in a goal. We continued to win most of the contested footy but did not convert our chances. The bigger heavier ground was starting to take effect, and legs were getting weary. Our rotations played a key part in keeping legs fresh, with Huge having a stint in the middle and getting a few touches of the pill. Berlo was leading to the footy and proving a handful for the snakes backs. Knackers completely contained the Snakes Vice Captain in a great defensive performance, and Harro took a few strong grabs across half back. Stanno again proved impenetrable, his game is getting better and better every week. The blanket Tiley again shutting his opponent out of the game. After a slow start, PC took a few strong marks in front and punched / cleared the ball when required. Still only a couple of goals in it but had the feeling we were controlling the game if not for a couple relatively easy misses. 4 goals 7 behinds for the quarter.

In the last, Buckets had a run at half forward with immediate effect. We again controlled the ball but both teams were playing ping pong across half forward / half back. Our backs stood tall and only allowed the Snakes one major whilst we put on 4 to ice the game.

The highlight - Jack kicked his first AFL goal in the last quarter – I don’t know if Jack onfield or Bethany on the sidelines was more excited. “Oh my god, Oh my god – he has kicked his first ever goal!!!!!”

Harro offered his sincere gratitude to all – he got to be the passenger to Ballarat with Marty behind the wheel. If we lost had to drive, meaning no refreshments on the journey.

One game to finish the season off on a high note. South Mornington have beaten us easily in the past few encounters and we need to show we can be a force to be reckoned with.

Lets make sure we have record numbers on the training track and make it a cracker of a week.

Bring your A game.

Goal Kickers: T. Manning 2, E. Charles 2, D. Penny 2, C. Riscalla 2, B. Pearce 2, N. Crossan, S. Howe, N. Berlowitz, B. Marcakis, L. Keillor, J. Merrillees
Best Players: A. Stanley, N. Crossan, D. Penny, G. Tiley, C. Liston, R. Ball

Round 17 vs Richmond Central - Reserves

Old habits seem hard to break, apart from some guys having work / family commitments less than half the side was at the ground at required time. This attitude went into the rooms where we decided to continue with lack of preparation. Some guys just wanted to chat, some just wanted to show a lack of respect and play with the team board again. This poor attitude was then taken to the field and we put on an embarrassing first quarter that saw RC comprehensively smash us in all aspects of the game.

The first part of the second was much the same then things slowly started to click, ‘Mick Penny’ was taking control through the middle and half forward, Odza playing the same role backing him up well, Presti winning in the middle and Manno who desperately needed to make up for his abysmal reading of the side Thursday night was also coming into it.

The third was a very good quarter not only outscoring RC but also outplaying them, Cavallo started kicking goals, Swaff was getting involved Ken & Masaya started waxing and bringing each other into the game along with Howarth keeping their dangerous goal kicker in check.

The final also started well Cassidy giving a Presti a chop out in the ruck Odza, Manno, Penny, Pinder and Pritch running through the middle keeping their work rates high. George was providing a good target and we had the better of RC for the first part of the quarter. Unfortunately we weren’t able to maintain the momentum and they outscored us in junk time to win not only the quarter but the the match convincingly.

Goal Kickers: G. Cavallo 4, M. Penny 3, C. Seely, J. Swaffer
Best Players: M. Penny, A. Odza, M. Prestopino, G. Cavallo, J. Swaffer, T. Manno

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 15 vs North Brunswick - Seniors

A solid senior performance. What is very encouraging was the performance of the 2nd eighteen which shows the club is moving in the right direction.

It is disappointing however that some performances off the field at talent night outshone the onfield performances! Butch never to play a senior game for BHN!!!!! PC you're an animal!

In the late game, it was a tight tussle all day where both teams rarely gave an inch.

Special mention to Lance who played his heart out. Dan once again provided the spark whether on the ball or up forward. Buckets and Listo combined well in the last quarter gave us first use of the ball and put the game out of reach.

The bye gives us a chance to refresh the batteries and prepare for Richmond at combover reserve. Speaking of combovers, many thanks to Pauly Comer for doing the running on Saturday on short notice – much appreciated.

Goal Kickers: D. Penny 6, N. Berlowitz 2, L. Keillor 2, E. Charles 2, L. Desmond 2, C. Riscalla 2, E. Doney
Best Players: L. Keillor, D. Penny, C. Riscalla, G. Tiley, J. Merrillees, L. Desmond

Round 15 vs North Brunswick - Reserves

Again so close yet so far, in the last month we have had either equal scoring shots or more than our opponents which has resulted in only 1 victory and 3 defeats, all by 10 points or less this week was the narrowest of them at 6 points, remarkebly that is how many more scoring shots we had than Brunny.

A great game of footy played in the right spirit and at the highest level I have seen for a long time, well done to all in involved can hold your heads high with the way we went about our task, just remember the sour taste of another defeat during the weekend off.

Rohan Doyle and W.Drew thanks for answering the last minute SOS when several players had to pull out.

Mark Prestopino played a great game, Axten provided plenty of drive from the back 1/2, Langley, Summerfield very strong down back also, Johnno rucked well, Lovejoy presented up the field time and time again, 'Stampy' Burnett added another dimension when swung into on ball rotations where Manno and Odza were getting plenty of clearances, Irish on 1 leg was finding plenty of the ball, Mannerheim solid all day and had a 15 minute patch in the 3rd that was sensational and lifted all his team mates, George who had a significant role to play and spent good portions of each quater on the pine also contributed well bobbing up with a couple of important majors.

The highlight of this weeks game can be summed up in one word, PRESTI.......

Goal Kickers: M. Prestopino 4, J. Irish 3, G. Cavallo 2, T. Manno , G. Robinson
Best Players: M. Prestopino, K. Axten, C. Langley, D. Summerfield, A. Odza, J. Irish

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 14 vs Chadstone - Seniors

Given our poor starts in previous weeks, the focus was firmly on beginning well and maintaining intensity for the first quarter. We had a couple of 1st gamers making their debuts and it was great to watch the men rally around and give them the support and encouragement required.

With Listo winning the toss in his 100th game, and kicking with the aid of a slight breeze, our clearance work and continual drive forward was pleasing to see.

Biff and PC were providing targets across Half forward, with Screech off the wing continually driving the footy inside 50 giving our forwards plenty of opportunities.

Lance with a chase down and eventual goal in the first quarter and Shauny’s first senior major in for BHN the highlights.

Manno getting worried PC could get 4 a good source of amusement on the pine.

From a coaching point of view our structures were being adhered to, and our backs were solid when the ball did make it way down – they didn’t go kick chasing.

The second quarter and Chadstone had a little more ball use with the wind. Again our backs held strong but Chaddy did put 3 majors on the board. Handy 10 goal lead at halftime.

The third quarter and we thought it was a little easy with blokes rushing and not keeping the scoreboard pressure on. With Harro still hurting from the Cats loss the night before, his disappointment turned to glee when named at full forward. Our stoppage work was much improved with Dan leading the way getting multiples clearances and breaking plenty of tackles. Most blokes had the opportunity to run up forward except our key backs in Stanno, Greg, Knackers and Jack. They held the fort and were all very impressive. Manno kicked a lovely bomb from about 50m out (it wasn’t 90m Manno) that went straight through the middle and things were looking ominous for the last 25 minutes.

(Footnote: it was interesting the kudos went to those that kicked the goals, but full credit also to those pushing down in defence when Chadstone moved forward. Crosso was the standout in workrate in this regard)

The three amigos in Scotty, Toby and Huge breaking the lines and using pace. Berlo as always providing the target down forward as he didn’t like his blowout on the wing.........

Last quarter became Koops the crocodile (nickname by Desi as he does the killer roll when on the bottom of the packs) show with his cheersquad begging the coach to get him to the sidelines. Listo snagged one, Eth sold some candy and kicked a couple, and even Buckets got in on the goals scoring feast. Desi had a couple of lovely clearances from Harro when switched into the ruck. Some great chase downs too Desi.

Chadstone had their injuries woes in the last and full credit to them by sticking the game out.

All in all, a solid win and hopefully plenty of confidence gained.

Congrats to Listo on 100 games, Shauny and Jack on their 1st senior games and thanks to the loyal supporters that stick with us through the good and the bad.

North Brunswick next game (home) and we should be looking to redeem on the outing earlier in the year where they beat us convincingly.

Go Demons!

Goal Kickers: M. Koopmans 4, N. Berlowitz 3, S. Harrison 3, L. Keillor 2, E. Doney 2, D. Penny 2, B. Pearce 2,
E. Charles, L. Desmond, T. Manno, C. Liston, S. Johnson, P. Currie, S. Howe, T. Manning
Best Players: L. Desmond, T. Manning, J. Merrillees, S. Johnson, M. Koopmans, G. Tiley

Round 14 vs Chadstone - Reserves

For the first time in ages we hit the field running! ‘Nahas’ Seely got us off to a flying start kicking the opening goal against the wind, then the realisation that our opponents were here to play. Chaddy went about dominating the rest of the quarter; they doubled our scoring shots (luckily being a little wasteful). We went into the first break 15 points down.

In the second we had the wind advantage and went on the attack, Axten, Pinder, Odza getting first use of the ball through ‘itchy’ Scimizzi`s dominance in the ruck. Riscalla was racking up possessions while Mannerheim went onto the dangerous Clement and took him out of the picture. Having the majority of the play we outscored Chaddy with 15 scoring shots to 3, this was not capitalised on with some wasted opportunities and the occasional lack of team work. We hit the long break leading by 17 points.

The third saw a very aggressive Chaddy hit us with all they had clearly dominating the quarter. They were led by there #1 player who set them on fire when Ash had to leave the field for 15 minutes. They scored a further 6 goals to our 1 to see the see-sawing scoreboard again swing to their advantage by 15 points.

In the last it was time to pull something out, the defence led by Glen and ably backed up by Dicko getting plenty of rebound clearances we were on the attack, on ballers Riscalla, Axten, Pinder, Odza and Irvine sending the ball forward, again Mannerheim went to there #1 player and took him out completely, we had plenty of the ball but we wasted the majority of chances kicking several behinds and the game was slipping away. We were getting closer and needed something special. Up steps Affy, who turned back the clock got selfish took the opposition on and kicked a fantastic goal. We needed it to get up and going. They snuck in a quick one to try and break our spirits but that wasn’t going to happen. The ball again went deep forward where the Elgar park specialist Jason Irish bobbed up and kicked the winning goal knowing there was only seconds on the clock we pushed numbers back again another clearance from the centre and Chris ``the wasteful one`` Langley kicked another after the bell to seal an 11 point victory.

The highlight was the grab by Christian ‘Nahas’ Seely, he climbed higher than he has before at Elgar park and clunked a fantastic mark, his shot for goal left a bit to be desired but the mark was an absolute gem.

Well done to the 22 contributors on the day, much deserved victory after being so close in the last month.

Goal Kickers: C. Langley 5, J. Irish 2, K. Axten, S. Withers, M. Pinder, C. Seely, G. Cavallo, A. Odza
Best Players: C. Seely, C. Riscalla, C. Langley, M. Pinder, K. Axten, C. Irvine

Round 13 vs Mt Lilydale - Seniors

Not much to write about in a game that was played under very, very heavy conditions.

It was a yardage game and required commitment to the ball and straight line running.

After the first quarter where Mt Lilydale skipped away, we held our own.

For the loyal supporters that travelled out to watch - thankyou.

Our committment and desire could not be questioned and was a pleasing turnaround from last weeks shocker.

We must now win our remaining 4 games to give ourselves a chance of making finals.

Goal Kickers: N. Berlowitz 3, B. Pearce, T. Manning, L. Desmond
Best Players: N. Berlowitz, T. Manning, L. Desmond, E. Doney, N. Crossan, B. Annells

Round 13 vs Mt Lilydale - Reserves

Arrived at the ground nice and early to see the farm life removed from the so called playing surface, on inspection it was revealed just how bad the condition of said surface was and the task at hand loomed even larger.

Losing the toss and going against the gale the back half worked tirelessly in the first quarter led by Langley and Laidlaw in the air and Axten and Merrillees on the ground. Giving great support were Robinson, Pinder and Riscalla who keept their on-ballers in check, the score line wasn’t bad and we were happy to keep them at 3 majors for the term.

The second saw us attacking the entire quarter, Irish was looming along with Johnson down forward we had all the play in the quarter. We had more scoring shots than our opponentsdid in the first quarter but just couldn’t capitalise on the hard work (scored 8 behinds).

The third saw almost all the play in Lilydale’s forward half this time we held them to 5 points and didn’t allow them to get a clear advantage, again this was due to the great work of Langley, Laidlaw and co down back.

The last was a dour struggle with 34 men in our forward half we kept peppering away
The same as second and couldn’t convert the opportunities we were presented with.

This quarter also unveiled the highlight and lowlight of the match all rolled into one, club legend Peter Woods playing his annual reserves game for the year rose high above an opponent and took arguably the greatest mark of his stellar career only to see umpire Hans Moleman call play on.

Another game we had in our grasp and the same as Eley Park and to a lesser extent Richmond we let it slip right through our fingers.

Keep turning up to training and working hard and the wins will come.

Goal Kickers: S. Johnson
Best Players: C. Riscalla, M. Pinder, G. Robinson, H. Gist, J. Merrillees, J. Irish

Round 12 vs Eley Park - Seniors

An embarrassing display that lacked passion, emotion and intensity.
Unacceptable.

Goal Kickers: L. Keillor 3, N. Crossan, D. Penny, E. Charles
Best Players: P. Currie, N. Crossan, C. Liston, L. Keillor, B. Marcakis, S. Howe

Round 12 vs Eley Park - Reserves

The day started poorly when only 6 players were at the ground at the requested time (3 gave fair warning of late arrival). The day got worse when people decided to stuff around with the selected team board, Presti to his credit admitted his small involvement, and no one else had the courage join him. The day almost had hit rock bottom with 8 minutes to go before game time and only 9 players were ready for warm up.

Then the game began, we saw to many players ignoring team set up, to many players ignoring team plans, as the game wore on the pressure increased and the time was right to stand up and be counted. Alas in this period there were too many players who would not tackle, too many players who would not chase and too many players who would not attack the football. These things all added up to an unacceptable performance and another game there to be won in the last quarter thrown away and lost.

Some highlights of the day included;
Laidlaw, controlling the back half with experience and poise
Koopmans, having a job to do and doing it well all day
Axten, giving his all for the entire match never giving in
Merrillees, getting better every week and beating another opponent
Doney, attacking man and ball all day setting up plenty of drive
Seeley, running the wings all day, getting plenty of touches
Prestopino, the smile on his face finally going forward and kicking a crucial goal.

Goal Kickers: N. Lykopandis 3, M. Prestopino, G. Cavallo, C. Langley, J. Strickett, S. Johnson
Best Players: T. Ellis, M. Prestopino, G. Cavallo, R. Cassidy, J. Strickett, K. Halbert

Round 11 vs Richmond Central - Seniors

The game started off in typical BHN fashion – asleep. The Snakes had 4 on the board and it looked like another tough day at Elgar Park was in store. We finally realised we were there to play footy, and the catch up process began. Dan and Desi started in the back pocket to try and shake the usual hard tags which seemed to work and cause confusion on the Snake bench, with Toby and Irish pushed forward from their usual defensive posts. Huge was creating a nuisance around the half forward line, and when Screech moved back he provided great run and carry. A goal down at the first change.

Second quarter and we held them scoreless and put on 7 ourselves. The pressure we placed on the opposition had them second guessing and rushing delivery. The drive from the backline was superb as PC always in front and repelling. Lance was giving us a great target in the square. Swaffa had a rest up forward and was dangerous, Crosso in and under and Crazy presenting as always. Stanno in his first game looked right at home and was giving his direct opponent nothing. The last line of Knackers, Harro and Keaney steadfast and solid. Howey was giving us a great target across half forward.

Listo was great at CHB with Bretty in the ruck giving us some fine tap work and poise. Captain Dan moved into the middle and giving us drive and direction. Pritch was doing superb job in negating the opposition VC and playmaker, assisted by Biff off the bench.

Manno is fast becoming the everywhere man, playing wherever needed. His ability to switch on in any position is a great asset for the team.

Third quarter and much of the same. Irish got in on the act and we kept the scoreboard about the same pace.

Final quarter – when Crosso bombed one from about 80m out (so he reckons...) he reckons he heard some singing from the sidelines - we iced the game and kept possession.

A solid game in which we played smart footy in patches and kept the ball in dangerous areas.

Again, selection will be difficult this week so I trust all to get to training both nights.

Goal Kickers: J. Irish 4, D. Penny 3, L. Keillor 3, E. Charles 3, N. Crossan 2, J. Swaffer 2, M. Penny, R. Ball
Best Players: E. Charles, R. Ball, A. Stanley, S. Harrison, N. Crossan, C. Liston

Round 11 vs Richmond Central - Reserves

For the first time all season we hit the field switched on and with a purpose. This resulted in a very good first quarter. Leading by example with their hard work were C. Langley and Nick "Frosty" Burnett down back, Hood up forward, Riscalla, Pinder and Robinson through the middle. All looked set for a good day of footy when we hit the first break with a 13 point lead.

Second quarter saw some of the bad old habits re-emerging with some loose and unaccountable play allowing RC to slam on 5 majors to our 1 seeing us hitting the main break 15 points down.

The third was a very good tussle with neither side being able to get a clear advantage. Nuske was starting to look very dangerous and could have been the difference until we had C. Langley take care of him when he went forward then Axten when he went onto the ball. Pearce started coming into his own with nice clearing work off half back, Halbert going forward gave us another dimension to work with, Ellis who had the job of rucking all day in a very good performance was giving Odza and Seeley some advantage to clear the ball from stoppages.

The final quarter again was a very good contest I believe we had enough of the ball forward just couldn’t convert, when we hit 10 minutes to go and still 3 goals down decisions were made to make some moves to try and win the game which if we didn’t capitalize on the margin may of blown out, we threw the 2 Langley boys forward, Pearce went onto the ball, Robbo went back and we went on the attack. We were getting enough of the ball but couldn’t convert putting on 2.4 while RC managed 4.4 (majority of their score coming in the final minutes).

In summary 3 good quarters was not, and can not be expected to be enough to win a game against a good opposition. Some costly turnovers added with some very loose and unacceptable manning up of opponents saw us loose the game.

Goal Kickers: M. Hood 4, T. Ellis, T. Langley, K. Halbert, C. Seely, C. Langley
Best Players: C. Langley, K. Axten, C. Riscalla, N. Burnett, T. Ellis, M. Hood

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 10 vs Manningham - Seniors

Prior Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance

12:30pm and we had 12 players at Koonung Reserve ... the writing was already on the wall.

Our first quarter was terrible. Luckily Manningham didn’t kick straight or we could have been up against it all day. From the opening bounce where Screech was picked off the line (note to all - this should never ever happen) Manningham had the upper hand.

After the quarter time huddle, we realised we had come to play footy and started to work. We won more of the ball and look dangerous. 10 points behind at 3 quarter time and kicking to the scoring end.

With Listo and Berlo concussed, Des crook, Howey and Junior cramping, Knackers knee injury, Toby felled with a opposition elbow late and 2m away from an umpire, and we ran out of foot soldiers. If we had come to play form the outset the result may have been much different.

Harro was great down back. Howey gave plenty of drive on the wings and Toby was his lightning best.

Memo to all the selected senior team this week:

Turn up at 11:30am to support your fellow team mates otherwise be prepared to play the early game in the following weeks.

Goal Kickers: D. Penny 2, J. Swaffer 2, S. Howe 2, E. Charles, N. Berlowitz, B. Pearce, M. Keaney
Best Players: S. Harrison, E. Charles, T. Manning, N. Benbow, B. Marcakis, J. Swaffer

Round 10 vs Manningham - Reserves

Goal Kickers: L. Keillor 2, M. Penny, G. Tiley, C. Seely, C. Riscalla
Best Players: A. Pritchard, J. Howarth, N. Lykopandis, C. Riscalla, M. Penny, G. Robinson

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 9 vs Chadstone - Seniors

With the weather threatening, we took to the field with early concerns about the mental attitude of players. Something was not right and call it complacency or not switched on, the first 10 minutes was all Chadstone. The backline did a great job of holding the tide and pushed Chadstone wide when possible. We kicked a few late goals in the quarter and momentum was starting to change.

2nd quarter was much of the same, the weather playing a large part in keeping the scores relatively close. ScottyJunior were picking up plenty of kicks on the wings, and as soon as we started to look outside the line the game started to open up. Berls was providing contest after contest and taking a few great grabs as well. SwaffaListo was dominating the ruck contests with Nick and Bretty more than able backups.

After the long break, coach asked for the first 3 contests to be won, and when Listo tapped straight to Dan at the opening bounce at full speed, we then started to dominate the game. We held our feet and seemed to get the ball out, with yardage gained by being strong over the ball. Our small brigade of Nuggets, Pritch, Huge, Dan and Crosso were under every pack and driving the footy forward.

Crazy doing exactly what was required and what was asked of him.

With the rain and the dark skies, Jirish couldn’t see and Dan and Desi were rested the last quarter. Harro was pushed into the ruck and with Langers and PC switched forward, we continued our momentum with a high percentage of ball won. Chadstone never gave up and pushed numbers back to help counter our forward thrusts, but that left them with little moving forward. When they did go forward, Rhys, Bretty, Screech, Crazy and Toby

In all, a very solid game in horrible weather. A weeks rest and then Manningham who are sitting roughly where we are.

Special thanks to the following people who make every week possible;

Brenton – boundary for the early game. Well done mate.
Buckets – ran the boundary for the senior 18 – good fitness work Buckman.
Tiny Pinder – ran the water all day. Soaked to the bone. Probably has hypothermia.
Kotsa – goal umpire in the pouring rain – great stuff Prez.
Marty - even though under cover, timekeeping must have been cold!
Tony Leonard – making sure everything was organised as usual.
Trainers – Kate’s multiple expletives – Akkers continued positive voice!
Oaks – not much of oaks and he looked 20kgs wringing wet.

Cheers,
Hoody

p.s OK PC, well done on the 2 goals..............

Goal Kickers: L. Desmond 4, N. Berlowitz 3, P. Currie 2, D. Penny 2, E. Charles 2, J. Swaffer
Best Players: S. Howe, R. Ball, M. Keaney, N. Berlowitz, N. Crossan, P. Currie

and using his strength and clearing the footy. mopped up and we went on the attack again. Well done guys for holding tight. Round 9 vs Chadstone - Reserves

A very poor attitude in the rooms and throughout warm ups were not a good sign for the match ahead and that was quite evident in the first quarter with a pretty ordinary effort across the entire field and quite strongly discussed (read massive dummy spit) at the first break.

In the second winners started to appear on each line, Manno having a huge influence through the middle being well served by Johnno and Coon in the ruck and backed up by Robbo, Koops and Dicko running through the middle, Stano was a welcome return dominating his wing along with Lyka on his wing, waxing with his little mate Richie. As the rain came down and conditions worsened it was pleasing to see no one giving up, no one going in to their shells and just stuck to the task at hand.

The second half was played in ordinary conditions where determination and commitment were the order of the day, pleasing to see again no one backed down and more players got on top of their opponents, Tiley was having an influence, Odza was starting to feel good in his legs and run amok all over the field, Jack was tackling and harassing at his best. Maybe the highlight for myself was seeing guys looking for George who has slowly been finding form over previous weeks and it all came together taking strong marks and kicking goals again.
It was fantastic to see the look of joy on the faces of guys like, Paul, Butch, Presti, Dicko, G, Robbo and the Rev, who have battled manfully in previous weeks with zero reward to get the long overdue victory they so deserved.

A great 3 quarter effort ended in a good well deserved victory, can’t wait for a 4 quarter effort against Manningham and hearing the song sung with the same gusto and pride.

Goal Kickers: G. Cavallo 4, N. Burnett 2, T. Manno 2, A. Stanley , N. Lykopandis , R. Rodrigues
Best Players: T. Manno, G. Cavallo, N. Burnett, A. Stanley, A. Odza, J. Merrillees

It is great when 4 quarters of solid committed football is played.

Forward line was open and the numerous opportunities that presented themselves was because we stuck to our structure. JIrish, Crazy, Turbo and Bretty all chipped in with majors. Desi was providing massive headaches for Swinny’s defence as they couldn’t find a suitable match up for him. Special mention to Ethan – although he didn’t get many touches, he was often battling the loose man in defence and his own opponent. This allowed Dan, Des and the rest of the forward line to go to work. Great work Eth.

Turbo – front and centre and goal. Yes!!!!!!!

Desi – higher than Joe Cocker – hope you got it on video Biff as The Footy Show prize depends on you now!

Backline was working a treat – PC held his opponent goalless and was all over him like a cheap suit, Knackers and Tobes run & carry was fantastic. Langers was also making his presence felt with some telling grabs and silky disposal in his 100th game. Harro, after giving away a couple of 25’s settled down and his run from FB and then deliver to HF was great. Kaine kept his opponent out of the game and then was switched into attack with immediate results. Pinpoint pass to Desi.

Midfielders – Cam and Nick did a great job on Swinburnes massive ruckman, and his influence on the game was minimal – great job guys.

Neal, Pritch, Tiny under every pack, Buckets and Swaffa using their strength to clear the ball.

Junior and Scotty on the wings pivotal in providing the drive, run and delivery.

Finally, special mention to the captain Dan. To kick 8 and play ½ the game in the middle was a superb performance. This begs the question - could this be the first 4 voter ever??

And is the performance a reflection that we had 36 blokes ready to go by 6.30pm on Thursday night training??????????????????????

Goal Kickers: D. Penny 8, L. Desmond 8, B. Annells 2, J. Tambakis 2, C. Irvine, S. Howe, J. Irish
Best Players: D. Penny, L. Desmond, S. Harrison, M. Keaney, J. Swaffer, C. Liston

Round 8 vs Swinburne Uni - Reserves

I now believe time for sugar coating some of these performances is well and truly over!

Too many players kick chasing, too many players refusing to be accountable for their direct opponents, too many players being too lazy to get into positions for team set ups, too many players not prepared to chase opposition, too many players not prepared whether physically or mentally to make second efforts. Adding all these negatives together equals the disgraceful performances we’ve had pretty much since round 4.

Some highlights and positives from the day:
- Berlowitz, team mates saw his efforts again, any senior players (who always want 2nd eighteen to stick around and watch them but don’t make the effort to return the favour) would have been very impressed with his desire, willingness and fantastic attitude.
- Manno trying his hardest all day.
- Johnno and Schimizzi winning more ruck taps then losing
- Jack, after last week’s injury giving his absolute everything, a lot of people should have a good hard look at this kid and his willingness to learn and succeed.

As discussed by the team captains on Saturday any player not at training twice during the week (regular exceptions not included) will NOT be considered for selection next week.

Also any player who sulks at their positioning or threatens a team mate will be facing discipline!

Goal Kickers: N. Berlowitz 3, T. Manno, S. Withers, T. Ellis, S. Schimizzi, L. Dias, G. Cavallo, C. Seely
Best Players: N. Berlowitz, J. Strickett, C. Seely, S. Johnson, N. Burnett, T. Ellis

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Round 7 vs North Brunswick - Seniors

We strarted strongly with a resolve not to get beaten on the loose ball.

Our endeavor and attack was greatly improved on previous weeks, however we couldn't put the score on the board. Our forward entries, in kicking down the line to the spot played into Nrth Brunswicks hands.

Losing Davros early (hammy x 2) forced a restructure and Greg into CHB.

With Nuggets, Tiny and Pritch doing a job, we were winning enough of the pill, but our disposal was poor and errant. Huge was playing a great game and getting to the fall of the ball, whilst Rhys was strong down back. Harro was doing everything he could to keep their goalkicker quiet. Turbo and Toby were holding their wings well and providing some good inside 50 chances.

Again, 10 minutes in the 2nd quarter let Brunswick put 5 goals on the board with minimal resistance. This is where we lost control of the game.

Langers into attack in the 2nd half provided a bigger option and he snagged a couple. Huge continued to gutrun and his efforts were fantastic. He was supported by Howey and he also put a couple of majors on the board.

Again, we kicked enough goals to win the game, yet we cannot find a way to slow or stop the opposition forward momentums.

Positives, we played the game right out and provided the opposition with a few headaches. We should also get a few back from injury and illness which will also help strenghten the 2nd eighteen.

We hope the Nrth Brunwick player that was badly injured in an accidental head clash makes a speedy recovery.

Goal Kickers: S. Howe 3, J. Irish 3, C. Langley 2, J. Tambakis, T. Manning, D. Penny, E. Charles
Best Players: E. Charles, S. Howe, T. Manning, B. Pearce, M. Keaney, S. Harrison

Round 7 vs North Brunswick - Reserves

The day started full of promise getting the first score on the board and all the guys were looking switched on from the outset, early winners were popping up everywhere and intensity was good, BUT again we switched off and let the opposition get their tales up and kick the next 6 goals of the quarter.

The second started as the first ended with N.B getting the jump and outplaying us for the first 15 minutes then like a switch went on every player raised their attitude, intensity and desire and finished the quarter off very well with some good passages of teamwork and willingness to help out each other.

The third also started as the 2nd finished and it was a delight to see some hard work really paying off.

In the final the wheels again fell off and we hardly raised a yelp which unfortunately was the undoing of some pretty reasonable play all day, as said plenty of times 15 minutes of very good footy will not get us very far, those patches need to be put together for longer more sustained periods to be successful

Highlights of the day:
N.Berlowitz, 4 quarter display of dominance over his opponents
T.Manno, a very good game and really getting back in form after injury.
R.Rodrigues, finding plenty of the ball.
Justin Pinsett, giving plenty in his debut for the club,
J.Merrillees, (get well soon mate) really giving a lift when put in the middle
P.Domaingue, still suffering from a sore butt but more than willing to help his mates.
G.Robinson, a pretty good game finding plenty of team mates with the ball, even finally kicking on his left which almost makes up for last quarter indiscretion.
And a big thanks to Liam 'SOS' Purdy for answering the call and showing he has lost no natural ability.

Goal Kickers: R. Rodrigues, N. Lykopandis, N. Berlowitz, P. Domaingue
Best Players: N. Berlowitz, J. Merrillees, J. Pinsent, G. Robinson, S. Johnson, R. Rodrigues

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~~Web design: Mustard Media & groupsthatclick~~