R9 2023 | Reserves at Old Paradians

The Unicorns made their way down to a particularly windy Garvey Oval in Bundoora to take on fellow finals’ contender Old Paradians. A tight contest all the way throughout the first term in the tough conditions resulted in a five-point lead to the home team. James Cusack popping up for the Unicorns’ first goal, extending his strong form all season up forward.

The second term provided another tight contest with the ball getting stuck down in the pockets as the wind continued to make the game difficult. Former U/19 Joel Hodder, on his return, was fantastic with intercept marking, as was the work of Will Colman, running tirelessly along the wing. Coming into the main break, MHSOB trailed by three points, 2.7-19, to 2.4-16.

Gallen Gilmore handballs to a teammate. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson.

The second half proved to be a story of two halves, as the third quarter belonged to Unicorns, working hard as Dinuk Epa and Abishaan Dushyanthan made brilliant pressure efforts up front, complimented by a spectacular goal by Sam Hodder.

The final quarter started with a four-point Unicorns lead, but unfortunately, they failed to register a point as Old Paradians controlled the contest and defended magnificently, finishing the game 11-point winners.

Final Score: MHSOB: 4.5-29 defeated by Old Paradians: 5.10-40

Goal Kickers: J. Cusack 3, S. Hodder

Best Players: J. Hodder, D. Epa, W. Colman, A. Dushyanthan, J. Cusack, E. Riddle