R17 2023 | Reserves vs Old Paradians
MHSOB welcomed Old Paradians to the Woodfull-Miller Oval with a win ensuring their finals aspirations remained firmly in their hands. A loss, and the Unicorns could be reliant on other results in the forthcoming final round of the regular season, against a fellow top-four side Brunswick.
Old Paradians were no easy beats, having battled hard all season and won the previous encounter earlier in the season at Garvey Oval. The first quarter was hotly contested, with both teams enjoying spells on top. Midfielder Alistair Rogers started off strongly, bringing his trademark intensity and grunt, and small forward Chris Tetaz showed his class with a lovely goal. Both forward groups got to work, and a lone goal separated the two sides at the first break, MHSOB’s 4.5-29 edging out Old Parade’s 3.5-23.
The second quarter welcomed key forward James Xavier into the game, and his ability shone through, kicking the first of four goals for the match, bridging the gap at the top of the division’s goalkicking competition. The absolute highlight, however, was an impossible goal by Dinuk ‘Juice’ Epa, from the tightest of angles on the boundary at the Unicorns Club end, and a testament to the continuing effort and desire he has shown throughout the season. At half time, the Unicorns extended their margin to 17 points, 8.6-54 to 5.7-37.
Dinuk Epa celebrates after kicking a miraculous goal. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson.
The third term was signal of intent from the home side, as they piled on the goals. Winger Evan Riddle was instrumental, perpetual motion down the wing, and small Dion Owens worked tirelessly to support his teammates in the forward 50. Coming into the final term, MHSOB held a 40-point buffer.
Old Paradians gave it their all in the last term, determined to fight and succeeded in completely shutting down the offensive output of the Unicorns. The defence stood tall, with quality efforts from Abishaan Dushyanthan and Luke Franze, and the Unicorns held on, securing a 23-point win and a vital four points going into their final round. With finishing positions anywhere from second to fifth still open, anything is possible.
Special note must be given to key defender and club stalwart Shannon Keough, who unfortunately suffered a season-ending achilles injury. He will be missed.
Final Score: MHSOB: 13.7-85 defeated Old Paradians: 8.14-62
Goal Kickers: J. Cusack 4, S. Hodder 2, D. Epa 2, C. Tetaz 2, E. Riddle, D. Owens, B. Gunn
Best Players: D. Epa, A. Rogers, C. Toro, A. Dushyanthan, E. Riddle, D. Owens