R8 2024 | Reserves vs Bulleen Templestowe

Ruckman Fraser McGlashan kicks his first career goal. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson.

MHSOBFC returned to the Woodfull-Miller Oval with a performance for the ages, dismantling Bulleen Templestowe in a staggering 301-point victory. From the first bounce, it was clear that MHSOBFC meant business; the Bullants were quickly put on the back foot as the Unicorns' forwards found their range early and often.

In the first quarter, the Unicorns set the tone kicking 10.8-68. Led by Alex 'Mourtilicious' Mourtikas, the midfield ensured seamless transitions between defence and attack, creating numerous scoring opportunities. The returning Billy Mullin brought his trademark physicality, ensuring the Bullants' defence had no room to manoeuvre. Zac Comley-Burns showcased clean hands and feet, finishing the game with five goals. Aaron Turner, on his debut, slotted three goals while gaining tremendous experience in the forward line.

As the game progressed into the second quarter, MHSOBFC continued their onslaught with 11 goals and 3 behinds, bringing their halftime total to 77 points. Bryce Dowling in defence stopped any potential Bulleen threat, ensuring their score sheet remained empty. Dinuk 'Juice' Epa's stamina was on full display, contributing significantly to the scoreboard and maintaining high energy levels throughout the game.

Coach Matt Brancatisano's halftime address inspired the team to continue their relentless assault, ensuring the second half was no different from the first. After halftime, the Unicorns maintained their intensity, kicking 13.14-92 in the third quarter, bringing their match total to 218. Taylor ‘Tofu’ Raymond’s mark on the line added some drama. However, James 'Stretch' Cusack, the peanut-gallery-favourite, did right by the team and was duly congratulated with two goals himself in front of his visiting family from New South Wales. Josh 'Noodles' Grierson showcased his skills with his outlandish celebration following last week's display.

In the final quarter, MHSOBFC closed out the game with another 13 goals and 6 behinds, reaching an astonishing 301 points. James Lake put on a spectacular display of pinpoint accuracy. Perhaps a name change to James 'Ocean' would be appropriate, as the winger scored an impressive 11 goals and only 1 behind, further solidifying the Unicorns' dominance. Fraser McGlashan, the silky Scotsman, kicked his first-ever AFL goal, with the whole group rallying around him in a moment he will surely take with him on his travels.

Nafi Anaan and Nicholas Campbell were instrumental in the midfield and forward battle, providing crucial possessions and setting up scoring opportunities throughout the game. Gordon 'Pablo' Beet orchestrated the Magoos from the back, delivering blow after blow to the Bullants with his left foot, progressing the ball to the midfield and forwards with devastating accuracy. Dinuk Epa's stamina was on full display, contributing significantly to the scoreboard and maintaining high energy levels throughout the game. Billy Mullin brought his trademark physicality throughout the game, ensuring the Bullants defence had no room to manoeuvre. Bryce Dowling demonstrated his high footy IQ throughout the game, showcasing exceptional skills and contributing to the Unicorns' dominant performance. He was pivotal in the Bullants being held to nil.

As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read a remarkable 301-0, a testament to the Unicorns' dominance and precision. The Bullants were powerless against the onslaught, their defence leaking more than a swag in monsoon season. MHSOBFC celebrated a victory that firmly re-established the Woodfull-Miller Oval as their impenetrable fortress. As they look ahead, they'll carry the confidence from this game into future matchups, aiming to continue their winning streak and maintain their place in the top four.

Final Score: MHSOBFC 47.19-301 defeated Bulleen Templestowe 0.0-0 

Goal Kickers: James Lake 11, Zac Comley-Burns 5, Nafi Anaan 5, Billy Mullin 4, Aaron Turner 3, Nicholas Campbell 3, Dinuk Epa 3, Taylor Raymond 3, James Cusack 2, Zac Smooker 2, Bryce Dowling, Mason Fennessy-Kent, Alex Mourtikas, Josh Grierson, Gordon Beet, Fraser McGlashan

Best Players: James Lake, Zac Comley-Burns, Fraser McGlashan, Alex Mourtikas, Nafi Anaan, Nicholas Campbell