R17 2024 | Seniors at Brunswick

Ben Field-Pimm breaks clear of a Brunswick tackle. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson.

Round 17 saw MHSOBFC head west to Gillon Oval to face off against the top of the table Brunswick. Although finals were out of reach, there was still a lot to play for to build some momentum into next year and have an impact on Brunswick’s momentum leading into September. 

There was a good feeling amongst the group pre-game, with a real sense of opportunity to show what the Unicorns really are capable of despite an up and down season. It was a low scoring start to the game, with a combined two goals scored up until quarter time. MHSOBFC had all the opportunities but were wasteful in front of goal, however still went into the first break two points clear. 

A slight breeze helped Brunswick score in the second term, but Melbourne High didn't let them break open the game, with a 3 goal to 2 term in Brunswicks' favour. Defender turned midfielder, Sam Hayes, played a pivotal role kicking two majors in the second quarter to keep the Unicorns in touch. MHSOBFC came into the halftime break full of gusto after two quarters of fantastic effort and contest.

The visitors kept this determination going in the third quarter, playing one of their better terms of the year, keeping Brunswick to one goal and kicking three of their own. Hugh Radcliffe-Smith started to take over the game, breaking more tackles than Dustin Martin in his golden years, more contested marks than Jesse Hogan and even taking stints in the ruck. This created plenty of opportunity for young midfielder Cameron Witt, who continues to have a fantastic year with some of the best decision making across the club and silky skills to go with it. These individual efforts, as well as three quarters of consistent team effort saw the Unicorns go into the final break seven points clear. 

Unfortunately, five minutes of lapsed concentration at the beginning of the fourth quarter gave Brunswick all the opportunity it needed to break the game open, booting four quick goals. However, MHSOBFC was able to respond, turning the game around from the backline, led by Cleve Wesley all day who made life very difficult for the opposition forwards. Will Kruyt had his usual impact from the ruck, providing silver service to the midfielders, who were then able to give the forwards plenty of chances. Will Hellier was able to capitalise on these opportunities, kicking four majors over the course of the day. Despite some great resilience, the Unicorns were unable to get themselves back on the right side of the ledger, ending the game nine points in arrears. Despite the result, the boys can hold their heads high, playing a great contested brand of football and really making Brunswick work hard for the victory.

Final Scores: MHSOBFC 9.10-64 defeated by Brunswick 11.7-73

Goals: Will Hellier 4, Sam Hayes 3, Riley Maringoni, Nick McKinnon

Best: Hugh Radcliffe-Smith, Sam Hayes, Will Hellier, Cleve Westley, Cameron Witt, Will Kruyt