R18 2024 | Seniors vs St Marys Salesian

James Dimogotsi celebrates after a big goal. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson. 

MHSOBFC finished the season in a style we probably wish could’ve been demonstrated more often; high scoring & accurate kicking, plus some good ball movement and celebratory beers. 

After losing four on the trot, it was important that we went into the summer break on a high. We were evenly placed in 7th, against St Mary’s-Salesian in 6th (same wins, separated on percentage). Last game of a triple header in front of a home-ground luncheon, on a perfect August day. 

We started well, kicking five goals in the first term and looking dangerous with the potent mix of Will Hellier, Matt Robertson & Will Kruyt. Flowing on from his form through rounds 1-17, Nick McKinnon dominated in the mid, and was supported well by Brayden Swenson, Cam Witt & Sam Hayes who have all had a solid month to finish the year. 

It was the second quarter where we played some of our best footy for 2024. The Unicorns kicked six goals to St Marys’ three behinds, and extended the lead to 40 points. Forward entries were quick and deep, and when the talls weren’t marking them, the crumbers were there to finish. This was supported by our backline who rebounded well with recruits Duncan Clarke, Ben Field-Pimm & Cleve Westley all leading the way. 

We won’t miss the first 2 minutes after the half-time break. The playing group message was all about respecting & rewarding BP (coach Bernard Pretty). And we followed through, with an even quarter where we could’ve taken the foot off the peddle. 

The last quarter was similar, with both sides kicking nine goals each after half time. The highlight was full-back turned forward for the day, Cleve, leading, gathering an ordinary pass from his teammate, turning and kicking truly! MHSOBFC won by 42 points and the seniors now turn their attention to supporting the reserves in their finals campaign. 

A huge thank you to the following people for season 2024 (and they’re not alone): Bernard Pretty (coach), Warren Fall (team manager), Phil Anderson (time keeper), Calvin & his team of trainers, Tom Rendell (runner), plus the various people who filled in as boundary & goal umpire and other roles over the season.

Final Scores: MHSOBFC 20.8-128 defeated St Marys Salesian 13.8-86

Goals: Will Hellier 6, Matt Robertson 3, Nick McKinnon 2, Hugh Radcliffe-Smith 2, Will Cardwell, James Dimogotsi, James Dozzi, Sam Hayes, Will Kruyt, Robert Rae, Cleve Westley,

Best: Cleve Westley, Nick McKinnon, Will Hellier, Brayden Swenson, James Dimogotsi, Sam Hayes