R12 2023 | Seniors at Parkside

MHSOB travelled to Alphington to take on ladder leaders Parkside, looking for a win to bridge the gap between themselves and the top four. The home team, ultimately, would prove to be a stern test.

The first quarter was an incredibly tight affair, as reward for effort on the scoreboard proved hard to find. Midfielders Julian Eimutis and Petro Pirozek continued their strong seasons, working hard through the middle of the park. At the end of the first term, the hosts held a six point buffer, 1.1 to 0.1.

In the second term, the hosts put on a stronger display, with a game high six scoring opportunities for the quarter, despite the efforts of defensive stalwarts Charles Pearson and Mitch Wilson. For the Unicorns, Alex Mourtikas kicked true for their first, and subsequently only major, of the game. 

Charles Pearson and his teammates fight for the ball. Image courtesy of Jim Wilson.

Coming into the third term,Parkside led MHSOB 4.4 28, to 1.1 7. A grand total of four points would be added in the third, a struggle not unlike the first term. Sean Lester continued a strong return from injury, tireless down back, and at the end of the third the game was not a foregone conclusion, with 22 points separating the two sides. 

Unfortunately for the Unicorns, Parkside were too strong in the final period, kicking away to a decisive 45-point win, perhaps not indicative of the quality of contest for large periods of the game. The final score read Parkside 8.9 57, to MHSOB 1.6 12.

Final Scores: MHSOB: 1.6-12 defeated by Parkside: 8.9-57

Goal Kickers: A. Mourtikas

Best Players: J. Eimutis, S. Lester, C. Pearson, P. Pirozek, M. Wilson, A. Horton