R2 2023 | Thirds vs Canterbury

Coming off a promising 44-point win last week, MHSOBFC faced Canterbury away and produced a comprehensive all-round performance to romp away to a 133-point thumping of the Cobras, 22.16.148 to 2.3.15.

The Unicorns found their rhythm early to string together fast, direct and linking football, emphasising attacking through the corridor that led to a commanding 21-point lead at quarter time.

Strong tackling and relentless pressure acts from the Unicorns restricted the opposition from clean handling of the ball, and they were able to capitalise on these fumbles and turnovers to maintain their dominance, stretching the margin out to a healthy 47 points at the main break.

Buoyed with confidence, co-captains Pat Bulford and Albert Kuang reiterated putting the foot down to extinguish any hopes of undoing their sizzling start and really put the opposition to the sword. With the prospect a triple-digit win within reach, the Unicorns heeded the call, opening the floodgates and galloping out to a 91-point lead at three quarter time, then further asserting their stranglehold in the last quarter. The Unicorns kicked 13 goals to none in the second half.

Key forward Jamie Shulman once again led the way both in the air and on the ground with an impressive bag of six goals (replicating last week), proving a class above the Canterbury defence. Midfielders Alex Shulman and Sam Bonser provided plenty of drive, composure and toughness at the contest, with plenty of possessions all over the ground and getting forward to kick four goals each. Small forward Stefan Longo added pace and spark around the ball, kicking two classy goals and proving too hard to catch. Liam Ferris and newcomer Dan Tsintsiras combined for 5 goals and showed crafty footy IQ to play a hand in many other score involvements.

Sitting second on the ladder, the Unicorns will face ladder-leaders Parkside away next week in a highly anticipated clash, aiming to build further on their most promising start for a long time.

Final Score: MHSOB: 22.16-148 defeated Canterbury: 2.3-15

Goal Kickers: J. Shulman 6, S. Bonser 4, A. Shulman 4, L. Ferris 3, S. Longo 2, D. Tsintsiras 2, A. Kuang

Best Players: S. Bonser, A. Shulman, J. Shulman, S. Longo, J. Kulasingham, A. Kuang