R11 2023 | Thirds vs Elsternwick AFC

Coming off two consecutive losses, the Thirds were out to arrest their form slump against Elsternwick AFC (who they beat by 35 points in round 6) and reassert their position in second place.

In the last of a five-game run of away games, MHSOB was able to overcome the rainy and soggy conditions to recapture their shape and structure and come away with a disciplined and convincing 52-point win. Despite the margin not blowing out until the final quarter, the Unicorns’ steadily built lead was never really threatened.

Among the many positives were the contributions from Irishmen Aaron Moules, who in just his second game slotted his first two goals for the club and showed plenty of aggression and endeavour, and the returning Dan Condon who also helped himself to two smart goals and gave a strong forward line presence all day.

Key forward Jamie Shulman once again proved to be too much to handle for the Elsternwick defence, pulling down plenty of marks despite the conditions and finishing with five goals and extend his lead in the division’s goal kicking leaderboard with 40. Charlie Colman built on a strong debut last week to again shoulder much of the ruck duties and won his matchup resoundingly.

Lucas Blatchford and Tristan Francis were the standouts in the backline, placing themselves in prime positions for intercepts, reading the play and giving the Elsternwick forwards very little time and space to impact the result. Midfielder Alex Shulman was again best on ground with his clearance work around the stoppages, breaking tackles and also getting forward for a couple of goals.

The Thirds will finally dust off their home shorts next week for the matchup against Box Hill North. With a chance to almost guarantee finals this week, the Unicorns will relish the opportunity against the side they put away by 127 points last time.

Final Score: MHSOB: 12.13-85 defeated Elsternwick: 5.3-33

Goal Kickers: J. Shulman 5, A. Moules 2, A. Shulman 2, D. Condon 2, D. Tsintsiras

Best Players: A. Shulman, A. Moules, C. Colman, L. Blatchford, T. Francis, J. Shulman