R11 2024 | Thirds vs Old Ivanhoe
Riding high from the wave of euphoria surrounding last week's stirring win in an important milestone game, this week's daunting home matchup against the undefeated Old Ivanhoe hit an anticlimactic snag before the opening bounce, with news that MHSOBFC co-captain Pat Bulford would withdraw due to illness.
Old Ivanhoe looked slick in several passages of play early on, getting the jump on the Unicorns as they broke open a five-goal-to-one opening term, and displaying their credentials as a side to be reckoned with.
Despite the slow start, MHSOBFC was able to claw back some momentum in the second quarter after some stern words from coach James Yucel, however the home side still went into the main break 39 points in arrears.
The third term belonged to the Unicorns, as another lift in intensity and pressure on the opposition led to a three-goal quarter, leaving them within striking distance heading into the final change.
Sadly, the Old Ivanhoe lead proved to be a bridge too far, as they displayed maturity to slow the game down and repel the gallant last-ditch efforts of the Unicorns. Despite the final margin being 29 points, MHSOBFC showed plenty of pride and determination to win the second half, proving that at their best they are capable of matching the divisional leaders.
Ruckman Brendan O'Carroll was the clear standout, as he produced a Brodie Grundy-esque performance both in hairstyle and work rate, getting around the ground tirelessly almost like an extra midfielder and even getting forward to kick two goals in a herculean effort. He was well supported once again by vice-captain and midfield bull Alex Shulman, who relished the in and under work as always, winning the lion's share of contested ball and tackling strongly, as well as kicking two goals from forward line stoppages.
Forward Liam Ferris fights hard for the ball in his milestone match. Image courtesy of Rhys Parry.
Lucas Blatchford, to nobody’s surprise, was a wall in defence with his impeccable positioning and ball use being his biggest strengths on full display once again, being supported dutifully by fellow backman Callum Hayden who again displayed his ability to balance his attacking runs with dour lockdown efforts. Sydneysider and rugby convert Oliver Dark was as tenacious as he was ferocious with his tackling and pressure, initially starting as a defensive forward, before being thrown into the midfield and not looking out of place at all.
The Unicorns will look to bounce back next week and celebrate club favourite and former Under 19s captain Liam Ferris' 100th club game against Swinburne. ‘Fez's’ road to this elusive milestone was rocky to say the least, but to reach the magic number through sheer grit and determination speaks volumes about who he is as a player and person.
Final Score: MHSOBFC 8.6-54 defeated by Old Ivanhoe 12.11-83
Goal Kickers: Brendan O’Carroll 2, Alex Shulman 2, Tianyi Xie, Kris McDonald, Harry Flanagan-Dorbin, Oliver Dark
Best Players: Brendan O’Carroll, Alex Shulman, Lucas Blatchford, Oliver Dark, Kris McDonald, Callum Hayden