R14 2024 | Thirds vs Box Hill North

The Thirds went out to Elgar Park to face Box Hill North in the return fixture for season 2024. A tough draw the week before against the ladder leaders had placed some extra emphasis on this game for the Unicorns, with a win required to keep us in the hunt for finals. Box Hill North were undermanned with only 16 players available and asked for the game to be played 16 on 16. The only worry heading into this match was the wind and rain which had picked up just before the first bounce.

Box Hill North got off to a strong start, kicking the first two goals of the match before Max Nash slotted the Thirds first of the day. With the wind favouring Box Hill’s end, they scored another 3 goals to go up by 17 points at quarter time.

The momentum began to turn in the second quarter, with the midfield slowly getting on top of their opponents and Lucas Blatchford, in customary style, driving the ball inside forward 50. The Thirds had 9 scoring shots to 2 in the second quarter, tying things up at half time.

Heading into the second half, the emphasis was put on the players to win the contested ball and lift the pressure on the opponents with strong tackling. This was exemplified by Oliver Dark and Alex Shulman who really began to get on top in the midfield. Bryce Kennett also played a strong game up forward, often acting as the lone tall forward and taking marks in the pouring rain.

The game was still on the line with the Thirds only up by 6 points at three quarter time. After a strong last quarter, the Thirds emerged victorious with a 7-point win, keeping the hunt for the finals alive.

Final Score: MHSOBFC 7.22-64 defeated Box Hill North 9.3-57

Goal Kickers: Alex Shulman 4, Bryce Kennett 2, Max Nash

Best Players: Oliver Dark, Alex Shulman, Lucas Blatchford, Bryce Kennett, Toby Eberbach, Albert Kuang