R14 2023 | U20s at Oakleigh AFC
Coming off a devastating loss to Old Xaverians, the MHSOB U/20’s were motivated to perform strongly and keep their finals hopes alive against third-placed Oakleigh AFC at W.A. Scammell Reserve.
The Unicorns players were aware of the challenge that the home side would provide and were ready to play out a tough game of football. The team viewed this as an opportunity to see how they stacked up against one of the better outfits in the competition, despite having several players called up to play in the Seniors.
The first quarter started poorly for MHSOB, who struggled to find rhythm while Oakleigh were easily able to settle into the game at their home ground, resulting in a 3.7-25 to 0 score line going at the first break.
In the second quarter, the Unicorns showed some improvement with their ball movement, and were able to convert this into scoring attempts with Anthony Mastroianni securing our first goal of the game. Despite this, Oakleigh remained on the front foot with the score line reading 7.11-53 to 1.2-8 at halftime.
The third quarter momentum remained much the same as the first half, with Oakleigh continuing to be able to find their forwards with ease. Despite showing periods of excellent run and carry and ball movement, MHSOB couldn’t keep up with the home side, going into the final break down by 81 points.
The U/20s went into the final term knowing full well that a win from this position was out of reach. Despite this, the team remained positive, and with a different goal in mind - to win the quarter and prove that they have what it takes to compete with a quality side like Oakleigh. MHSOB went out fighting and despite a key midfielder, Gabe ‘Goose’ Wines-Winch, coming off for most of the quarter with a yellow card, the Unicorns managed to score 3.3-21 while holding Oakleigh to 3.2-20. The home side winning the game by 80 points.
With a bye coming up, the U/20s are looking forward to the final three games of their season and aim to improve upon their current ladder standing of sixth.
Final Score: MHSOB: 5.6-36 defeated by Oakleigh AFC 16.20-116
Goal Kickers: L. Sharrock 3, N. Anaan, A. Mastroianni
Best Players: N. Wood, A. Stikoltzik, G. Wines-Winch, J. Dimogotsi, B. Elder, N. Anaan