R11 2024 | U20s vs St Kevins

MHSOBFC was eager to demonstrate their improvement to rivals St Kevins since their previous clash in round 4. With four new players in the team this week, strong communication and cohesion was crucial, and they delivered on both fronts at home on the Woodfull-Miller Oval.

With two opening goals within the first five minutes by soccer convert Jude Bachelet and vice-captain Lachlan Sharrock, the Unicorns displayed an intensity unseen this year. True to form, St Kevins utilised their foot skills and class to respond and level the score. Although there were several wayward shots on goal from both teams, it highlighted the immense pressure on the ball carriers, and set the tone for the rest of the game. St Kevins led at quarter time, 3.5-23 to 2.2-14.

Fill-in coach Lachlan McKinnon made it clear that the primary way to move the football was through the middle. As a result, Lachlan Sharrock and backman-turned-forward Minro Eshwara scored crucial goals early in the second quarter, giving the Unicorns the upper hand. On a day that promised a tough battle, captain Lachlan O'Halloran displayed his class at full back, with stunning marks and aggressive play, igniting MHSOBFC’s offence. Midfielders Mark Fenwick and Arush Jhunjhuwala showcased their football intelligence, consistently supplying the forwards with good delivery. However, St Kevins responded with some late easy goals, and took a 12-point lead into the main break.

With both teams needing a strong start, the Unicorns set the tone by kicking four goals, taking a 10-point lead and surprising their opponents. This performance showcased the iterative improvements the club faithful have been witnessing at training. Jude Bachelet, displaying an unusual burst of speed for a 6'2" ruckman, kicked a fantastic goal, while Mark Fenwick demonstrated his agility by scoring from a forward stoppage. The Unicorns were energised, but then St Kevins' class became evident. With relentless effort on both ends and intense contest pressure, they responded with five goals of their own, reclaiming the lead and extending to a game-high margin of 26 points at three quarter time.

In the last quarter, the message was clear: take risks and play aggressively to try and overrun the opposition. Austin Reynolds, having an outstanding game (and season), delivered a precise corridor kick to Lachlan Fearn, who scored his first goal of the season. The Unicorns sensed an opportunity, but once again, St Kevins’ top players stepped up, thwarting the home side’s efforts. Combined with some wayward kicking from MHSOBFC, St Kevins capitalised on their chances, and piling on the scoreboard. Despite the best efforts of the backline, the pressure became too much, and the visitors ran out 33-point victors. 

It was a fantastic group effort from the Unicorns. After losing to the same team by 75 points last time, narrowing the gap to less than half that total showed significant progress and perseverance. With a big opportunity against rivals Old McKinnon/Glen Eira next week, everyone is eager to see if the Unicorns can secure their first victory of the year.

Final Score: MHSOBFC 9.12-66 defeated by St Kevins 14.15-99

Goal Kickers: Lachlan Sharrock, Jude Bachelet 2, Minor Eshwara, Mark Fenwick, Lachlan Fearn

Best Players: Lachlan O’Halloran, Mark Fenwick, Lachlan Sharrock, Austin Reynolds, Jude Bachelet