Just seven days after the heart-stopping, after-the-siren victory against Uni Blues, St Bernard's returned to University Oval, this time facing University Blacks.

The memories of that dramatic Round 1 win still lingered, but the focus was firmly on building momentum in the early stages of the season. The weather, a stark contrast to the previous week's tension, was perfect for football, albeit with temperatures pushing close to 30 degrees, adding an extra layer of physical challenge to the contest.

Knowing University Blacks would be eager to make amends for their own round one loss, the Bernard's coaching staff prepared the team for a fast start from the opposition. True to form, the Blacks came out firing, establishing an early lead and heading into the first break with a slender one-goal advantage.

However, the second quarter saw St Bernard's unleash a devastating response. The boys came out with renewed vigour, kicking four unanswered goals within the first eight minutes, showcasing their attacking prowess. Just as they looked to be running away with the game, University Blacks demonstrated their resilience, fighting back with a few goals of their own, ensuring the contest remained closely fought.

As the afternoon wore on and the heat began to take its toll, fatigue started to creep in. At halftime, the coaches delivered a clear message: finish the game strong and avoid the lapses that had plagued the team at times last season. The players responded emphatically.

They dominated the second half, kicking an impressive 10 goals to 4, effectively putting the game beyond doubt. The final quarter was particularly impressive, with St Bernard's booting 6 goals to 2.

The standout performers for St Bernard's were numerous. Harrison Schumann was a dominant force, while Tom Sullivan's all-round performance was exceptional. Zac Overman's work in the backline was crucial, and Ben Huggard provided a rock-solid presence in the midfield. Luke Said and Matthew Watson also earned high praise for their contributions.

The goal kickers were spread throughout the team, highlighting the depth of the Bernard's attack. Oliver Liberatore, Tom Sullivan, and Matthew Watson each bagged three goals, while Nicholas Conlan and Luke Di Lizio contributed two apiece. Edyn Sibbald also kicked two, with Darren Colaco and Marcus Holland chipping in with one each.

UNIVERSITY BLACK    3.1    5.4    7.9     9.10 (64)
ST BERNARDS             2.1    7.3    11.6    17.8 (110)

GOALS
University Blacks: Cassidy 2, Grocott 2, Loftus 2, St Clair 2, Clark
St Bernards: Liberatore 3, Sullivan 3, Watson 3, Conlan 2, Di Lizio 2, Sibbald 2, Colaco, Holland

BEST
University Blacks: Cassidy, St Clair, Robertson, Clark, Grocott, Dakis
St Bernards: Schumann, Sullivan, Overman, Huggard, Said, Watson

Now, the team enjoys a well-earned bye due to the Easter break. However, all eyes are already firmly fixed on their highly anticipated first home game against last year's grand finalists, Old Brighton. Old Brighton, coming off two impressive wins, will present a significant challenge, and the stakes are heightened by the fact that the match will be for the ANZAC Day Cup.

The club is planning a special ANZAC Day ceremony on the field before the seniors game, a fitting tribute to honour those who have served. Limited luncheon tickets are still available for those wanting to enjoy the game in a special environment. The anticipation for this clash is already building, and it promises to be a memorable occasion.