Final Away Test Done – All Eyes on the Snakepit Now
Round 16 marked St Bernard’s final away trip of the 2025 season, taking on reigning premiers Old Scotch. With injuries and late changes forcing an undermanned lineup, coach Steve Alessio’s message was simple – be competitive and play for one another. The boys delivered exactly that, leaving nothing in the tank in their last road challenge.
The contest began at a furious pace, both sides producing attacking bursts and resilient defensive stands. Luca Alessio kicked the opening two goals for the Snowdogs, setting the tone early and keeping the scoreboard level. At quarter-time, the scores were locked at 33 apiece, reflecting the even nature of the game.
In the second term, Old Scotch edged ahead with four goals to two, but St Bernard’s stayed in the fight. The intensity and effort on display from both teams highlighted just how much was on the line, with the half-time siren bringing a well-earned breather.
The weather turned after the main break, with steady rain making clean ball use difficult. The game became scrappy, but the Snowdogs dug in, refusing to let the conditions or the scoreboard break their spirit.
By the final quarter, fatigue began to show. With scoring opportunities drying up and defensive structures under pressure, Bernard’s couldn’t hit the scoreboard. Fortunately, Old Scotch’s inaccurate kicking limited the damage, as they managed just one goal despite dominating territory.
While the result didn’t go our way, individual efforts stood tall. Youngster Angus Ryan impressed again with his run and willingness to take the game on, while Luca Alessio was a constant aerial threat, finishing with three goals. Ruckman Matthew Sauro fought all day, and Dom Sullivan backed up last week’s best-on-ground performance with another tireless display. Captain Mitch Hughes led from the front, guiding his teammates, impacting across all lines of the field, and showing why he epitomises the heart of this group.
Final Score
Old Scotch: 5.3 (33), 9.9 (63), 11.12 (78), 12.15 (87)
St Bernard’s: 5.3 (33), 7.5 (47), 9.9 (63), 9.11 (65)
Best
Old Scotch: Rhys Galvin, Henry Brown, Alex Noblet, Charlie Cormack, Jack Brown, Ben Hays
St Bernard’s: Mitchell Hughes, Angus Ryan, Dominic Sullivan, Luca Alessio, Harrison Fuller, Matthew Sauro
Goals
Old Scotch: D. Lawrence 4, H. Brown 2, A. Jelbart 1, A. Noblet 1, J. Torney 1, B. Easton 1, H. Wild 1, W. Clark 1
St Bernard’s: L. Alessio 3, D. Iermano 2, L. Said 2, Z. Overman 1, M. Sauro 1
The equation now is clear: win the final two games to secure A Grade football in 2026. It begins with Old Haileybury at home next Saturday – a side pushing for finals after a strong year in their return to the top flight. Their last clash in Round 8 was a shootout that went down to the wire, with Bernard’s surging late but falling just short.
This time, the Snakepit will be the difference. Home ground advantage is more than just familiar turf – it’s the roar of the crowd, the energy from the sidelines, and the St Bernard’s community standing side by side with the 22 on the field.
To get across the line, the boys need everyone behind them. So get down to the Pit at 2:00pm next Saturday, wear your colours with pride, and help drive the Snowdogs to victory.
Written by: Hannah Juricskay