St Bernard’s Storm Home to Claim Crucial Round 7 Victory
Round 7 saw St Bernard’s return to action against Old Haileybury, determined to build on the positive signs shown in recent weeks and hopefully secure the much needed 4 points. Coming off a strong Reserves victory earlier in the day, the energy around the group was evident from the opening bounce as St Bernard's came out firing.
St Bernard’s made an impressive start, bringing high intensity around the contest and, importantly, converting their opportunities in front of goal, an area that had proven challenging in previous rounds. The early efficiency on the scoreboard helped reward the team's hard work and ensured they gained control of the game.
Despite controlling large periods of play, Old Haileybury’s youthful speed remained a constant threat. While St Bernard’s had plenty of the football and controlled territory, costly turnovers and skill errors provided Haileybury with opportunities to stay in the contest. The visitors were quick to capitalise whenever mistakes were made, preventing St Bernard's from fully breaking the game open and ultimately leading the scoreboard heading into the first break.
The second quarter became a tighter affair, with neither side able to establish a significant advantage. Both teams battled hard around the contest, and with momentum swinging throughout the term, the match remained finely balanced heading into the second half.
As rain began to fall in the final quarter, Senior Coach Ses delivered a clear challenge to the playing group. Early in the final term it appeared Old Haileybury may have the answers, controlling much of the opening ten minutes and putting St Bernard’s under immense pressure. However, when the game was there to be won, St Bernard's senior players stood tall.
After receiving close attention throughout the afternoon, Ben Huggard produced a dominant final-quarter performance. Breaking tackles, driving his team forward, and returning to his damaging best, Huggard's influence proved critical at a perfect time ahead of his upcoming Big V commitments.
Ethan Schumann was also outstanding around the stoppages, repeatedly generating centre clearances in the final term and providing his midfielders with first use of the football when it mattered most. Mitch Hughes also delivered a crucial moment, pushing forward and converting an important goal that helped shift momentum back in St Bernard’s favour.
In defence, Zac Overman once again produced a tremendous performance, standing strong against Haileybury's dangerous forwards and providing stability throughout the day. Debutant Will Vaessen also impressed in his first senior appearance, stepping confidently into his role and handling the significant jump from Under 19 football to senior level with maturity and composure.
Up forward, Lachlan Papley's speed and relentless pressure proved invaluable against Haileybury's quick lineup. His ability to create opportunities and lock the ball inside the forward 50 was rewarded with three goals in an excellent performance. Luke Said also adapted seamlessly to his role in the forward line, using his strong hands and marking ability to provide a reliable target.
Each individual embraced their role and executed it when required, creating a complete team performance that ultimately proved the difference. St Bernard's were rewarded for their persistence, finishing the game strongly and kicking the final six goals of the match. It was a remarkable finish that reflected the group's determination and significantly boosted confidence and morale heading into the second half of the season.
The victory was thoroughly deserved and provided valuable momentum for St Bernard’s. Following a well-earned bye, we now will look to carry that confidence into their Round 8 clash against Old Caulfield as they continue their push up the ladder.
SCORES
ST BERNARDS 4.1 25, 6.5 41, 10.6 66, 16.9 105
OLD HAILEYBURY 4.4 2, 6.7 43, 8.10 58, 12.14 86
BEST
St Bernards Ben Huggard, Ethan Schumann, Luke Said, Zac Overman, Dylan Gwynne, Lachlan Papley
Old Haileybury Ned Conway, Hugo Nosiara, Private player, Jasper Russell, Brede Seccull, Noah Higgins
GOALS
St Bernards L. Papley 3, M. Watson 3, D. Gilham 2, B.Huggard 2, C.Vauge 2, L. Di Lizio, M.Holland, M.Hughes, L.Said
Old Haileybury F. Gregor 3, J. Chilcott 2, C. Goonewardene 2, B. Yates 2, C. Harrop, L. Riley, Private Player
Written by Hannah Juricskay