Round 6 saw The Lions face up against a regular foe in Glenunga at The Den in what could have been a dangerous game. Glenunga are struggling at the moment but had reputedly cajoled some big name recruits to join the ranks in recent weeks. With some interesting comments in the media about the home side being “only” Mitchell Park, the scene was set for a couple of ripping contests.

The B Grade have been fantastic for weeks on end now. Starting last year with some strong performances they have continued on playing with confidence and flair not seen in my time at Mitchell Park. A 30 goal victory is an impressive feat for a side with many players still to come back. The biggest highlight from the weekend was the form of our youngsters. Brad Moroney was again best afield in the B Grade with a stunning 2nd quarter netting him 5 goals (7 by the end of the game). Young Possum was kicking them from his jacksy but as Craig said on Saturday night they all came from his hard work and determination. Reno Viscone was unlucky not to be playing A Grade football after doing his job admirably in the previous weeks. To his absolute credit he hasn’t sulked or gone sour but instead put his head down and worked harder, culminating in a great midfield performance and 3 goals. Darryl Larsen was superb off the back flank providing run and rebound and the occasional spectacular mark. Smoker kicked 5, Ryno 4 and the Heng brothers 2 a piece with Mitchell Park having a resounding victory 33.18 – 2.3. The only disappointing effort from the B Grade was the turn out on Saturday night. Only 6 players coming back to the club after a 30 goal win – not good enough.

The A Grade were determined to make up for a couple of disappointing weeks. With the win that got away fresh in our minds this was a game we were determined not to let slip. Glenunga are a proud club and were always going to provide pressure and intensity. True to form the Rams didn’t give up and hounded us all day never letting us get out of 3^rd gear. There was some good football played and considering the first rate players still to come in - Rogers, Gelven, Bates, Rivett, Schutte, Dowsett, Logan, Ryan and Harrison to name but a few - it was a good performance to win by 20+ goals. Luke McDonnell was easily best on ground with a staggering 14 goals to his name. He marked everything in sight and kicked well. Glenunga flooded quite heavily in the second half and considering the numbers in our forward line it was a great effort to take so many contested marks. His brother Nat McDonnell was also great leading from the front with 5 goals - his voice providing essential leadership. Michael Maher was fantastic in the guts, I lost count how many times he either killed or won a contested clearance - he will be a wonderful addition to Mitchell Park. There were many other contributors – Casey Varnas was very good again with 4 goals, the old firm of Joe Leck and Adam Hay showed they still have it and Peter "Bomber" Eblen was more than serviceable in the ruck. Ben Weekley, Troy Potuszynski and Aaron Cox were the other goal kickers – Mitchell Park running out winners 26.17 – 4.3.

Apologies for the long review, with nearly 60 goals kicked on the weekend we had  lots of players worthy of a mention and I am sure I’ve missed plenty.

See you on the track!

Cheers...

Morgs