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 3rd 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 |