St Bedes/Mentone Tigers went down to Old Trinity in a match where they led in most departments, except the one that counts the most, on the scoreboard. With no breeze to speak of, Old Trinity skipped away to a 3 goal lead before the Tigers troubled the scorer. By half way through the first quarter the Tigers were getting their hands on the ball, but their inaccuracy in front of goal meant the home team held a 7 point lead at quarter time. The second quarter bought a more organized effort with Gavin Brown providing great drive off half back, Pat Kean in everything and Michael Curcio and George Rowlands finishing well to convert effort into goals. Old Trinity nabbed a goal right on half time and took a 2 point lead to the sheds. After the long break the game opened up with both sides able to move the ball well from end to end. Luke Hulse was having a real influence at half forward and Juice Wintle was giving the St Bedes/Mentone Tigers runners great supply out of the ruck. Cam Hansen was starting the break the lines and George Rowlands continued to provide a great focal point up forward. But Old Trinity’s happy knack of running forward of the ball gave the home side a couple of easy goals and the stage was set for the game to go down to the wire.
The final term started tensely with a goal apiece before Old Trinity edged ahead. Despite multiple forays forward, another Tiger goal seemed elusive. Mouse Wintle continued to provide a great link between defence and attack, but the Tigers couldn’t buy a goal. An interception and an uncharacteristic turnover gave the home side some breathing space and full credit to Old Trinity; they finished the job from there. The Reserves provided a contest but were ultimately outplayed and went down by 27 points. At Brindisi St, both Under 19 teams hosted local rivals, Beaumaris. The young Tigers dominated in both encounters with Under 19 Reds (Premier) winning by 87 points and the Under 19 Blues (South) monstering the neighbours to the tune of 27 goals. Next Saturday St Bedes/Mentone Tigers return home to take on last year’s fellow Preliminary Finalist, Old Xaverians.