VAFA Round 4 came and went with a very successful day for the Club, with all three sides having comfortable victories over their hapless opponents despite the nuisance of unavailabilities due to the presence of Groovin the Moo in Bendigo.
The Under 19’s after a couple of near misses returned to top form with a great victory over the previously undefeated Whitefriars. Their ability to take advantage of both turns with the wind proved crucial, as they took full advantage booting 9 goals through this period, combined with their defensive ability to stifle the opposition when they had use were the catalysts for a well deserved win. Sam Barca kicked 3 goals, with Max Millwood, Kieran Arthur, and Jordan Pastura slotting 2 apiece.
Reagan Maddaford, Ryan Mravjlak, and Jordan Pastura were named among the best.
Undermanned but not to be out done The Reserves showed the strength of the depth of the club this year by travelling to Albert Park, and coming away victors in a very good all round team performance which augurs well for the remainder of the year. After the disappointment of Round 1 the boys have shown plenty of endeavour to win their last 3 games. Chris McCready had a break out game with 4 majors, well supported by Mark Geschke, Ben Hodges, Matt Caia, and Michael Wintle who all kicked 2. Jarryd Blenkinsop made sure the Selectors noticed him with a BOG performance, receiving solid support from Matt Pitt, Damien Waters, Trent Pastura, and the rest of the team.
Rivalries were to be renewed as the Senior side took to the field against Ajax for the first time since the legendary battles of 2006-2007. The windy conditions made it difficult for players of both sides to get any system and rhythm into their games, but by the long break the Tigers had worked themselves into a winning position with a comfortable 30 point lead. Ajax with full use of the breeze capatilised on many Tiger mistakes in the third stanza and by the final change had narrowed the margin to a solitary point. But with some harsh words from the Coach still ringing in their ears, combined with the breeze and our superior fitness the side was able to slam on 8 goals in the final term to record a comfortable result and take the season tally to 3-1 a far cry from our position this time last year. Mitch Coen relishing his new Jumper No kicked 3 goals, Michael Barnes, Pat Liston, Tim Doherty, and Simon Richards all kicked 2, while Pat Kean, Paul Wintle, and Simon Richards were named in the best. An unfortunate injury to Chris Richards marred the day for the club, and all involved wish Chris a speedy recovery, and we hope to see him back on the track soon.