St Bedes/Mentone Tigers defeated local rivals Beaumaris by 5 goals to secure a berth in next Saturday’s second semi final.
The match was preceded by a fantastic luncheon where 220 people were treated to the memories and musings of former St Bede’s old collegian and now General Manager of Cricket Victoria, Shaun Graf.
In front of a huge crowd, the visitors had first use of the firm breeze and following a tightly contested 20 minutes with goals to both sides, eventually pressed their advantage, going to the first break 3 goals up. The Tigers then took their turn with the wind and kicked 5 goals, but perhaps more importantly, held the Sharks to a single major to take a narrow 5 point lead at the main break.
The Tigers third quarter effort was the difference. With Beaumaris managing only 3 goals and the Tigers scoring 2 of their own, it looked like the Shark’s narrow 3 point lead was not going to be enough.
But for the first half of the final quarter Beaumaris kept pace with the Tigers, refusing to concede. Eventually, the Tigers run and accurate kicking to position provided too many opportunities for their forwards. The Tigers ran out 30 point victors and claimed back the Brett Marchant Cup.
Next week St Bedes/Mentone Tigers take on minor premiers Old Xaverians in the second semi final to be played at Elsternwick Park. With one win apiece in the home and away season, this promises to be a cracking match.
St Bede/Mentone Tigers Reserves had their chances but fell 6 points short of Beaumaris. The U19 South team lost their second semi final to Oakleigh and will play in next week’s preliminary final. The U19 Premier take on Old Xaverians on Sunday 1st September in what promises to be a hard fought second semi final battle.