The Saints were off to a solid start through clearance work and smart ball movement, but despite having plenty of possession, Strathmerton were able to sneak out to a 21 point lead at quarter time.
Strathmerton came out firing in the second term and didn’t let up for the rest of the game, though unfortunately the score line did not reflect the Saints’ effort.
The captain duo of Angus Coldwell and Toby Dalgliesh led from the front, both pushing against a flying Strathmerton team all day but not giving an inch.
Coldwell was hard at every contest and kicked an impressive two goals from the midfield.
Zeke Carruthers has picked up where he left off last season. The defender doesn’t know how to give up, whether the Saints are up by 100 or down by 100.
He puts his body on the line for impressive spoils and goal saving tackles.
Jacob Bartlett was also fearless in his pursuit of the football as he was continuously commended for his second, third and fourth efforts by the supporters and the coaches.
The Berrigan players can hold their heads high despite their defeat as they showed passion and dedication to both the game and the jumper they wear.
The Saints will look to improve this week against Rennie.
Final score: Berrigan 5.2 (32) def by Strathmerton 22.13 (145).
Reserves:
The Berrigan Reserves made the trip to Strathmerton looking to continue their red hot start to the season.
However, they met a well-drilled Strathmerton team and the Berrigan battlers couldn’t keep up on the scoreboard.
Aaron Burley was instrumental down back as he took care of his own man and also drifted across to make an impact as a ‘third man up’ in marking contests.
Young Ryan Thornton once again showed no fear as he goes hard at the footy and never takes a backward step.
Fergus Beischer impressed in his first game for the Saints, and was another player who didn’t back down in the contest and showed what a handy inclusion he will be for the Saints.
Matt Ross again showed he can be a ‘plug and play’ asset playing roles in the forward line, midfield and defence.
Berrigan players were disappointed to see their first loss of the year but still extremely optimistic about the potential this side still has to unlock.
Final score: Berrigan 1.0 (6) def by Strathmerton 14.13 (97).
Fourths:
Another win on the board for what looks to be another very impressive Berrigan Saints fourths team.
The young Saints travelled to Strathmerton to take on another competitive side, but it seemed to be no issue for the Saints as they remain undefeated with no signs of slowing down.
Kaleb Litchfield had a terrific outing down back as he has stepped up this year being one of our older players. Along with Kaleb’s new found leadership comes a run of impressive form, whether it’s the last line of defence or pushing forward.
Jack Phillips was up and about for his first game of the season after sustaining an injury in the offseason. His perseverance hasn’t gone unnoticed as he handled the long road back from injury with hard work and dedication, culminating in an impressive first game back, even kicking a goal.
Jordan Swann and Jack Magill once again proved to be the premier midfield duo in the competition with both also showing ability in the forward line, scoring seven goals between them.
Zavier Binns had an excellent game at half back using his foot skills and deceiving speed to play almost as an extra midfielder.
It was a great performance across the whole ground and showed this team is well put together, with everyone doing their part.
Final score: Berrigan 10.7 (67) def Strathmerton 4.3 (27).
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