Saints Green match report –Semi Final v Melbourne Uni

A glorious winter day greeted the Saints Green as they enthusiastically arrived at the picturesque University of Melbourne oval for their semi-final. The picket fences, the surrounding architecture has this scribe thinking maybe it was time to reach for the broomstick and start a quidditch tournament. For a 1st of August Day, and happy birthday to our equine friends, conditions were more spring like, although on inspecting the ground a layer of surface water was a nice reminder its still winter folks. Entering into the impressive doomsday /COVID-19 bunker that also doubles as the changerooms at this pristine ground, the energy, green energy that is, was high; DJ HAUS PARTY HOWARD had the tunes pumping, the green, blue and gold ribbons were proudly being affixed to pony tails and Captain Lupson was leading by example dying her green; although being colour blind, Charley’s hair was Pantone 19-1850 rather than the desired 362; either way a style sure to attract attention from umpires.

A one way ticket to the Grand Final was on offer for the winner of the contest, and right from the opening bounce the Saints Green showed they were keen to collect their boarding pass to Elsternwick Park. The Saints Green dominated the first phase of the match – Kehoe, Minahan, Augustus and Caroline Straford all featured prominently. Fiorentini was showing the wings that 500cc of Red Bull gives you as she tackled hard, Robinson collected the ball on half back – sprinting forward, her bright red boots scorching the ground as she moved. Despite the Saints dominance, Melbourne University opened the scoring kicking a behind – soon followed by a goal as the score line failed to reflect the dominance from the Green Machine. Jones was a welcome returning player, her tackling was textbook and she was rewarded with a free kick on the far wing sending the ball into the forward line, with the Saints looking ominous – the siren for quarter time sounded; Saints Green 0.0-0 v Melbourne University 1.1-7

During the quarter time break, Statler and Waldorf reminded the Saints Green of the importance of football basics – stick to tackling, shepparding, supporting teammates and moving the ball forward. Doble started the quarter with serious vigour, imposing herself on multiple contests from her wing position. Minahan was influencing the clearances with her ruck work – Murray a frequent beneficiary used the ball well as the Saints pressed forward. Lupson was impressing the umpires with her dashing hair do – Kehoe was winning the football and breaking tackles. The forward pressure from the Saints was immense, and a quick kick from Fionetini resulted in the first score for the day – a behind, The Green Machine much like the Holden Carr was revving along nicely. The resulting kick in by Melbourne University went to a contest where Mauri was able to pressure and win the ball, Robinson who had barely stopped moving arrived quickly in support receiving a handball and kicking deep into the forward line for Straford, C to collect and kick a wonderful goal. The Greens were really up and about now, the teamwork continued as handball link up was exceptional – even a rare handball by Augustes caught Coach Lewis by surprise. The teamwork was matched by tackling efforts of all the greens; with the next forward entry a long kick from Straford, A; found Augutes, who marked strongly near goals and was able kick the Saints second major. Melbourne University are a strong team – and sprung into attack, Condon was having none of this, repelling the opposition foray forward and handballing to a running Howard, M; Deng Lowe and Atkin also proved unpassable in defence, despite the pressure from the opposition.

Half time Saints Green 2.1-13 v Melbourne University 1.1-7.

Emerging from the half time bunker full of sugar and vitamin C; the Green Machine was ready to go! Kehoe wanted to make sure the team defence was ready for anything as Lucy accidently kicked the wrong way from the opening third quarter bounce, thankfully Lewis and Holden were suitably ready to deal with challenge. Murray pieced together a brilliant induvial effort to move the ball from the half back to the half forward – combining off the ground kicks, speed, one handed pick up and evasiveness. Atkin proved she was listening to the coaches as Ruby laid some impressive sheppererds for team mates. The link up work from Holden to Condon to Strafford C, was given the Bertocchi play of the day by Tim Straford – I am sure the girls are looking forward to their prized ham. Robinson continued to burrow in at every stoppage possible extracting the football and handing Jones, Howard, M, Lupson and Co. Atkin continued her higher work rate, winning a free kick and finding Mauri who was having a wonderful game in the forward line, Eleanor in turn found Straford, Alice in a handy position in the forward line – Alice’s kick narrowly missed, the resulting point may prove to be important. Howard, Bridie, showed she wasn’t just a ripping DJ, but also a forward pressure specialist as she worked hard to keep the ball close to the Saints goal; the Saints Green endeavour was seeing them win the football across the ground, another dominant quarter by the greens, three quarter time Saints Green 2.2-14 v Melbourne University 1.1-7

Carr exited the garage of the three quarter time huddle straight into winning the ruck contest, Jones and Lupson continued their brilliant roving. Deng was continuing her power game from defence, Stephenson, Pip was moved on to the ball and immediately had a positive impact, The Howard Sisters were impressing the coaches with their footy smarts and Augustes continued to be forward threat and presence. Murray was proving reliable wherever she played, Atkin passed to Straford, A who was a solid contributor forward of the ball, Reis was next in the chain of possessions, as Sophie shaked and baked her way out of trouble. Doble’s work rate continued, her Ventolin puffa getting a workout as Eliza made her way to the bench. With the game nearing the end, Melbourne University pressed hard looking for a goal, Howard, Molly worked her way into the danger spots to negate any threat from Melbourne University, Stepheson, Bella was having a game full of leadership and experience down back. The efforts across the ground to stop our opposition as they pressed included a great smother from Straford C and a series of repeat tackles by Mauri who won the ball despite being outnumbered and out sized in the contest; even giving off a handball to a speedy Robinson who legitimately had not stopped running the entire match. Final Siren sounded – the Greens were through to the Grand Final in their first season – what an effort. Saints Green 2.2-14 v Melbourne University 1.1-7.

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The Song was belted out with serious gusto, not just by the players on the day, but the whole squad who were also in attendance, dog walking, a loud and proud rendition of ‘Oh When the Saints’ echoed throughout the doomsday bunker – the coaches, team manager, trainer and even club President beaming with joy for the achievements of the Greens. The players told to enjoy their win, celebrate their success – and be ready for another challenge on the horizon – well done Green Machine, your best is the best in the competition, and we fear no one!!!

GOALS: Straford, C. Augustes 
BEST: Lupson, Condon, Deng, Doble, Robinson, Mauri – and all the team receiving a Grill’d voucher for their incredible team performance – Thanks to club sponsor Grill’d Camberwell and Tim Straford for organising.
 

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Saints Blue v Kew - at Kew

On a cool and breezy winters morning the blues took to the loft Kew heights to play the first game of the season at what seemed like base camp. Luckily though the Kew rooms were smaller than a shoe box which meant we were all huddled up like a bunch of penguins ready for the march out into the wild yonder to find our days feed of footy and goals.

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As the teams lined up for the first bounce it looked like the Kew line up had grown in height and stature since the last game we played against them and there was an air of anticipation on the bench on how much they may have also improved. Not to worry as what was about to unfold was one of the most special quarters of footy anyone was to witness. As soon as the first bounce was over it started to rain forward entries with the midfield of McDonough, S. Viti and Baker all pouncing on the footy at any given chance and providing the forwards with lace out passes that immediately made the opposition question as to why they even turned up. This brought Lupson into the game and when she wasn’t hitting the scoreboard, she made sure that Pattison and Thurman had the ball in their hands, with Thurman finding so much of the footy and kicking four first quarter goals. On the sidelines everyone was sure that she was going to have an acute case of leather poisoning and might need to quarantine herself from the rest of the team. 

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With Kew finding a late goal on the siren in the first quarter the coaches focus at the break address was on defence and no more goals as DJ was very worried about losing percentage. 
After such a huge first quarter the Saints took a bit more to get going in the second and Kew were pressing after their late goal. With the task at hand the defence of Bland, Betts and Sullivan locked Kew down and repelled everything came their way. This provided great link up play with through the middle of the ground with K. Viti, McBeth Japhcott and Merigan all providing plenty of run and carry which brought the game back onto the Saints terms.  As more goals started to flow through Russell, Nolan and Baker surging forward to hit the scoreboard as well. This provided the Saints a handy ten goal lead at half time and providing lots of high fives in the change rooms at the main break. 

With talk of hitting the ton on the scoreboard finally this week echoing through the change rooms prior to heading out the team where again reminded of defensive efforts as Kew snagged another junk time goal before halftime. This was all the incentive needed with the midfield providing plenty of attack on the footy with some strong work from Contaxis, Fone and Howard all providing great attacking movement of the ball into the forward line which had Vergano and Mounas running loops around the opposition and giving the Kew backs a big headache. Even though Kew pushed hard to get the ball back into the forward half every attempt was repelled with plenty of run of halfback with Langton, Jacka and Straford building a wall that would have stopped the great escape. The quarter saw the four goals sail through for the Saints and only one solitary point for Kew which pleased the coaches no end.

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With ton now firmly already on the board the focus was on how far we could extend the lead and get everyone in on the goal scoring action. With a few switch ups on the board at the last break saw Russell playing out of full forward and crashing through the pack every time she was near the ball. With the opposition battered and bruised she managed to snag a few last quarter goals. With the runoff halfback provided by the defence all day saw many finishing the game with more mud on them than was left on the ground.  None where more covered in mud than Croagh who looked like she had been rolled through the quagmire that was the centre of the ground. This didn’t seem to slow her down any as she finished the game full of running this could be either her fitness or just to keep warm from the cold mud pack she was sporting!

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In the wash up we had Pattison finish with 8 magnificent goals, Thurman with 5 sausage rolls, Baker, Lupson and Russell all finishing with a double and Nolan with one on the board as well. It was great all-round team performance with many playing in positions that they normally don’t play and get experience and build skills and game craft. Everyone should be proud of the massive effort to break the ton a result that should be well celebrated and deserved for the group that has been pushing to crack it for a while now.

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Saints Green v Monash Blues - at TH King

After travelling around the leafy suburbs, out Clayton and multiple trips to the trendy inner north of Melbourne; the Greens were finally home, at The King; their travelling gypsy days were on hold for a week as the Greens settled into comfy change rooms of TH King. The earlier matches had been somewhat dour affairs, both resulting in losses to SKOB, the pressure was on for the Saints Green to restore home ground pride. It was obvious that a few Greens had been enjoying newly opened Mr Deeds a bit on Friday night, with a few green faces and with a hickey spotted – some greens were in for a tough first quarter. The Greens also welcomed Chloe Betts for her first game of AFL; Chloe completing the trifecta of Betts for the Saints – gamble responsibly ladies.
Captain Lupson lead the Greens on the field, greeted by a feeble attempt of a guard of honour by the u/19 boys team – something to work on boys; the noticeable and sizable mud patch in the middle of the ground was not having the same appeal as skin treatment down on the Peninsula darling; many Greens already determined to avoid the area. The Saints Green dominated the first five minutes of the game, peppering the goals for little reward as the behinds piled up; it was obvious however that this was a much-improved Monash team. Slattery was enjoying her midfield time, Condon was showing impressive signs down back reading the play brilliantly; and with the next forward entry McIntosh found herself in the goal square all alone and with the ball right in front of her, whilst a simple kick off the ground would have sufficed, Tess swung her boot like a Viking doing the Can-Can; missing everything! Tess’s blushes were short lived though as she collected the ball from the ground and snapped truly for the Saints first. Straford was enjoying her time in the midfield, racking up multiple possessions; Kehoe kicked to Augustus who quickly kicked on to Howard; Bridie knows where the big sticks are and converted for the Saints second major. Robinson was a welcome returning Saint for the Greens; her long kick forward found fellow baker Reis (get around them on Instagram @sugarbiscuitsbymaddy and @cakes.by.soph), and ‘Sharpshooter Sophie’ was able to add to the Greens goal tally. Monash had lifted and moved the ball forward; Francis; who is loving her time in defence for the Saints – collected the bouncing football between her legs; an act more akin to a circus sideshow, but hey – it works; Deng received the hand ball from Katie, with Sunnie kicking to Murray – another who had started well; siren sounded for quarter time; Saints Green 3.5-23 v Monash 0.0-0.
With the first ball up of the second quarter, Minahan continued her ruck masterclass; once again hitting into the path of a Saint, Straford the recipient this time as the ball flew into the forward fifty for the Greens. A resulting stoppage was nicely placed for the Saints; 40 or so metres out, 45-degree angle. With the ball thrown up, Minahan knocked it to a flying Lupson, Charley showing the speed of an ambulance chasing barrister collected the ball, shrugged off two would be tacklers and charged into kick a sensational goal of AFLW standard. Her lack of celebration was disappointing and cited by coaches, Lupson has chosen to defend herself at an upcoming hearing. As the match continued, so too did the exemplar teamwork by the Greens; from the backline the ball moved seamlessly from Condon to Deng to Kehoe and then Straford marked strongly in a pack, completing a wonderful sequence; Prosecco Football indeed Coach Lewis! Betts was proving a worthy ruck option in the forward line, speedy Fiorentini was enjoying the forward flank, Murray continued to read the play well and deliver to teammates; on the bench Schache showed the excitement and energy to play that the coaches love to see and hear, as Alex squealed with delight as she returned to the field. Holden had warmed her engines nicely and was starting to have a serious impact on the game, Carr was out of the garage and into the ruck – offering valuable insight to the coaches; ‘It’s easier when you open your eyes’; it sure is Emily, it sure is. Deng was clearly not afraid of the mud as she charged through the thick black muck to collect the ball – others waiting of the edge of the mud hoping she would retrieve the ball so the game could continue. Minahan returned to the ruck and knocked to Robinson whose kick forward created a goal line mallee; Scottish Viking McIntosh grabbing the ball, but unable to shake off the multiple Monash Blues players who piled on top of her desperately trying to stop a goal.

Half Time: Saints Green 4.7-31 v Monash 0.0-0.

Following the Vitamin C injection through orange quarters and a sugar hit from the lollies – no sand this week, although a very disgusting unknown flavour saw coach Morley nearly vomit into a nearby bin; it was back to the game. Deng continued her solid form, like a rally car, Holden went sliding through the mud - the collected muck adding 10kg to her jumper; as well as free dinner for being the muddiest player, well done Gen!! Hayes took a strong mark down back, and Lupson had lifted her work rate; with Carr putting on a show room of ruck work. Mauri who had worked hard all game, kicked strongly forward, with Goals Augustes collecting the ball and kicking her first for the day. Schache demonstrated huge work rate in the forward line, her repeat second and third efforts appreciated by the gathering crowd. McIntosh collected the ball in the forward line, and instantly attracted 6 opposition players; Monash now very aware of the Scottish Viking. Condon continued to take intercept marks on the back line, Hayes and Deng were part of a series of link up plays; with Atkin looking to return to the field, Coach Lewis instructed her to complete the 1500m in the remaining 2 minutes of play; Ruby managing an impressive 1200m in that time according to her Garmin fit bit. Three Quarter time: Saints Green 5.7-37 v Monash 0.0-0.
The start of the last quarter saw the sun slowly disappear and a cold chill crawl across the TH King surface; unperturbed by the lowering temp. Prosecco Football from Condon, Straford, Augustus and Reis as they were involved in a link up series that warmed the coach’s hearts, sadly not their cold little toes. Kehoe continued to collect the football with ease, clearly enjoying the parental support on hand; Deng provided a great handball to Atkin who was on track to beat the four-minute mile. Robinson ran to bench with quality Cabernet Sauvignon pouring from her nose; Derick or was it Kei on hand to stem the bleeding. Straford moved the ball to Betts; the trifecta marked strongly; her kick on goal narrowly missed, but some exciting football lays ahead of the Trifecta – play the game not the odds. On a resulting forward entry, Howard marked on a tight angle; and neatly snapped the ball through the big sticks for her second of the day. Holden and Mauri continued to show good teamwork and a patched up Robinson was back on the ground; again putting her head where it shouldn’t be, as she smothered beautifully. Hayes opened a tackling clinic on the far wing, with multiple Monash players experiencing textbook tackles from Lucy. Condon ran to the bench dispensing quality 2002 Claret from her thigh and elbow; Kai again called into action. Monash surged forward in hope of their first score for the match, with the Monash player running on the outside of the mud, Hayes was forced to run through the thick black muck – displaying a movement that included twinkle toes and spirit fingers; part of Lucy’s desperate attempt to avoid mud splash back – Deng and Holden were able to help corral the runaway Monash player. As the ball found its way back into the Saints forward 50; Stephenson collected wonderfully, ran past several opponents, turned, and snapped for another possible point of the year. With time running out, Howard sensed a chance for a third goal, flattening her opponent as she chased a ball; ultimately the boundary line and then the siren beat Bridie. Full time Saints Green 6.13-49 v Monash 0.0-0
A wonderful performance from the Saints Green, the improvement from Monash was obvious, the Green Machine rolls on – the link up play, the releasing handball and run from behind are great to see from this highly talented team.

Goals: Howard 2, Augustes, Lupson, McIntosh, Reis
Best: Lupson, Murray, Straford, Condon, Deng, Atkin

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Saints Blue v Old Xavs - at Old Rigret

After the end of Lockdown 4,028 (ok I may be exaggerating a little), it was time to resume the season with the Blues hosting Old Xavs at home.
We were greeted with a beautiful morning and a boggy centre but everyone was excited about getting back on the field. There was also a significant milestone being achieved today – Claudia ‘Sully’ Sullivan, one of the icons of the SKOB community (and one of the original gangsters) was playing her 50th game.
In the pregame speech, Coach Kaz paid special tribute to Sully as one of the original Saints who always bought positivity, great energy and fun to the game.  Not to mention being the loudest on the footy field.  We also welcomed Foxy to the team and we looked forward to seeing the “Fox on the Run”.
After the last game against OX, we knew they would come out fighting despite their injury list almost being as long as a team sheet. Contaxis continued here dominance in the ruck and gave the midfield of Fone, S Viti and C McDonough first use of the footy.  The Saints had a few unsuccessful shots on goal and eventually Cropley found herself in front of the sticks and converted.  Playing off the back pocket – McBeth-Japhcott mesmerized the players around her, dodged 2 tackles and delivered the ball in to the forward 50. The ball ended up in the hands of Wedgewood who slotted through a beautiful long-range goal.  Russell found herself playing CH forward and not long after also found herself in front of the big sticks and converted. Mounas was running hard and despite having 2 goal assists in the first; had yet to open her account for the Saints.  Nolan was also having a blinder of a first quarter but also missed an opportunity to further increase the lead. 

In the final minute of the quarter, Vergano popped up and slotted one through.
Quarter Time SKOB 4-5-29 to OX 0-0-0

The second term started in the same vain as the first.  K Viti and Jacka were tackling hard in the midfield and stifled Old Xavs running game. On the rare occasions that the ball made its way to the OXs forward 50, Croagh, Bland and Langton put the pressure on.  Standing on the mark, Merigan smothered the ball, and the resulting passage of play saw Thurman slot her first goal of the afternoon. Fox was definitely on the run and was running hard across the wing and creating pressure in the mid field. Some clever stoppage work from Wedgewood resulted in a kick to Pattison who missed to the left.  Not long after the kickout, Cropley took possession in the pocket and rather than pull out her trade mark kick for goal, unselfishly passed it to Russell who slotted it for her second of the afternoon
 

Fox continued her run and Russell was unlucky not to have 3 to her name but missed to the right. At the next centre bounce C McDonough cleared the ball to Fox who delivered beautifully to Pattison who kicked her first for the day. The next forward play resulted from a Contaxis tap to the mids where K Viti took it on the wing and delivered it to Pattison who kicked after the siren and slotted it though for her second.
Half Time SKOB 8-9-57 Old Xav 0-0-0

After loading up on snakes and Gatorade and a rev up from the coaches, it was time to get back out there for the 2nd half.  We knew Old Xavs would throw some changes at us and we weren’t wrong.  The Blues started strongly with K Viti working hard to get in front of her player for a strong intercept mark that propelled the Blues in to attack again.  Cropley took her trademark shot from the pocket but hit the post.  The resultant kick from full back ended up in the hands of Bland who was taking the game on and running through the middle from CH Back.  Bland passed to C Mc Donough who handballed to the running K Viti who booted it long to Fox who was again on the run but lost het footing. The ball ended up in the hands of Vergano who slotted it through for the Blues only goal that quarter. Sullivan and R Betts continued to work together and propel anything that happened to find its way to the backline. 
Old Xavs managed to stem the goal kicking of the Blues to only 1 goal that quarter but back six played an equally impressive role and continue to prevent any score being posted for the opposition.
3Qtr Time SKOB 9-14-68 Old Xav 0-0-0

The final quarter saw the dominance of the Blues return and Sullivan was moved from the backline to the forward line to see if she could sneak a goal in her milestone game.  The Blues dominated the play with Fone and McBeth-Japhcott combining to deliver the ball to Pattison with the resultant kick dropping short. The kick out ended in a mark to Cropley who again unselfishly passed it to Pattison who wasn’t going to make the same mistake twice and slotted it through for her third. Back in the centre, Croagh was awarded a free kick and the overlapping run and carry from McBeth-Japhcott to C McDonough ended up in in the safe hands of Pattison who kicked truly for her fourth. Was this the day that the 4-goal hoodoo would be broken??
 

It wasn’t long before the Sherrin was back in her hands after a beautiful smother from Merigan and strong tackling from Fone. Mounas who still hadn’t managed to open her account for the Blues but did manage to run 6km during the game, passed effortlessly to Pattison who finally broke her four- goal hoodoo and slotted through her fifth.
In the final minutes of the game after the mids had again cleared the ball and delivered it to the forward line, Sullivan laid a strong tackle and was awarded a free kick about 25 metres out from goal. Was this going to be the fairy ending to her 50th game but it was not to be after she kicked in to the player on the mark.  The resulting play though saw the ball back in the hands of Pattison who kicked truly and finished with 6, entrenching her at the top of the goal kicking ladder.
It was another dominant performance from the Blues sitting second on the ladder with a percentage of in excess of 800 and the best defensive line in the competition.
It was a great way to celebrate the achievement of such an icon of the club.

Final Score SKOB 13-19-97 Old Xavs 0-0-0
Goal Kickers Pattison 6, Russell 2, Vergano 2, Cropley 1,Thurman 1, Wedgewood 1
Best: Pattison, McDonough, McBeth-Japcott, Russell, K Viti, Fox
 

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Saints Green Match Report v West Brunswick

Heading out to the trendy hipster inner suburbs of Melbourne was once again on the cards for the Saints Green, sadly the normally bustling grounds of West Brunswick were eerily quiet aside from the odd dog walker, as footy returned with a number of COVID restrictions. And the excitement was high and obvious for Saints Green, faces of players featured beaming smiles of excitement and on average about 4kg of bling to be removed pre match.

Lowe had led a positively enthusiastic warm up and headed over to win the toss, with a Kermit quote delivered on the ground – the Saints Green were ready and rearing to go. Fiorentini, a stalwart of defence for seasons at the Saints – headed to her normal defensive position, before being altered to the fact by the coaches that she was required in the forward line – the speed Remi displayed was only bettered later in the day, when a much needed bathroom run caused by a morning coffee, saw Remi break the 10sec 100m time during the second quarter.

Minahan won the hit out, with Straford collecting the ball; a theme that would continue during the day, Alice kicking the ball off the outside of her boot – showing the skill of the famous Straford name at the Saints. The forward pressure was high from the Saints Green; Mauri, Howard and Holden pressed and tackled hard, and soon enough the Green Machine was on the board with a behind. While all the action was going on, there was action as always on the sidelines, and not just the heckling between injured Saints Augustes and McIntosh; Stephenson, Pip; had forgotten her mouthguard and was mixing the thin plastic from the chemist in boiling water before moulding on to the pearly whites – never a dull moment in the Greens. Back to the on field action, Hayes was once again putting on a tackling clinic; and was rewarded – a rare occurrence with the umpires on hand. Francis and Schache were proving themselves to worth additions to the Saints, their pressure and work rate was brilliant across half forward. Following the ongoing forward pressure from the saints, with multiple behinds added to the score – it wasn’t too long before Straford collected the ball and kicked truly for the Saints. Any effort from West Brunswick was pushed back, the leadership of Lowe and Stephenson x 2, down back was proving invaluable; as the game was played in the Saints forward half, any contest outside our forward line was met with a steely determined resistance – the best example was Doble; as Eliza found herself in a 3v1 on the wing – with no right to win the ball, she did just that and handballed to a running Deng; Coach Lewis happy to see Prosecco Football back in action. With the ball moving freely into the forward line, Straford marked strongly; he resulting kick never looked like missing and it was two in a quarter for Alice and the Greens. The Greens energy was high; Atkin and Deng tackled fiercely, Reis so fired up on arriving at the interchange bench, asked to go back on stating; ‘I will end that girl’ – speaking of her annoying opponent; Coaches Morley and Lewis, fearing that Sophie might actually deliver on that promise erred on the side of caution and kept Sophie off until next quarter. A ball up near the middle of the ground saw Carr hit to a flying Condon who kicked forward for Slattery, Darcy showed poise as she converted for a goal; a truly dominant quarter by the Green Machine came to an end. Quarter time Saints Green 3.5-23 v West Brunswick 0.0-0.

As the second quarter started, the wind shifted; blowing significantly towards the Magpies goals; the Greens showed little concern for the forces of nature however as Atkin took a beautiful intercept mark; the resulting kick to Hayes and then Doble had Coach Lewis popping the Prosecco. Ward was once again dominating the wing position, her in and under clearance and handballs were Liberatore esk, Condon started using the ‘Don’t Argue’ move like it was the last day possible for them – dishing them out with reckless abandon, Fiorentini was showing energy that few could match. A period of play saw forward movement through Minahan, Reis, Francis, Howard, Schache, Doble – it was a thing of beauty; but sadly not one left footer amongst them. Cullen’s defensive efforts across half back were inspiring and well applauded by coaches. As the forward pressure piled on, Reiss soccered a clever goal off the ground; although was reprimanded at half time for not enough celebrating; a goal like that needed something more – Coach Morley offering a few helpful examples of over the top celebrating. Hayes continued her fierce tackling and Kehoe took a gutsy mark her dad could only dream of taking. Half time Saints Green 4.6-30 v West Brunswick 0.0-0

After selecting a snake covered in sand from the lolly box and half time Coach Lewis demanded more, Minahan heeded those inspiring words and went on a tackling rampage in the third quarter as the greens continued their domination, Stephenson – Bella, moved to the forward line, tackling strongly she was rewarded with a free kick and a lump to her jaw for Derek to inspect. The link up play continued, Kehoe collecting a ground ball to hand to Condon, whose kick forward was marked by Straford. Alice, put everything in to the set shot, kicking the leather off the ball as it sailed out of bounds, to rest amongst the gum trees; it was actually a bloody impressive kick. Lupson, who wasn’t sporting her usual manicured paws lifted her work rate, her clearances from stoppages was a sight to behold. Kehoe had lifted as well in the third, perhaps inspired by the sandy snake or her dad’s complete lack of football talent, who knows, but her ability to steal the footy off her opponent was risky given the close proximity of the juvenile detention facility. Ward laid out several of the best bumps seen by the coaches, Hayes and Deng again fighting it out for the tackle count honours. Howard took a strong mark in the forward line, and her retinue for the set shot rivalled that of Matthew Lloyd; sadly the football that had soaked up three quarters of ground water proved too heavy as a minor score was recorded. Carr had taken over from Minahan, and was proving to be a V8 Supercar, knocking the ball into the path of Condon. Three Quarter time Saints Green 4.7-31 v West Brunswick 0.0-0.

The start of the last quarter had a sense of déjà vu- as Fionentini once again found herself at the wrong end of the ground from where she was named – but maybe then again she was just showing off the speed at which she can move from one end to the other? Although when Condon collected a perfect ruck hit from Minahan and ran the wrong way, completing a U turn before any damage was done; the coaches did wonder if perhaps we need to discuss which way we are kicking at each break. Viking McIntosh who had enjoyed her assistant coach role for the first three quarters, upped the ante, appointing herself ultimate supreme warlord coach, taking over the magnet movement for the final quarter, as Tess implemented the ‘make a wish foundation’ approach to player positioning. Coach Morley took a Valium and went and sat in the sun. The pressure from the Saints Green continued and the ladies displayed a strong ability to run he game out, their relentless forward pressure was immense. Howard took a quality mark against the boundary near goal, Bridie showed serious match awareness when she centred to a free Minahan who kicked truly for the Saints to extend their lead. Lowe kept leading from the front, displaying 2nd and 3rd efforts to win the ball; with a rare foray forward for West Brunswick a goal seemed likely until Fiorentini displayed her lioness speed once again, pouncing on a stray gazelle. Cullen again showed her serious football ability as she tackled hard and transition the ball from the backline to the wing. Strafford, Reis and Mauri were all working hard up forward as Johnson collected a loose ball and kicked a much deserved goal. As the final seconds counted down, first gamer Francis asked, ‘What is your song?’ with Coach Lewis replying ‘Our Song is the Saints one, and it’s your song now Katie’; Welcome to the club Kate. Final Score Saints Green 6.8-44 v West Brunswick 0.2-2.

A wonderful team performance, a game were every player had a genuine positive impact; so great to have footy back and to see the smiling faces of the Saints Green players back on a Saturday. We fear no team.

Best: Minahan, Straford, Ward, Condon, Doble, Carr
Goals: Straford 2, Slattery, Reis, Minahan, Johnson

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Saints Gold V Kew - Round 7

Spaghetti Oval was back in action and the crowd was gathered to see, no doubt a future club legend, Sophie Straford (I believe that’s with one F), returning to the field for the mighty Blues. The Golds were without their especializado midfield couch, R. Bowles, who in an extreme act of defiance refused to coach this week due to the lack of canteen facilities at the venue. Bold move which begs one to ask ‘will it pay off?’ Only time will tell, but my guess is, no, next week there will still be no steamed dim sims at Righetti. 

This week saw the addition of some modern tech, with 5 GPS trackers being supplied to see the stats of some of girls as they run out four quarters, leaving the data hungry coaching crew eagerly awaiting the results. Pre-game the crew embraced the renewed warm up pitch out the back, fresh from being a car park for the Level Crossing Removal Project. As a result of the required reinstatement work, which is understood to be the majority of the ~$90m price tag for the Toorak Road works, it’s surface looks ready for the eagerly anticipated sequel to Crackerjack due to its bowling green carpet like surface. Elsewhere, T. Straford (also with one F) was up and about, as he completed his 250th task for the day before the Golds had even hit the ground. Perhaps missing his morning golf isn’t good for the great man as his energy levels seemed extra high, even for him. 

When the game got under way out on the non warm up pitch, T. Nicolls started strong as she set the scene for her style of play for the day, one that controlled the last line of defence. She found herself in a prime position on several occasions, taking many a mark across half back before sending the ball back to the Saints advantage. The contest with fierce, seeing Osman perform some aerial acrobatics in a contest that resulted in a nasty looking landing, but thankfully she bounced on impact and all was fine. Mendel continued her current routine of growing an inch a week and was making her presence felt. The Rolls Royce was turning the engine over nicely, getting plenty of early touches to let her presence be known. With one of the umpires taking great pleasure in a ball up by really savouring the moment, it was a dangerous to create a stoppage in certain sections of the field as he consumed a solid 30-40 seconds readying himself to loft the ball skyward. Brown, forced to wear a different uniform bearing the no.40 instead of the usual no.14 due to a case of ‘forgetting to clean it’ was, like her dirty uniform elsewhere, running amuck when given a chance to compete body on body in a ruck contest or anywhere elsewhere. Whilst the grind by the Saints was superb and the forward line pressure immense, the score at the break was 0.2 - Bowles’ still missing donut. 

Kew lurched forward to begin the second quarter and quickly troubled the score keepers by kicking a hotly debated point as a hacked ball from the goal line met a B. Doyle lunging hand. The GoPro’s on the goal posts mustn’t have been up to standard, not unlike the AFL’s Arc, leaving the umpires to go old school and talk it out. Following some questionable recreations and interpretive dances of the play, which seemed aide the process, the original call stood and a point was awarded. 
S. Cameron was up and about, creating good options outside the forward fifty and being rewarded for doing so. The Saints were poised to score and when the moment arrived, it was worth the wait as it almost brought a tear of joy to the coaches eyes, well at least one of them.
R/B. Joyce tapped to J. Joyce who found the Whiz (formally known as L/E. Wardlaw). This was her moment to excel and excel she did, as she put down the hammer in classic Whiz style, making it look like she was in cruise control while clearly pulling away from her opponents. She composed herself before slotting a brilliant goal from about 35 out. Much to the coach’s disgust, the team didn’t cause a huge scene by celebrating the goal with great gusto, but I guess it’s nice to have things to improve on next week. It wasn’t long after this that a classy lace out kick from J. Joyce found S. Cameron as she took mark close to the ground about 40m out. Though her set shot would fall short, all was not lost as, reading the play to perfection, G Byrne took an easy chest mark and would convert from the spot showing great poise in the gusty conditions. Elsewhere on the field, E. Hay was her usual elite self. Working through the midfield and defence, putting pressure on at every contest and laying some superb tackles in an effort to chase the silver medal in the VAFA total tackles - as Doyle has already cracked 10, 000 for the year, everyone else is striving for second spot. 
2.4 to 0 1 at the interval 

During the break Head Coach, Tommy Purcell, spoke with great pride about the first half pressure and performance and keep it short as they even found time to head to their line coaches. More importantly, the sweets were about, with a hotly contested competition, almost as strong as the one on the field, between The Natural Confectionary Company and Allen’s. Winner still TBC. 
Third quarter - the Saints started hot, with Brown, the Whiz and Byrne instantly getting involved. Cameron marked strongly from a nice forward fifty entry by Mclinden, before confidently kicking a beautiful point from the dead pocket as the ball rammed into the woodwork about 5/6’s of the way up the post. Moments later, The Whiz saw her opportunity as she outsmarted her opponents (yes, plural) by tapping the ball to herself, breaking a tackle, displaying her speed and nailing a superb second goal for the day (2 minute mark of 3rd quarter on the tape). Casual as you like, she brushed off the excitement of her peers just like she brushed off her opponents, with ease. 
At this point things were looking very good for the Saints, but as is often the case, this is where the opposition found some fire in their belly and took it up to the girls, scoring the next two goals despite some great pressure form the mids and defence. Both umpires seemed to enjoy using a handball motion when paying a holding the ball decision, so from the sidelines it appeared that we were being rewarded for somebody handballing. Presumably the players could hear an instruction to go with this so that it was less confusing for them. Gillett Fusion continued to be the reliable razor of choice in the backline for all those hard to reach places, as she stood true whenever required to do so. I hear she had a party to get to that she was unsure of what dress to wear, thankfully this didn’t seem to impact her headspace during the match. 
3.6 to 2.2 

With some SKOB aligned VFWL stars in the stands and the contest really heating up out on the oval, Head Coach, Tommy Purcell, delivered another stirring three quarter time raz up. With the girls set and the final term was upon us, who would stand up to the pressure?
Mclinden started the quarter strong by using her pace, finding the ball out the back of packs and running wide to find space. The forward line pressure was superb, with several tackles being laid by the likes of Cameron, Osman and Cropley which allowed Mendel to use her now full 6 foot 5 frame to her advantage and pull down some good grabs. This was before she decided to play things a little differently. Tired of the traditional approach at smothering a ball using ones’ hands, Asha thought she would use her head, literally, sending the ball on its merry way via her face in the goal square back over the behind line. One of the more dramatic power plays by Asha, but it was an impressive point all the same. The Saints appeared to be in control as they peppered away at the scoreboard, Coaches even high fived after they thought a goal was scored by Camo, only to be proven wrong. Who would have thought that being a hundred plus metres from the goal line, on an angle, wouldn’t be the best place to judge if a kick was touched or not!? J. Joyce had an entry in the ‘almost a great goal’ category as she crumbed nicely and kicked almost accurately, it was probably one of the better no scores of the day. Brown fought well in the fourth, with several inside 50 kicks from contests. After Osman put in her third effort in that particular play, she managed to push the ball deep allowing Cameron to pound her opponent, who earlier had given her a spray – never trash talk Cameron. She was rewarded with a holding the ball call only 15 out and made no mistake by kicking true for her first for the day to see the Saints run out the game 4.9 to 2.3 

Kew were gallant in defeat and put up a superb fight worthy of our respect. Hats off to them. 
6 point plays: L. Wardlaw 2, S. Cameron, G. Byrne

Fighting for a burger: L. Wardlaw, T. Nichols, B. Doyle, E. Hay, J. Joyce, A. Mendel 

***Let it be noted that there was no dad styled ‘Kew’ related puns***

 
Now at the mid-way point, we take the turn 6 and 1. Make sure we get to training slightly early to work on the goal kicking as we need to turn that 4.9 in to 9.4. 
Basic Mid Season Stats 
For - 33 goals, 58 behinds, 256 points – third highest total score in league. Against - 15 goals, 11 points, 101 points – lowest/best in league. 

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Round 7 - SKOB Saints V Kew Bears – Righetti Oval

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The Saints returned to their traditional home; Righetti Oval.  It was a gorgeous day with the sunshine streaming across the ground with the calls for sunscreen heard in the sheds.  The theme of the day was Respect with the pregame speech delivering some key messages:
Earn Respect, Give Respect, Show Respect.
The Blues welcomed Sophie Straford (Golds Captain) to the Blues returning from injury, with Soph delivering a rousing speech in the pre-match huddle; “it’s a great fricken day to be a SKOBBER”

The Blues won the toss, kicking to the change room end and it wasn’t long until the Blues hit the scoreboard. Contaxis continues with her strong form this season winning the tap.  The midfield crew of Guss, Snell and S Viti driving the ball forward with Wedgewood drifting forward to slot the opening goal from the pocket with Pattison shepparding the ball through. The tackling pressure of the Blues was intense with 4 holding the ball decision being awarded in the 4 minutes if the game.

It wasn’t long after that Pattison opened her account with a kick off the ground. Elise ‘everywhere’ Thurman presented well and didn’t let up and at the 8 min mark opened her account after a beautiful clearance from Guss.  The next clearance resulted in the most celebrated point for the season with K Viti having a shot from the pocket – it certainly looked like a goal from the coach’s box.  By the end of the first quarter the breeze kicked up but it didn’t stop the drive of G Lupson and A Bloom in the forward delivering the ball to Pattison for her second conversion for the day.

Quarter Time: SKOB Blues 4-5-29 to Kew FC 0-0-0

The second quarter started with the same intensity of the first with the Snell, Langton and M Howard keeping the pressure on in the midfield. C McDonough spun through a tackle and delivered the ball to Pattison but the wind took hold and ball sailed through for a behind.  The kickout from the Bears ended up with C McDonough who kicked truly to open her account of the day.  The Blue backline were holding strong with C Straford enjoying a chat with her opponent and Nolan and Bland enjoying the sunshine. Croagh and Mounas were working hard pushing forward with McBeth-Japhcott pushing forward from the back pocket to get her hands on the ball.  Vergano was showing her dominance with a clearance off the pack, a handball to S Straford and a delivery to Pattison seeing her slot her 3rd for the day.   Shortly after Blooms running play sees the Blues convert another.  The Blues are dominating play with the undermanned Kew Bears looking a little exposed. The Blues weren’t quite finished with a beautiful play from Nolan to Thurman resulting in a slick handball to S Straford delivering the ball to Bloom for another successful shot on goal. A rare foray into the Kew forward line saw the Blues defence hold strong with Russell and Betts linking for a clearance out. Unfortunately, due to a clash of head, Thurman would be ruled out of the game with concussion and sat the rest of the game out on the bench.

Half time SKOB Blues 8-10-58 to Kew FC 0-0-0

The magnets were thrown around at half time with Russell being thrown into the forward line, Bland to the middle and Langton to the defensive line.  This had immediate effect Russell scoring in the first few minutes of the second half. The next bounce saw Guss continue her dominance in the midfield and Langton playing attacking footy off the defensive line. Bland was relishing her role in the midfield and busted through the lines delivering the ball to Guss who offloaded Vargano. Cherry showed her versatility in the forward line presenting strongly and converting for the Blues. G Lupson continued her strong form with several goal assists delivering a beautiful kick to S Straford who converted her first. G Luspon was instrumental during the afternoon and played the team game with goal assists whilst also adding to her goal kicking tally. The wind continued to play havoc with the ball and the Blues again peppering the goals and accuracy (and the strong breeze) wreaking havoc. 

3rd Qtr SKOB Blues 11-14-80 to Kew FC 0-0-0

The midfield and forwards continued their dominance and the backline when tested, held strong. Pattison and G Lupson are a formidable forward line adding to their tallies, finishing with 4 and 3 goals respectively.  
The Blues dominated the game across all lines showing that SKOB continues to be a force to be reckoned with.  Voting is proving extremely tough every week with so much talent on show.
At the halfway mark of the season, the Blues are sitting 2nd on the ladder with a percentage of 655 and a big game at home against West Brunswick next week. 

Final Score SKOB Blues 13-17-97 to Kew FC 0-0-0

Goals: M Pattison 4, G Lupson 3, C Russell 1, S Straford 1, A Bloom 1, C McDonough 1, E Wedgewood 1, E Thurman
Best: Guss, K Viti, Wedgewood, Mounas, Russell, G Lupson 

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Saints Green v West Brunswick Round 7

As we welcomed round 7 of the 2021 season, we also welcomed a new concept for the Saints in 2021, players missing out – for the first time, all three SKOB Saints teams fielded a full complement of talented Saints – sadly meaning some players missed out – such is the strength of women’s football at SKOB.

The Greens headed to the trendy inner suburb of West Brunswick, but before hitting the road, there were multiple panicked phone calls as our super team manger Michelle, who was out buying lollies for the Greens half time replenishment, had also locked her keys inside the house – along with the kit bag and the trainers bag. Coach Lewis taking his Tonka Truck down to collect what he could from T Strafford.

Fortunately diplomatic relations between SKOB and West Brunswick are at an all-time high, when prior to the match we asked the magpies if we could borrow a few rolls of strapping tape, we were amazed and grateful to be presented with a fully stocked trainers bag (appropriately in green) on wheels; and second request for a couple of footballs to help with warm up – was also met with a smile and equipment, as again our accommodating host was proving to be more welcoming than an AirBnB host on the peninsula.

As Statler and Waldorf completed their relaxed pre match routine, the Saints ran on to the ground full of positive Pantone 362 energy lead by Captain Lowe. The opening bounce was a thing of beauty, almost like a set play – rucking superstar Minihan hit into the path of Strafford (Just like we had rehearsed minutes earlier), Alice brushed off a tackler and kicked into the Saints forward line – an early show of the dominate play the Saints would present for the match. As the ball bounced between the respective half backs, Stephenson, Bella showed her ability down back, Stephenson sister Pip then proved two Stephenson’s are better than one as she joined the dominating half back play. Robinson – who had brought a small army of supporters, ‘cause it helps me play better’ – was living up to the statement as she tackled hard. The ball found its way into the Saints forward line, a couple of smart off the ground kicks threatened the goals, only to just brush the post, Reiss immediately calling for a call review or an inquiry into the thickness of the padding. The forward line pressure continued from the Saints, Strafford kicked long into the forward line, Howard collected the ball, waltz past a number of magpies snapping a ball 5kg heavier thanks to soaking up the morning dew from the oval for a wonderful point – another contender for point of the year. Condon was enjoying her midfield time, Hayes put on a tackling clinic on the grandstand side – numerous magpies volunteered to join. Our defence was solid, Lewis Fionentino and Davys putting pressure on their opponents, resulting in a few behinds from West Brunswick. Atkin, was enjoying her time on the railway wing – marking solidly and kicking long to Doble and in turn to Holden in a sequence of play described as ‘Prosecco football’ by Coach Lewis. Jones was welcomed back and immediately won a free kick as she burrowed in tackled relentlessly; Robinson continued her impressive first quarter as she collected the ball off the ground and kicked forward. Quarter time Saints Green 0.2-2 v West Brunswick 0.3-3.

The sun was well and truly on its way in the highest point of the sky as we started the second quarter in pristine football conditions. Atkin charged in for the centre bounce, Minihan again hitting to saints advantage, Condon joining the midfield dominance on display by Saints Green. With the first foray forward, Howard smartly snapped the ball into the path of Reis – nearly a Loreto play of the day Dr Stevens would have applauded in her candy stripe blazer; sadly the ball just wouldn’t sit right for Sophie and the West Brunswick defence swopped in. Deng down back was winning any contested ball in her area and the capacity crowd; including a celebrity appearance by Harriet Gaffey, remarked in amazement that this is Sonny’s first season of football. Schache created some confusion and humour on the bench – after being told she was going back on to the forward line, her reply of ‘Oh… was that where I was?’, followed by ‘what’s it called… a pocket?’ brought smiles to both coaches dials. Back on the ground, the releasing handball at packs by the Greens was opening up the play nicely, Lewis tackled opponents with serious vigour, Merrigan took a strong mark on the wing and kicked long into the forward line, Jacka laid a strong tackle and the quick kick forward was marked by Mauri, whose subsequent goal was a much deserved reward for the Saints dominance. Fionentino tackles continued, Lupson came running off with a sore manicured hand that thankfully wasn’t too bad. Carr reversed herself into a smart spot in the forward line to take a strong mark, the resulting point just didn’t have enough air to avoid the desperate hands up from West Brunswick. Condon continued to tackle fiercely and Merrigan’s repeated efforts in the forward line was adding to the Saints Green dominance. As the ball bounced into the forward line, a courageous Jones collected and was immediately fairly tackled and brought to ground. This was to be the last play for the game – the care and attention provided by all – especially the West Brunswick Football Club, who amongst their members in attendance at AJ’s side included a doctor and nurse who diligently stayed with AJ, supporting her neck as we waited for the ambulance. AJ is SKOB Saints royalty as we all know – clearly Ambulance Victoria recognise this as well, sending the paramedic on motorbike as well as a fully kitted ambulance – lights sirens and all. We look forward to welcoming AJ back to football when appropriate and placing her magnet in the midfield where she belongs.
We thank again the West Brunswick football club, all the volunteers for supporting our football club during a tough day – a draw the end result for the match. The football played by the Greens for first class and again – we fear no one.

Votes
6 for West Brunswick, 5 Ambulance Victoria, 4, Community Football and 3, 2 & 1 for AJ
Negative 6 for the bloke who burnt the coffee beans
Goals: Mauri