Nitas, Friars explode, JOCs run passed Turtles

UHS-VU’s venture into Division 2 for the first time in 10 years has commenced seamlessly as they recorded their second win from as many games with a 39-point victory over Yarra Old Grammarians at Brens Oval. The Vultures failed to kick a goal in the first term but hit their straps with 13 to six for the remainder of the game. James Healey kicked two goals in a BOG display for the Vultures and James McGee kicked three in his first game for the year. Rory Harbeck top-scored with four goals for the Bushrangers as they fall to fifth spot on the ladder, two below the Vultures.

Old Paradians solidified second spot on the Division 2 ladder as they defeated MHSOB by 59 points in a blowout at Melbourne High. The Raiders nailed seven goals to one in the opening half and, despite going goalless in the third, kicked another seven to four as they finished slightly stronger than their opponents. Luke Grech starred and was named best afield for the Raiders, while Brad Jordan did his utmost for the Unicorns with an impressive display.

Emmaus St Leo’s registered their first win for 2018 with a 25-point victory over Power House at Ross Gregory Oval. The Animals trailed by four points after a tight opening half, but kicked away with six goals to one in the third. Newbegin Baxter led the way as the best player on the ground for the Animals and teammate Tom Birkett top-scored with four goals. Fiachra O’Deasmhunaigh was a standout for the House as they fall to two straight losses and sit eighth on the ladder, two spots below the Animals.

St John’s hit the winner’s column for 2018 as they defeated Eltham Collegians by 53 points at Thomas Carroll Reserve. Six goals to one in the first quarter set the scene for the JOC’s victory as Aaron Thornton was at his best with seven majors across the day. Travis Hendy was best afield for the JOCs while Troy Jinnette fought valiantly for the Turtles. The JOCs are now fourth on the ladder with a percentage of 141.67% while the Turtles are struggling in 10^th.

Five fourth-quarter goals to Michael Nitas helped Whitefriars to a commanding 81-point victory over Bulleen Templestowe at Whitefriars College. Leading by 26 points ath three quarter time, the Friars exploded in the fourth with nine unanswered goals – five of which were from Nitas’ boot as he finished with six for the day. Hewitt Murray was named best afield for the top-of-the-table Friars while Leith Wallis and Darcy Price impressed for the ninth-placed Bullants.