St Bedes/Mentone kick off their 2022 campaign with a Bang

Eliza Wright

A glorious day for football set the tone for a competitive round 2. St Bedes/Mentone came out guns blazing with a 54-point win over Williamstown and an arm wrestle down at Holmes-Todd Oval between AJAX and Fitzroy fell the way of The Jackers. Beaumaris were victorious on their home turf in their contest against Old Carey as The Uni Blacks continued their success in their win over De La.

Fresh off a bye, St Bedes/Mentone were raring to go, beginning their 2022 season with a remarkable win over Williamstown CYMS. Despite a fantastic effort from CY’s Taite Sharpe down back and tireless work from Dean Cutajar in the ruck, the physicality of the Tigers saw them dominate the stoppages and ultimately, the scoreboard. An outstanding performance from Brayden O’Toole saw him lead the goalkicking with 6, while young gun Nick Grech put on a show in his senior debut. St Bedes/Mentone will have their work cut out for them as they face the Uni Blacks in round 3 as the CY’s prepare for their ANZAC Day clash against The Roys, taking place on Monday the 25^th of April.

Down at Banksia reserve, the might of Beaumaris proved too strong for Old Carey taking home a 68-point victory. Some early injuries for the Sharks sent Will Skinner forward, proving him a versatile asset for Beauy kicking 3. Robert Cathcart utilised his experience and ended the game with 5 goals 5. The Panthers put up a good fight with Tim Newton and Alex Mcdonald working hard all day, moving the ball well into their forward 50. However, their lack of scoreboard conversion allowed Beaumaris to run away with the game. Joel Di Natale and Matthew Petering continued to show exceptional leadership and talent. After the break, Old Carey returns home to take on Old Haileybury as Beauy hopes to keep their streak against De La Salle.

Elsternwick played host to a close battle between the Roys and the Jackers, Fitzroy took advantage of the wind in the first quarter kicking 3 early goals. AJAX got to work to get themselves back in the game resulting in a single point margin at the halftime siren. With the win still up for grabs in the last ten minutes, the Jackers were able to dig in and take home the four points. A well fought effort from Rhys Seakins and Darcy Lowrie across Fitzroy’s half backline, showed composure and determination as they spoiled numerous forward entry attempts. A critical goal from Brad Caplan in the final term saw AJAX take control. The Jackers showed great confidence and hunger for the footy, highlighted by defensive talent Adam Caplan and his consistent attempt at a record-breaking torpedo. AJAX will enjoy a two-week break as they face the upcoming long weekend and a bye in round 3. Fitzroy have their fingers crossed for their first win of the season as they face Williamstown on ANZAC day.

The Uni Blacks once again showed that they mean business in their 41-point victory over De La Salle. What began as a close game ended in triumph for the Blackers with Brendan Dess and Louis Vescio working hard in the forward line. A great way to celebrate Hugh Curnow’s 100^th game whose accurate and powerful left shoe proved to be a catalyst in their victory. Although a disappointing result for De La, the speed and agility of Adrian Indovino and Rob Ritson is to be commended. Looking forward to Round 3, De La faces Beaumaris down at the aquarium. The Uni Blacks face a tough opponent in St Bedes/Mentone. As both are strong and tactical sides, this will be a game to keep your eye on.