Last week the OMs played Old Haileybury, which last year played in A Section. This week the OMs took on the other relegated side, St. Bernards, which sat in second place on the B Section ladder. However, with a good record at St. Bernard’s, and incessant rain on the day of the game, the OMs had a good opportunity to score an upset win.

 

The OMs matched St. Bernard’s well in the first quarter, with goals to Pete Kennon and Seccull. Yet again though, the second quarter proved to be the OMs’ hoodoo quarter, with the Dark Blues being unable to score a goal, whilst their opponents added five goals to essentially determine the outcome of the game.

 

It was not for a lack of endeavour that the OMs failed to goal in the second quarter. Their commitment could not be doubted. It was in the third quarter though that the OMs’ endeavour bore fruit. With Hawkins finding himself in the unusual role of full back for the quarter, the OMs’ defence was outstanding. Its tenacity was inspiring, as it repelled successive attacking waves of Bernies. Meanwhile, Matty Campbell snapped a welcome goal, and Pete Kennon dobbed his second on the run. More of the OM’s play was through the corridor, which increased the scoring opportunities, and the results showed on the scoreboard. At the end of the third quarter the OMs were attacking, with several forays into the forward line almost resulting in late goals.

 

The margin had been reduced to what was theoretically a manageable target. Goals, however, were still hard to find, and eluded the OMs in the final quarter. The Bernies increased their efforts, and continued to play better wet weather football as they had done all day. The OMs tried their hardest against the heavier and more mature bodies of St. Bernard’s. Nick Lawler rucked all day in an effort applauded by all when he finally staggered off the ground late in the final quarter, having given his all for the Dark Blue. Captain Hamish Turner returned after being a late omission the previous week, and played his hardest to inspire his team mates, in an effort reminiscent of his 2007 form. Scotty Kennon, once a regular in the Seniors, returned to them after an extended period in the Reserves. He played one of his best Senior games, with hard, running footy through the middle, and many handy second and third efforts. He had a parallel in Ned Morrison, who continued his good form of the previous week. Despite the wet conditions, Seccull’s marking ability was untarnished, and his penetrating kicks and forward presence made him one of the OMs’ best players in his second Senior game.

 

Lurch apologises for omitting last week to mention Timothy Kevin Davis (OM 2006), who played his first Senior game last week in impressive style, and who played his second Senior game against St. Bernard’s.

 

Next week the OMs take on old APS foes in Old Carey at the Junction Oval. Old Carey came up from C Section this year after playing a losing grand final against Old Camberwell last year. It sits sixth on the ladder. The OMs find themselves on the bottom of the ladder after five consecutive losses; three of which were against the top three teams. As the end of 2007 showed, the OMs are at their best when their backs are to the wall. Be there on Saturday to support the OMs in their time of need.