Under 19 Report

Premier – De La Salle in a classic
What a game of top class under age football put on by Old Xaverians and De La Salle in front of a massive crowd at Central Reserve. These two sides have played off in the last handful of deciders with the result of 2011 reversed as De La Salle ran out 40 point winners. The first half could have almost been a repeat of the second semi final between these sides a fortnight earlier, De La Salle opened up a lead at quarter time and extended it out to five goals at half time. Would Old Xavs come as they had two weeks ago? You bet. The Xavs kicked four goals to one in the third and the first of the final quarter to reduce the margin to single figures. But then De La Salle surged again. When the margin got out to 21 points the feeling was it was game over, and on queue the Old Xavs resistance almost stopped as De La kicked goals through Charlie Haley twice and another to Hugh Nicholson the game was dusted. Nicholson won the Medal as best on the ground for his four-goal performance and general ball use across half forward. Charlie Haley also slotted four goals his brother Harry found plenty of ball through the midfield. Louis Denton was best for Xavs but overall the De La defence was strong all day and restricted Rob Ralph to just two goals and the Xavs team to just nine.
Section 2 – Old Brighton are Premiers
The U19 Section 2 Grand Final was won handsomely by Old Brighton as they had the game sewn up by half time against Caulfield Grammarians. It was always going to be tough for the Fields who had won their way through to the decider from fourth spot and they only registered the two goals in the opening half to the 14 kicked by the Tonners. Old Brighton’s form this season saw them go in as heavy favourites and they lived up to their billing to win by a final margin of 132 points. Old Brighton had nine goal kickers who all kicked multiples with Charlie King the best of them with five majors. Those goals and his marking were enough for him to win the John Miles Medal for the best on the ground.
Section 3 – Collegians win after the Siren
Collegians defeated Mazenod by a goal after the siren to win a pulsating premiership decider by a goal. Scores were locked about half a dozen times in the final quarter that went 35 minutes with 12 goals kicked and numerous stoppages. The lead changed from Mazenod being a goal in front, to Collegians being a goal in front as the crowd were in raptures at the sheer desperation of both sides. Collegians kicked a goal with 13 seconds remaining to level the scores and from the bounce they won the clearance with Nick Blackney took a mark. The siren sounded and only 35 meters out, any score would do. He kicked truly after the siren to fulfill every boys dream of kicking a goal after the siren to win a premiership. Collegians senior full forward Nick Sautner collected the footy after the goal was kicked through and made sure it found its way back to Blackney so he has it as a keepsake. The premiership medal and the football he kicked to win the Grand Final – not a bad day out.
North – OG’s claim another flag
Old Geelong defeated Williamstown CYMS in a brilliant contest at Trevor Barker Oval by eight points to claim a second, later to become one of three premierships for the club in 2012. After a blistering 5.7 to 1.1 opening quarter had Williamston up by five goals the OG’s slowly worked their way back into the game. They were two points down at the long break thanks to Karey Taylor who had six goal goals to half time with five in the second quarter alone. His efforts won him the medal for best on the ground, although interestingly he didn’t kick a goal in the second half. Old Geelong outscored Willy to take a 14 point lead into the three quarter time huddle and after the break the CY’s came out to throw everything they could at the OGs, they outscored them in the final quarter but it wasn’t enough as they fell just eight points short.
South – Parkdale Vultures Celebrate
Parkdale Vultures won the U19 South Premiership at Central Reserve defeating De La Salle Gold 18.6.114 to 10.9.69 by 45 points. Lewis Emmerson won the Jon Simpson Medal for his seven-goal best on the ground performance. Parkdale coasted a little in the final quarter as De La Salle got their hands on the ball to kick some late goals but the Vultures could afford to enjoy the moment. The late De La goals certainly didn’t stop the jubilation at the final siren of the Vultures supporters and the cheers could have been heard back in Parkdale.

U18 – Oakleigh’s Krushing Win

Oakleigh comfortably defeated Werribee Districts 19.12.126 to 8.8.56 at Central Reserve to secure another U18 Flag for the Krushers. Aaron Cloke added another medal to his collection winning the best on the ground medal to go with his competition best and fairest medal. Oakleigh setup the lead early and carried on with heavy scoring right up until the final siren.

15.09.2012
SEASON CLIMAX 
 
Premier
For the 4th year in a row, the Under 19 Premier Grand Final will be contested between De La Salle & Old Xaverians. The two powerhouses of VAFA junior football have got a great history against each other and this Saturday’s final will no doubt add another great chapter. Will Xavs go back to back or will De La get revenge for their loss in the 2011 Grand Final.
De La Salle won through the the Grand Final in comprehensive fashion with an 87 point win over St Bernards in last week’s Preliminary Final. Hugh Nicholson was the star up forward with nine goals with Dan Convery showing good form around the ground. For St Bernards it is the end of the line in 2012, but it has been a very good season with the last weeks all about honouring their lost mate Harry Overman.
Grand Final Preview – De La Salle v Old Xaverians
The Xavs and De La have met three times this season, each game being decided by fewer the 3 goals with the Red & Black saluting each time. In two of those games De La have been in match winning positions, leading by 6 goal margins but Xavs have clawed back into the contest and managed to snatch victories, the most recent of these of course in the 2nd Semi Final two weeks ago.
The match will see two quality midfields to lock horns, for the Xavs, Denton, Batten & Pat Monti against Harry Haley, Gotch & Hamilton. De La’s ruckmen, Paul Johnson will look to give his midfield first use of the ball and Xavs will need to be at their best to counteract this. Both forward lines are also in good form, with Nicholson kicking nine and Howard bagging four against St Bernards in the Prelim, then there’s Charlie Haley winning the leading goal kicker medal and being on of the premier players in the competition. Robbie Ralph has a had a great year and will be heavily watched by the De La backmen and Nick Sharkey, who kicked 6 for the Xavs in the round 18 clash will need close attention too. It will be a cracking game out at Central Reserve on Saturday afternoon with the two powerhouse teams of this competition fighting it out for the ultimate prize. My tip is for De La to reverse the result of two weeks ago and take the flag by 16 points.
Tip: De La Salle
Section 2
During the season the sides met three times and the Skobbers won all three in tight finishes. What a game – a very high standard in all areas and played in great weather. Both sides had opportunities to take control. Caulfield led by eight points at quarter time, St Kevins by nine at the main break and eight at three quarter time. The last quarter was amazing – the Skobbers kicked one goal then Caulfield came and came and came again – kicking nine goals to the Skobbers three, to run out 24 point winners. To add insult to injury the Skobbers kicked 11.21 and had 32 scoring shots to 26. St Kevins had every chance to put them away but just could not nail them. The long quarters put pressure on both sides but Caulfield deserved the win and will take on Old Brighton in this week’s Grand Final.
Grand Final Preview – Old Brighton v Caulfield 
By The Phantom:  This clash is a bit like the Geelong v Fremantle clash – All the money is on Old Brighton but Caulfield could get up in a fairy tale finish from fourth spot. In every game everyone has a chance, in this case Old Brighton hold the cards but Caulfield are into ‘take a chance and see what rolls out.” Both sides are loaded with talent but Caulfield are in form with two great final wins and will run the game out. It’s important to be trained for the moment and the Fields will certainly be primed for the day! Josh McCahon has done a great job and should be Section 2 coach of the year, for getting to the grand final from 4th spot! Old Brighton have been the form side all year but the punters love an under dog finish so I am going for Caulfield.
Tip: Old Brighton
Section 3
As expected in this column last week, Collegians accounted for Northern Blues in the Preliminary Final to set up a Grand Final clash with Mazenod. Collegians trailed by 2 points at the first break but turned it on in the second quarter to run out winners by 39 points. Nick Blackney kicked three goals and Lindsay Apted two with best afield honours to setup a Grand Final with the two inform sides of the section. Northern Blues will be wondering where it all went wrong after a dominant season fell away at the end.
Grand Final – Mazenod v Collegians
The Grand Final pits two sides against each other that are very even, so much so that scores were level at the final siren in a night match in round 9. After leading for most of the game, Collegians gave up a lead but Mazenod couldn’t get the points. In the second meeting it was and 11 point victory for Mazenod as they got over a Collegians side that was short on their key movers that day. So where does that leave us? Mazenod have had the easier ride into the Grand Final but Collegians have been coming for the past few weeks too. Considering some of the talent on display this should be a ripping game starting at 11.15am at Scammell reserve on Sunday, and I lean to Collegians by 12 points.
Tip: Collegians
North
It’s hard to believe that Ivanhoe have gone out in straight sets but now that it is on paper it must be true. Ivanhoe dropped three games for the year then lost two in a row going down to Old Geelong in the Preliminary Final by three goals. The OG’s now have the right to secure the club’s second premiership this season when they take on Williamstown CYMS in the Grand Final 9.15am at Trevor Barker Oval on Sunday. It’s hard to get a read on how the final will go but I tend to lean towards the hooped men who are riding the wave of club success this year. This is despite Willy, boasting the competition best and fairest winner in Nic Holdsworth.
Tip: Old Geelong
South
De La Salle thrashed Peninsula in the Preliminary Final to move into a Grand Final match against Parkdale Vultures at Central Reserve at 9.15 Saturday. De La led the Pirates all day with Matt Hogan kicking four goals and Jack Hanley three. The Grand Final will be an interesting battle as Parkdale and De La Salle have both handed out their fair share of thrashings for their opponents this season. Parkdale won the last battle between these sides in the second semi a fortnight ago by 18 points. Given that most recent encounters are strongest in the memory it’s hard to go past the Vultures again.
Tip Parkdale Vultures
U18 Grand Final
We also acknowledge the U18 Grand Finalists this year and say congratulations to Oakleigh and Werribee. Both sides have had terrific season whee they finished on equal points only separated by percentage. Werribee won their way through to the Grand Final comfortably beating St Bernards by 47 points. They take on Oakleigh at Central Reserve at 9.15am on Sunday for a chance to pinch a flag for the club in 2012. I lean to Oakleigh in this one after their second semi win a fortnight ago.
Tip: Oakleigh
 
8.09.2012
U19 Premier
Wow, what a game! De La Salle lead by 33 points at half time in the second semi final against Old Xaverians and then the red and black stormed home to win by 10 points. If you haven’t seen it yet – check out the Old Xavs boys rendition of the song on VAFA TV. De La stormed clear in the second quarter with 7.6 to 0.2 and the game looked done. By three quarter time there had been a seven goal turn around, Old Xavs kicked 9.8 to 3.2 to take a nine point lead into the final change. Seb Gotch back from the seniors snagged six goals for De La with Charlie Haley slotting three but Xavs had more multiple goal kickers in an enthralling battle. Perhaps De La can exact revenge in the Grand Final but they have a Preliminary Final to negotiate first. St Bernards will be De La’s opponent this week as they thrashed St Bedes/Mentone Tigers last week to end their season in the other semi final. The Tigers were within striking distance at half time but the Bernies piled on 8.4 for in the premiership quarter to put the game beyond reach. The margin was an even 10 goals at the final break before it was extended to 81 points at the final siren. Jack Solomon was a handful and also kicked a handful of goals whilst Matt Hutchesson also kicked four and Sam Wood had plenty of footy. St Bernards will go into the Preliminary Final confident and together. They have had a tough year as a club and noting brings you closer than adversity. Good luck to the Bernies today.
Section 2 
As seen by the Phantom:Old Brighton, were in the end too strong for St Kevins, but they were given a good run for their money the first and last term. Old Brighton did not waste the ball whereas St Kevins had plenty of it but you could have built a house if thewastage was in timber! Both sides had nine goal kickers each but Old Brighton had Charlie King who kicked five. Not sure if he is being called “the difference” by his teammates just yet, perhaps it will be common if he repeats the performance in two weeks time.
Werribee v Caulfield: Caulfield are in form at the right time and accounted for Werribee’s gun midfield in their 45 point win. Drew Dickson was impressive and Jackson Small kicked five in the win that ends the Tiger’s season. Can the Fields go one further and make the grand final? They face a St Kevins outfit who are up against the wall, but they usually rebound strongly.
This week: St Kevins v Caulfield The matches between these side this year have been great value for money. St Kevins have won the three so the good money goes on them but the Fields are hungry and the future of the club is on display so expect a close one. Caulfield will look to Butler, Easton, Stewart, Wren and Malone for drive around the ground while the Skoberrs will want solid games fromHolland, Eva, Cellini, Gambaro and Keely. These games bring out the best in Under 19 players and expect a bigger than usual crowd at Central Reserve. Following this game is the Premier Under 19 Prelim and it does not get any better than De La Salle v St Bernards- a classic catholic school hit out with no prize for second!
Section 3
Mazenod stormed into the Grand Final with a comprehensive 15.13.103 to 8.6.54 win over the early season pacesetters Northern Blues. What has happened at Northern Blues I am not quite sure but their season is in trouble unless they can turn it around in the Preliminary final this week. Blues will meet Collegians who are on the march after they dismissed Old Camberwell in emphatic fashion. Old Camberwell could manage only one goal, whilst three Collegians players each booted three. (King, Hibbins and Apted). On this form I fancy that Collegians will beat Northern Blues today.
U19 North
Williamstown CYMS got up in a thrilling second semi final win over Ivanhoe with a late goal seeing them hold on to win by eight points at Bill Lawry Oval.  It was a low scoring game with both sides struggling to score regularly. The third quarter was critical as Williamstown booted four goals to none to take a seven point lead into the final term. Old Geelong will be Ivanhoe’s opponent as they held out Therry Penola by 11 points to end their season. It was another low scoring game, but the OG’s set the tone for their seniors later that day turning a 19 point half time deficit into a 26 point three quarter time lead. The way Old Geelong are going at present you also tip them on the excitement around the place in the prelim against the CYs today.
U19 South
James Howards four goal best on ground display wasn’t enough for De La Salle to hold off Parkdale Vultures in their second semi at Brindisi St. Chris Welch kick three for the Vultures and Josh Kovarik was a star as they booked their place in the Grand Final. De La Salle will now play Peninsula who beat St Bedes/Mentone Tigers in an absolute thriller at Trevor Barker Oval. The Tigers kicked 3.4 to 3.2 in the final term as they came home hard in a bid to extend their season. It wasn’t to be and Peninsula will give themselves a good chance against De La today.
01.09.2012
And then there were 20
To say that there are still 20 teams left in Under 19 competitions sounds like you could run another season with each side playing each other once. Finals are like another season as the 20 sides try to reposition themselves for a tilt at one of the five premierships up for grabs at U19 level. Injuries and player availability are a major concern but there is no doubt that the pressure and commitment of everyone goes up a notch or three come finals time. If you beat a side by 10 goals two weeks ago then forget it this weekend. You season will be defined by what happens over the next three weeks, not the past 18. After that little rev-up we better just remind ourselves what happened in the final round of the season.
U19 Premier – A Black Day
A strange twist of fate saw the top two in the section line up against each other in the final round for a spot of shadow boxing before meeting again the following week in a second semi-final. De La Salle and Old Xaverians kicked the dew off Waverly Park before their respective reserve and senior sides did battle. There was a point the difference at half time but five goals to two from the visitors in the third was all they needed with that difference being the final margin at the end. Nick Sharkey kicked a handful for Old Xavs whilst Sefton McGraw was doing good things for De La. There was another case of the draw throwing up a curly one, as St Bernards (third) played St Bedes/Mentone Tigers (fourth). Matt Hutchesson kicked four for the Snowpups and was best on ground for his efforts. St Bedes/Mentone will want a better start than giving up a 28 quarter time lead when these two clash next week. Old Melburnians celebrated the end of their campaign with a 115 point win over Beaumaris. A staggering 17 players kicked goals for the OMs in a brilliant team display. Old Scotch defeated University Blues at Crawford Oval. The Blues were fifth for most of the year but with nothing much to play for other than pride a first quarter lapse saw them 35 points down at the first bell. When the final margin was just 37, it makes you wonder how many other times a quarter lapse cost them this year. Uni Blacks won their first game of the year defeating second bottom Fitzroy in the final round of the season. The win wasn’t enough to get them off the bottom but it was enough whet the appetite of the players over the summer.
U19 Section 2 – Ace in the hole
Beware of the teams that play dead a week out from the finals. At least that is what you would be telling your side if you were coming up against St Kevins and Old Brighton – good thing they play each other then. St Kevins suffered at the hands of Werribee Districts with the Tigers putting 18 goals past the Skobbers in their 12 goal win. Jaxon Cooke kicked four goals with a host of others getting in on the act as well. St Kevins will need to bounce back next week if they are to do any damage in September. Werribee face a Caulfield side in a knock out semi final after the Fielders had a win of the same magnitude, albeit against an injury ravaged Old Carey. Nick Tonkin (6) and Fred Cooper (4) slotted 10 between them in the 78 point win. Old Haileybury bid farewell to 2012 in style with a 74 point win over Marcellin. Matt Mitchell bagged seven goals and Mat Shill 2 and a heap of footy for the Bloods. Old Trinity’s season ended with a spirited 10 point loss to the ladder leaders Old Brighton. Oscar Fairweather was great for the OTs, kicking two goals as well, but Brighton led at every change in the low scoring contest. Having said that, there is much to improve on for this week’s semi-final.
The Phantom says: The last round was a bunch of 10’s for the top sides- Old Brighton just gets up against Old Trinity by around 10 points and the Skobbers were beaten by 10 goals plus at Werribee. It means a very interesting week next week. Old Brighton have some questions and St Kevins have a few more? Other results – Old Haileybury finished well over Marcellin and Caulfield were too good against a depleted Old Carey.
U19 Section 3 – Following in the footsteps
Ormond thrashed Old Xavs ended the season in style to record their fourth win of the campaign. Sam Stait slotted six goals as the Monders piled on seven goals to two in the final term to win by 68 points. Mazenod ensure they would head into finals with good form with a 56 point win over St Bernards. Old Camberwell defeated PEGS to also carry winning form into September. Carey McLaughlin and Jackson Hrbek found plenty of footy in the 29 point win. Collegians upset the apple cart with doubling the scores of Northern Blues to send a message to the final four. Sam Hibbins dominated play and kicked four goals whilst Steve Maidera wasn’t bad either for the Lions. The loss means Blues give up top spot and they will need to turn things around when they face Mazenod in the second semi-final this week. Collegians will need to win three finals to secure a premiership but with the talent at their disposal it is not beyond them. Can they take the lead from their senior side to find a way to September success?
U19 North – Flirting with form?
Another team that could do some damage from outside the top two is Old Geelong as they showed the sort of form that could have them challenge for a flag when they defeated ladder leaders Ivanhoe by five goals. Ivanhoe may have been going through the motions but the OGs had 24 scoring shots to the Hoes 14. Williamstown CYMS didn’t flirt with their form crushing La Trobe Uni by 92 points. Four goals each to Matt Singleton and Ryan Joy were the major scoring contributions but Yuma Hemphill’s performance stood out as he also slotted a couple of goals. La Trobe were the best of the rest and will have something to build on for next year. Therry Penola also took no chances in their 161 point demolition of MHSOB. Brock Egglestone and Jonathon Tonna both kicked four in the rout.

U19 South –
De La Salle held Beaumaris scoreless for three quarters in a 151 point win. Fortunately for Beauy their 1.1 was on the board in the first term. An incredible 19 players kicked a goal in the win for De La (would love to know if that is a record?). St Bedes/Mentone Tigers had a 44 point win over Monash Blues at Brindisi Street. Jordan Young slotted six goals and Jack Pollard was very good for the home side whilst Tom Ruddell for Blues had a fine afternoon.  Hampton Rovers ran St Mary’s Salesian close going down by 15 points at Boss James but they couldn’t stop the Saints’ Nick Alexopoulos who kicked five goals and was the difference between the sides. Peninsula played out a tense battle exchanging the lead with Parkdale multiple times throughout the afternoon before triumphing by 16 points. These sides could meet again in the finals in the coming weeks but on neutral territory, how much advantage the Pirates get at home remains to be seen.
25.08.2012
U19
Just a week of football left for 20 teams this week and it has been a season of wet weather footy. The weather didn’t stop the cream rising to the top in the team of the year in each section though.
So with the help of some clubs and observers from your games here are attempts at the team of the year in each section.
Premier
Fitzroy had a great 17 point win over Beaumaris to win their second game of the year. Old Melburnians defeated Old Scotch by 14 points at Camberwell Sports Ground. St Bernards defeated top side De La Salle by 20 points in a great tribute to Harry Overman. The Snowdogs could cause some serious damage in September with many U19 players available after the seniors finish up their year. St Bedes/Mentone Tigers had a thumping 82 point win over Uni Blacks with James Dalzotto kicking 6 in the win. Old Xaverians won by 70 points over Uni Blues with Rob Ralph booting another four goals for the red and blacks.
Team of the year:
B    C Long (Old Scotch)    D Convery (De La Salle)    D Pactas (Fitzroy)
HB    S Peacock (Old Melburnians)    B McLean (Beaumaris)    S Bell (Uni Blacks)
C    S Carr (Uni Blues)    C O’Bierne (Old Scotch)    A Murray (Old Melburnians)
HF    R Ralph (Old Xavs)    S Berengo (Old Xavs)    M Williams (Beaumaris)
F    C Haley (De La Salle)    D Wall (St Bernards)    P Johnson (De La Salle)
R    P Fergusson (Uni Blues)    A Cross (SB/MT)    H Haley (De La Salle)
I    J Terrell (De La Salle)    T Sharp (Uni Blacks)    J Gay (St Bernards)
J O’Kearney (SB/MT)
Section 2
Results went as predicted for the weekend as Old Haileybury thrashed Old Carey by 54 points and St Kevin’s were 172 points better than Marcellin with Lach Nankervis kicking seven and Jordan Cellini kicked six. Old Brighton shaded Werribee by three goals and Caulfield trounced Old Trinity by 92 points.
Team of the year
B    J Alkemade (Old Haileybury)    J Weber (St Kevins)    T Bastiaan (Marcellin)
HB    L Healy (O Brighton)    D Vernay (Old Brighton)    J Paul (St Kevins)
C    J Bettello (Marcellin)    L Pinot (Old Haileybury)    N Hellyer (Old Brighton)
HF    J Cellini (St Kevins)    M Evans (Old Carey)    E Satur (Old Trinity)
F    J Cooke (Werribee Districts)     M Mitchell (Old Haileybury)    M Tregear (Old Brighton)
R    J Taylor (Werribee Districts)     K Stewart (Caulfield)    M Eva (St Kevins)
I    M Turner (Werribee Districts)    T Mitchell (Old Trinity)    T Butler (Caulfield)
J Seppi (Old Carey)
Section 3
Old Xaverians beat Ormond by 67 at home, as did Collegians over St Bernards with exactly the same scoreline. Both scores were 9.18 to 2.13 – incredible stuff! Northern Blues defeated PEGS by 12 goals and Mazenod held out Old Camberwell by 22 points.
Team of the year
B    N Karikas (PEGS)    J Kellly (Mazenod)    M Feehan (St Bernards)
HB    D Riazah-Kesheh (Ormond)    P Dempsey (Northern Blues)     H Pool (Collegians)
C    D Marcon (Northern Blues)    L Apted (Collegians)    T Hughes (Northern Blues)
HF    T Schipper (O Camberwell)    S Hibbins (Collegians)    A Olson (Ormond)
F    J Notaro (St Bernards)    L Greco (Mazenod)    J Powell (Northern Blues)
R    N Blackney (Collegians)    J King (Northern Blues)    J Himat (O Camberwell)
I    S McCann (PEGS)    J Davis (Mazenod)    M Vlahos (Old Xavs)
N Jook (Mazenod)
North
Old Geelong beat La Trobe Uni by four goals although half of the margin was actuall 12 behinds. Therry Penola won away at MHSOB by 28 points. Williamstown CYMS defeated Ivanhoe at Ivanhoe Park by 15 points to make things interesting for the finals in two weeks.
Team of the year:
B    W Cuthbert (Ivanhoe)    A Purtell (Ivanhoe)    S Calafiore (Therry Penola)
HB    N Holdsworth (Williamstown CYMS)    R Kemp (Old Geelong)    L Ferris (MHSOB)
C    R de Crespigny (Old Geelong)    Z Mowat (Ivanhoe)    C Robinson (Ivanhoe)
HF    A de Fegely (Old Geelong)    J Swainger (Ivanhoe)    J Hickey (La Trobe Uni)
F    T Williams (La Trobe Uni)    K Taylor (Old Geelong)    H Rowe (Therry Penola)
R    D Ploughman (Ivanhoe)    D Blake (Therry Penola)    H Byrne (Old Geelong)
I    B Egglestone (Therry Penola)    D Ryan (La Trobe Uni)    L Fraser (La Trobe Uni)
S Hayes (MHSOB)
South
Parkdale Vultures kicked 25 goals on the way to a 144 point win over Hampton Rovers, Chris Welch and Charlie Dillon both slotting five. St Bedes/Mentone Tigers won by 98 points against Beaumaris and Peninsula won comfortably at St Mary’s Salesian by 63 points. De La Salle also won comfortably at Monash Blues with Kobi Wallis kicking five in the 92 point win.
Team of the year:
B    J Townley (SB/MT)    O Fitzpatrick (Monash Blues)    L Brennan (Beaumaris)
HB    S Chitty(Parkdale)    M Harvey (De La Salle)    T Schaule (De La Salle)
C    S Hendricks (Parkdale)    M Pennachia (De La Salle)    M O’Connor (SB/MT)
HF    S Glenn (Peninsula)     H Brodie (Peninsula)    J Kovarik (Parkdale)
F    N Alexopoulos (St Mary’s Salesian)    J Young (SB/MT)    C Wheeler (Monash Blues)
R    T Fenwick (Parkdale)    D Spicer (De La Salle)    J Massey (Hampton Rovers)
I    J Pollard (SB/MT)    D Tanner (SB/MT)    J Dillon (Hampton Rovers)
D Cropley (St Mary’s Salesian)
 
18.08.2012
Lap of honour
U19 Premier
Old Melburnians shaded a desperately unlucky University Blacks who were looking for their first win of the season. The final margin of just five points doesn’t acknowledge to ferocious nature of the comeback from the students who came from five goals down at quarter time and four goals down at three quarter time to fall agonisingly short. Tom Sharp was brilliant in defeat as was Harry Ukich whilst Melburnians were led by Nick Churkovich and Ed Fanning in their win. Ladder leaders De La Salle were also pushed all the way by St Bedes/Mentone Tigers at Brindisi St. The nine point difference at the final siren showing that the premiership is still and open race. It can be won from fourth spot which the Tigers currently occupy and they will take confidence into September that they are not far away. Jack Gava was best for De La and Ben Nicoll led the way for the Tigers. Uni Blues will be hoping that St Bedes/Mentone drop their next two games as they make a late bit for fourth spot thanks to their surprise 31 point win over St Bernards. Pat Ferguson and Louis Wardle led the way for the Blues who now sit just a game outside the four. Old Xaverians piled on the goals against Beaumaris as they won by 104 points. Rob Ralph (5) and Steve Berengo (4) combining for 9 goals. Old Scotch monstered Fitzroy by 88 points, the Cardinals with 12 goal kickers were too good all day.
U19 Section 2
Old Brighton confirmed premiership favouritism with a  big 58 point win over Old Haileybury at home Mic Tregear slotted four Chris Hardgrave was dominant in the win that leaves them on top a game clear. St Kevins inflicted worse damage on Old Trinity to be in hot pursuit of the Tonners with a 100 point win at home that belied the result the last time they met. Caulfield sent Marcellin packing by 44 points with a win that most likely secures them finals action. Old Carey didn’t send a side to play Werribee who collected the forfeit points.
The Phantom is back: I returned from assignment at the Olympics and was very impressed with the overall organisation of the Games from a spectator viewpoint. Trackside the high level of respect shown by competitors in different events towards each other and the officials was excellent. This leads to the Phantom’s Code of Conduct for the finals:
The Phantom’s Final’s Player  Code of Conduct
Realise that you are playing in the best run football competition in Victoria.
1)    Respect the umpires in finals games – they are doing their best.
2)    Don’t try anything risky as experienced umpires have seen it all before.
3)    At the end of the game shake hands with your opponent.
4)    Thank your coach for giving up his time to do the very best with the playing group this year.
5)    Thank your team mates for their efforts.
6)    When it’s party time- Don’t Drink and Drive – Find a non drinking team mate to take you all home or do as the Phantom did once – walk 5km’s home.
A thought on finals
The finals series means sunshine, some wind, the smell of cut grass – sounds like a wine add! Bigger crowds gather to watch the action and it’s a great family atmosphere. For teams playing finals as a new experience it is a great day. The Phantom played in a winning A Grade Reserve Premiership many years ago with Ormond, when they we a powerhouse and he still has his medal today. They can be some of the best football experiences in your life so enjoy them and best of luck to all finals teams!
U19 Section 3
Mazenod thumped Ormond by 126 points at home with Louis Greco kicking five goals and nine other team mates on the score sheet. Collegians blitzed Old Camberwell at the start to lead all day in a solid win at Gordon Barnard reserve to give them confidence before a potential first semi final clash in a few weeks time. Sam Hibbins and Lindsay Apted led the way for the Lions. PEGS outplayed St Bernards all afternoon to win by 41 points. Ben Caminiti and Jack Williams were best performed for PEGS whilst Sean O’Keefe and Jake Notaro were prominent for the Snowdogs. Northern Blues reconfirmed their Premiership credentials after a few wobbly weeks with a strong win over Old Xavs by 43 points.
U19 North
The game of the day was no doubt between MHSOB and La Trobe University and as we have seen in recent weeks in the heavy conditions a low scoring contest provides with tense and close football. La Trobe clung on to a two point win at the final siren to deny MHSOBs a second win of the season. Michael Hughes, Peter Melilli and Jake Duell were magnificent for the Unicorns but huge performances from Ed Mckenzie, Dom Moore and Luke Fraser help the Uni get over the line by two behinds. At Fawkner reserve Therry Penola couldn’t match Ivanhoe who are looking morals for the flag this year. The four goals loss was no disgrace for the Lions by any means but just two weeks out from finals the Hoers are looking good. Old Geelong had a good win against Williamstown CYMS at Como, winning by 21 points. The win for the OGs is a good confidence booster should the two sides meet again in September. Four goals to Sam Youngman let all comers on the scoreboard but Robert De Crespigny took best afield honours on the day ahead of the CY’s best in Baxter Callan.
U19 South
De La Salle tuned up for the finals with a big win over Hampton Rovers at Boss James. The Rovers have improved greatly over the course of the season but they couldn’t prevent De La kicking 23.18 in their 127 point win. Damon Grant and Nicholas Lowrie each booted five goals whilst three other players kicked three each. A closer contest was held at Brindisi Street where St Bedes/Mentone Tigers held off St Mary’s Salesian by 11 points. St Mary’s were goalless in the first quarter and outscored the home side after that but could never bridge the gap. The other games were more lopsided as Peninsula won by 160 points against Monash Blues and Parkdale Vultures by 162 points against Beaumaris. Hayden Brodie kicked 7 goals for Peninsula and Chris Welch kicked 6 goals for Parkdale in their win. Beauy must be commended for fronting and playing with just 17 players despite in a day where they failed to kick a goal.
Thank you for your nominations of players for each section’s team of the year – I almost have them pencilled in but will take more nominations this week. If you haven’t sent your players in or you would like to highlight someone else then please send them through to [email protected]
11.08.2012
Premier
The final four is virtually set but that didn’t stop St Bernards from recording a strong 45-point win over Old Melburnians. Whilst OMs are a mathematical chance of making the finals as soon as you bring ifs and buts into the equation the likelihood is that you have only four more games this year. University Blues are also a mathematical chance after recording a 10-point win over Beaumaris. Blues are two games outside the four and need results to go their way. Whilst Beauy lost they will be happy with the efforts of Alex Smout who kicked seven. Hayden Jeans better Smout’s seven with eight goals of his own to help St Bedes / Mentone Tigers to a 136 point win over Fitzroy. The Tigers had 12 goal kickers and would need to fall away dramatically to concede fourth spot. Old Xaverians piled on the goals with Steven Berengo nailing 10 in a 131 point win over Uni Blacks.  De La Salle also had a player bag 10 goals as Charlie Haley returned to the side. De La’s seniors might have struggled against Old Scotch but the result was reversed in the U19s after a 134 point win.
U19 Section 2
Werribee Districts had a good win at Old Haileybury by 39 points as Jaxon Cooke kicked seven for the visitors in a best on ground display. The Tonners won easily and controlled all aspects of the game. Old Carey tried hard but could not match Brighton’s strength nor Michael Tregear who kicked six goals. Another Bulleen Road derby, this time between next door neighbours Marcellin and Old Trinity. The OT’s would have pencilled in this game as a win in their late push for fourth spot but Marcellin with some vital inclusions sung the song for just the second time in 2012. The Skobbers were six goals up at halftime but nearly got run over as Caulfield hit the front with two minutes to play but St.Kevins dug deep and kicked a match winning goal with only seconds to spare. The vital four points will nearly seal second spot for St Kevins with many players from both sides putting in herculean efforts.
The Phantom will be back from the Olympics next week to give further insight to Under 19’s footy.
U19 Section 3
The four is not set in U19 Section 3 as PEGS fell short of Collegians by just nine points. Tim Varigos kicked six goals in for the winners whilst Liam Sutawan was best for PEGS. Northern Blues hold on to top spot from Mazenod courtesy of their 44 point win over Ormond. Mazenod blitzed Old Xaverians by 68 points despite a solid six goal effort from Zac Cosgrove. Old Camberwell had Nick Adamson boot five goals to help them secure a finals birth, defeating St Bernards by 55 points at the College.
U19 North
Ivanhoe went to Old Geelong and came away winners by 11 goals. The Hoers were led Daniel Jones and Jake Brown whilst Jack Normand was the highest of many goalkickers with three. Williamstown CYMS might be in trouble in the seniors but at least the club could celebrate the success last Saturday of the U19s who posted a massive 91 point win over MHSOBs at Fearon Reserve. In a strange situation Williamstown are short on match practice compared to their finals opponents as they have had three of their matches forfeited this year. Let’s hope the weeks off do not disturb the CYs finals preparation. Therry Penola had a good win against La Trobe Uni by 35 points with Darrell Blake kicking four.
U19 South
Parkdale Vultures are one of the teams to beat in the south and Monash Blues found that out last weekend as they trailed at every break to the Vultures who won by 57 points. Hampton Rovers won their third game of the year against bottom side Beaumaris and in doing so will likely avoid the wooden spoon. The Rovers got up by 32 points with Nick Taylor kicking four. There must be a sign on the wall at Peninsula that says if you are going to win then win well. Peninsula must have transported that sign to St Bedes / Mentone Tigers as the visitors recorded a 56 point win.
We would like to produce a team of the year for each sections so would encourage all coaching panels to send in your nominations from both you team and other teams you have played that you think would fit into a U19 team of the year for your section. Please send nominations to [email protected]

04.08.2012
Let it rain
One of the great things about U19s football is that you often get to play at the proper football time of 2pm. This is great for the lads that might have indulged a little more than they should have during the week, providing extra sleeping in time on the Saturday morning. The flipside of course is that there might have been one or possibly two games before your match and on wet days like Saturday you will need a serious drying room to dry up your boots in time for Tuesday’s training.
Of course most players have a couple pairs of boots – although much to the chagrin of more seasoned observers – players these days still don’t have long screw in stops in their selection.
U19 Premier – Close in the battle for 7th
None of this was a problem for some of the sides in U19 Premier, most notably De La Salle who managed 25.12 to Fitzroy’s 5.7. James Howard was singling in the rain booting 11 goals in a best on ground display. St Bernards hosted an undermanned University Blacks and the home side extended the margin at every change to win by an even seven goals (Tom Black kicked four). The other games were closer though but still high scoring enough to suggest not all grounds in Melbourne suffer under a heavy watering. University Blues at home went down to St Bedes / Mentone Tigers by 18 points. Old Xaverians played Old Melburnians in Kew, with the home side holding on to win by a couple of goals. The close one of the day was at Camberwell Sports Ground where Old Scotch stormed home in the last quarter to pip Beaumaris by two points. A four goal to one final quarter after a goalless first term saw the Cardinals jump past Beauy to seventh on the ladder.
U19 Section 2 – Questions remain
Old Brighton handled the wet conditions better than the SKOBS and deserved the win by 58 points. The Skobbers had several key players out and the next game will be a final so anything can happen – don’t write off the Toorak boys just yet but Brighton are back to flag favourites. Caulfield are finding the much needed form at the right time of the season while Old Haileybury hit another flat spot they hit the pedal but there was no power – probably engine trouble. Are the Fields good enough to go past fourth spot though? Old Carey was too strong in most departments to defeat Marcellin by 31 points. An interesting game as Old Trinity search for finals action but Werribee were too strong in the end winning by eight goals – Jaxon Cook was most damaging with four goals for the Tigers whilst Taylor Gale booted three for the men in green.
U19 Section 3
St Bernards hosted Ormond and did well to defeat the team one above them on the ladder by 31 points. At Gordon Barnard Reserve Old Camberwell inflicted a surprise defeat on Northern Blues by 23 points – James Howells was outstanding booting 6 goals in the low scoring match. After their earlier draw this year Mazenod defeated Collegians second time around to jump to second on the ladder. Whilst over in Essendon PEGS defeated Old Xavs in a battle to determine the best placed side outside the finals positions. James Federico kicked four for the home side whilst Matthew Ferraro was named best in the 89 point win.
U19 North
Old Geelong hosted Therry Penola at Como Park and in plenty of moisture the Lions had a win to take home with them to the northern suburbs. The 34 point margin in the conditions was a good result for Therry over the second placed OGs. Hayden Rowe was outstanding for the visitors and three goals each to Michael Jacobson and Shae Tatlock were solid contributions. Ivanhoe crossed the West Gate to steal the points by 14 against Williamstown CYMS. Four goals to David Ioannou was matched by Zac Mowat’s work around the ground. Lat Trobe Uni were too strong for MHSOBs. The 50 point margin could have been more if the conditions permitted but it also could have been less – we will never know. What we do know is that La Trobe still need to win all remaining games if they are to play finals.
U19 South
Twelve different goalkickers most weeks will see you get over the line regardless of the weather. This was the case for St Mary’s Salesian who had the easy kill in Beaumaris this week to keep alive their hopes of finals action. The 120 point win will be a confidence booster but they still remain outside the four. Keeping them at bay are St Bedes / Mentone Tigers who hung on for dear life against Parkdale Vultures to win by 3 points. Peninsula would need a calamitous end to the season to not be playing finals and after defeating top side De La Salle they should be confident heading into the pointy end of the year. The final 33 point margin doesn’t show the great team effort the Pirates. Monash Blues and Hampton Rovers would be happy with wins at this time of the year and it was Blues who saluted by three goals in the 9.20 start at Boss James. Blues won with 19 men which was a good effort, Michael Mckinna the only multiple goalkicker with two.

28.07.2012
U19 Premier
In a game where Fitzroy were expected to struggle, the Roys did well against Old Melburnians and it could have been better had they kicked straight. In the end Melburnians had too many avenues to goal (11 goal kickers) with Nick Mclardy the best kicking four in a 70 point win. So often we have seen sides be all square at half time only to fall away in the second period of the game. Not so this clash between St Bedes / Mentone Tigers and Old Xaverians at Brindisi St. The Tigers led by three points at the final change and ended up losing by just four points in a cracking contest. U19 Big V representative Charlie Woodley (Xavs) returned to the side in style with three goals, also with three were Steven Berengo (Xavs), James Daizotto (SBMT) and Hayden Jeans (SBMT), but Robert Ralph (Xavs) beat all-comers with four. The second quarter efforts of Beaumaris who kicked 5.5 to Uni Blacks’ solitary goal was the difference in this clash. Blacks outscored Beauy in the final term and the efforts of Jonathon Bunge to kick six were great but it wasn’t enough as the students went down by 5 goals. St Bernards had a happy day at home to Old Scotch winning by an impressive 136 points. It was a day to be called Jack, as Fenner (6) and Gay (4) kicked 10 between them for the Bernies. De La Salle accounted for University Blues quite easily to remain top. Oscar Persson and Adrian Indovino both three goals each, were the major contributors to the scoreboard whilst Harry Haley stole his brother’s limelight for the week with a best on ground performance.
U19 SECTION 2
In a quick summation; Old Brighton defeated Caulfield Grammarians by 32 points, Old Trinity beat Old Haileybury by 47 points, St Kevins rolled Old Carey by 21 points and Werribee Districts (Cooke 6 goals) triumphed handsomely over Marcellin by 115 points.
Late season team review by the PHANTOM
Thank you to the Phantom for his contribution on Section 2. The Phantom will be back in the finals to run his thoughts over the sides in contention. If you would like to contribute to this column then please submit to [email protected].
ST.KEVIN’S lost round 1 by 60 points to Old Brighton but have come back with strength across the side. Have covered the Under 19 players going to the seniors and look the goods at this point. Went down to Brighton by a goal at their last outing and lost to Werribee away, will give the finals a shake. Coach Ray Leetham – six years in the VAFA Under 19 program – has picked up some important aspects about the system and knows how games are won.
OLD BRIGHTON were early flag favourites but had a mid season slump and lost three games in a month. Suffered as players went on holidays and others were pushed to the seniors. Coach Adam Pirrie has seen the side finish on top and the bottom so he knows both extremes. The defeat over Caulfield gives them points ahead of third spot.
WERRIBEE started slowly but building some depth as the season progresses. The fallout from the St Kevin’s Foundation game still hurts. Will attempt a third finals run in three years but are aware of the obstacles ahead. The coaching staff at Werribee crave success, the questions is, how much do the players?
CAULFIELD GRAMMARIANS are up one week and down the next – hard to pick form probably due to the fact they are so close to the Caulfield racetrack. At this point don’t back them, as your money is more valuable in your pocket. Trying to hold on to fourth but could miss the finals with a couple of losses. Coach Josh McCahon uses his school teacher background to coach the Fields and is getting the message through.
OLD TRINITY have been there abouts and recently had good wins against Old Hailebury and Old Carey. Probably should be higher on the ladder. Competitive but often lose best talent to the seniors. Coach Jed Burgess takes the laid back approach to coaching but gets results.
OLD HAILEBURY are usually very handy at home but have been outsmarted on their own turf on a number of occasions. Early four favourites but may miss the August finals action due to dropping some games they pencilled in as wins. The game against St Kevin’s was a cracker – a high standard affair, but the Bloods fell short. Coach Dale Anderson has been around footy a long time and is teaching his group a thing or two they did not know.
OLD CAREY over the season have built themselves a side capable of winning some games. A couple of close loses would have hurt especially the Old Trinity defeat in the last seconds. Difficult to beat at home, if they retain a number of players next year they will be competitive. President Paul Newton coached the Under19’s in the past and expects them to play competitive footy which they continue to do under coach Michael Ericson.
MARCELLIN started with a slim list and found the first few rounds tough but stuck with the game plan and won a great game mid season. In the rebuilding phase after last year’s finals run. What is missing this year is the massive home ground advantage that used to scare some sides. At this point looking towards next season and coach Paul Bevan should seek another year to develop the second year players.
U19 Section 3
Old Camberwell went to Ormond and came away with a 71 point win, with Chris Webster kicking six goals. Northern Blues did a similar raid mission on St Bernards to the tune of 103 points, with Damon Marcon snagging five goals, and there were four each to James King and Jake Powell. It was another big margin when Old Xaverians hosted Collegians and again the home side suffered at the hands of their visitors. Elliot Cattel kicked four in a fine display for the Lions as they went on to win by 58 points.
U19 North
Ivanhoe were paid a visit by La Trobe University and after trailing at quarter time, the home side went on to win by 43 points in a professional display with 10 players getting on the score sheet kicking a major. Old Geelong made the shortest trip in the section along Alexandra Avenue to MHSOBs and the OG’s could go home happy with an 83 point win, led by Karey Taylor who kicked six. Williamstown CYMS had a good win at Therry Penola by 23 points after trailing their hosts by 10 points at the final change. Christian Wiltshire was best for the CY’s.
U19 South
Hampton Rovers suffered at the hands of Peninsula with many of their better players playing senior football. Peninsula enjoyed a 98 point win with 10 players kicking goals in a great team performance. De La Salle produced another splendid performance to outplay an undermanned Beaumaris and win by 129 points at home. Matt Hogan with six and Jamie Smith with four goals were the standouts up forward whilst Todd Richardson was great for four quarters. St Bedes / Mentone Tigers ran over the top of Monash Blues despite a seven goal haul from Chris Wheeler for the Blues. The Tigers had dual targets in Jordan Young and Micahel O’Connor who both bagged six goals each in the 86 point win.  Parkdale Vultures had a solid hit-out against St Mary’s Salesian in their 17 point away win. Jackson Boland slotted five for the visitors whilst Bronson Mungatopi was named best for the home team.

21.07.2012
U19 Report
We had hopes that this column would be filled with the glowing praise of our U19 representative side this week after we had shown our peers from the VCFL how to play football last Sunday. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be. The VCFL were too strong for our representative team with the difference only highlighted in the final quarter. Trailing by 11 points at three quarter time, the VAFA eventually lost by 50 points. An on that note we cast our eyes back a day earlier to the club football results.
U19 Premier
Old Melburnians and University Blues kicked off proceedings on Sunday as the only game with a pre-midday start. The battle of the picket fenced grounds was held at the Junction Oval this time and the home team kicked nine-goals-to-one in the second half to turn a 14 point deficit into a full time margin of 40 points. Justin De Steiger and Harry Michaelmore were amongst a handful of players that kicked a couple of goals and were named best. Beaumaris jumped St Bernards at home and whilst the Bernies fought back for the rest of the day, catch up football was difficult in windy conditions but they ultimately fell short by a goal. In the record books it will go down as a win to St Bedes / Mentone Tigers by eight points over Old Scotch but it was inaccurate kick by the Tigers that prevented this from being a bigger margin. Alex Whalebone had BOG honours whilst Ed Walmsley managed four majors for the Cardinals. Top Side De La Salle had no issues with bottom side Uni Blacks. Blacks had 77% of their score in the first quarter in a tough day for the Uni boys, whilst De La kicked five, five, eight and six goals in each term to win by 151 points. Charlie Haley made it to double figures this week with 10 after his nine the previous week. Old Xaverians account for Fitzroy comfortably in a 61 point win.
U19 Section 2
Caulfield Grammarians replaced Werribee Districts in third spot by defeating the Tigers by two goals. The win draws them level on points with Werribee but a superior percentage sees them in third with the Tigers now back in fourth. Old Haileybury missed a chance to join those two on seven wins when they lost at St Kevins by 31 points. The Bloods drop to fifth with that result and now have another competitor for finals action in Old Trinity who hung on to beat Old Carey by just two points at home. Carey kicked more goals but Trinity had more scoring shots in a contest that Carey led by nine points going into the final quarter. The final game wasn’t as close as the previous four games with Old Brighton giving Marcellin a touch up on their home turf by 82 points. Michael Tregear was lively kicking seven and Marshall Pascoe kicked three but you could throw a blanket over a host of players for the visitors as to who was best.
U19 Section 3
St Bernards got the day underway in the early start hosting Old Xaverians. Perhaps the boys were keen to enjoy the festivities of the club’s legend’s match later on, as they went down by 19 points to the visitors in a low scoring affair. Old Camberwell were at home to PEGS and those at Gordon Barnard will remember the bag of 10 that James Howells managed in an exhibition of forward play. For PEGS Duishan Perera was best in the 52 point loss. Northern Blues prevailed over Mazenod by just seven points in the top of the table clash. Mazenod will rue this one as a wasted opportunity kicking 5.15 to 8.4 but will feel confident against the Blues come finals time. Collegians came to play at Ormond giving them a touch up by 128 points. I am led to believe that Collegians supporters had the line to Gordon Barnard open to see if Sam Hibbins’ 10 would be the bag of the day. Alas Hibbins had more team mates kicking goals had to settle for being equal best with  Howells on the day.
U19 South
After a mountain of feedback appreciating that South came before North we will back up looking at this section first again. There were two close games two not so close. Hampton Rovers managed to double the club’s win tally for the year with a stirring win at St Bedes / Mentone Tigers by a goal. The Rovers have some good young talent but it was their more even spread of goal kickers that saw them over the line. A great result for the club. Monash Blues hosted St Mary’s Salesian and enjoyed the fruits of home ground advantage holding on for a nine point win. Peninsula made one of their shorter trips up to Beaumaris and won comfortably to defeat the home side by 70 points. Tom Shayler managed five goals and he was supported by Hayden Brodie who kicked four. For the vanquished, Kyle Mcdonagh managed to kick four. Parkdale Vultures and De La Salle completed the matches for the round with the Vultures having a strong win over De La 104 to 32 with Sean Hendricks best for the Vultures.
U19 North
Old Geelong hosted Therry Penola to clear the dew from Como Park at 9.20 and a thriller was played out with the home side getting up by three points. Karey Taylor slotted five for the homeside but he was outdone by the visiting Hayden Rowe who grabbed six goals.  There was a point the difference at quarter time, scores level at half time and Therry had 13 point lead going into the final break. However they couldn’t hold on with the OGs kicking five-goals-to-three in a pulsating final term. Williamstown CYMS had a good day at the office to defeat La Trobe University by 53 points at home. Whilst Ivanhoe have another goal kicker in their midst with Jai Swainger slotting seven majors on the way to a 104 point win over MHSOBs. MHSOBs were two players short all day so it was a good effort to kick five straight goals against the rampant Ivanhoe.

07.07.2012  Andrew Leonard
Fitzroy up against a Wall
U/19 Premier
Beaumaris hosted De La Salle at Banksia Reserve and with weather conditions better than expected; the fireplace in the famed club rooms wouldn’t have been required in the early part of the day.
Beaumaris couldn’t quite start the fire on the football field either as only De La Salle’s inaccuracy ensuring that the margin wasn’t bigger at the end. Charlie Hailey’s five was the standout performance in the 44 point win.
The talent that St Bedes / Mentone Tigers usher into amateur football has never been in doubt and it was on display in their thumping 20 goal win over Old Melburnians. The Tigers had 15 goal kickers for the day (check the record books!) with Charles Kinsey kicking three.
Old Scotch hosted Old Xaverians at Camberwell and couldn’t stop 10 players kicking goals for the Xavs on their way to 10 goal win. Xavs skipper Cauley Beetham was sublime all day. In the University grudge match it was the Blue change rooms who got to sing loudest on Saturday, consigning their next door neighbours to a 77 point loss. For Blues, Anhus Johnstone kicked six majors.
In the final game of the day, St Bernards entertained a spirited Fitzroy who matched it with locals for three quarters. After a goalless first quarter from both sides, the Snowdogs kicked into gear piling on eight goals to one in the second term to establish a match winning lead.
The rest of the day was largely even contest, but with a player like St Bernards’ David Wall kicking a bag of nine, the ‘Roys were up against it, eventually falling by 52 points.
U/19 Section 2
Werribee Districts had a strong win against Old Brighton with Mikhal Secoulidis having a great day bagging 4. The two Matthew’s, Turner and Despott were best for Werribee as they ran out winners by 16 points.
Old Haileybury hosted Old Carey at McKinnon, with Matthew Mitchel managing to kick seven to take his season tally to 38 for the year.
He was ably assisted by Steve Kenworthy who kicked three on the way to the Bloods winning by 55 points over the Panthers.
In the tight contest of the day it was Caulfield Grammarians inaccurate kicking that cost them the win against Marcellin. Trailing by 22 points at quarter time the Fielders gradually worked their way back into the game but 2.7 and 2.5 in the middle quarters cost them in the end with a final margin of just five points.
In a physical battle at Trinity Sports Grounds, St Kevins kicked away from Old Trinity after trailing at quarter time. From there they kicked 13 goals to 5 to win by 43 points, Lachlan Nankervis was great slotting six for Skevs, whilst Ted Mitchell’s five in a losing side was a great performance.
U/19 Section 3
PEGS made the short trip to their neighbours St Bernards and it bore fruit for the visitors. Liam Sutawan was a dominant player kicking six helping PEGS to a 59 point win.
With nine goal kickers Mazenod were too strong for Ormond as they came to town, collected four points and went home. The array of goal kickers was complemented with the number of multiple goal kickers.
Five to Nick Jack, Four to Jake Davis, three to Lachie Mann and two to Liam Riley ensure there were many avenues to goal for the visitors. Collegians had a solid home win against Old Camberwell by 41 points.
For the second week in a row the U19 state squad member Lindsay Apted put his hand up with a best on ground performance, managing two goals in the process.
Sam Hibbins kicked four for the Lions whilst Xavier Troy was named best for the visitors. Northern Blues had a win for the ages defeating Old Xaverians by 128 points. Eight players kicked multiple goals for the Blues, half of whom managed at least four. Jake Powell (5), James King (4), Daman Maroon (4) and Moustafa Hammoud (4) were all excellent for the Blues, whilst best for Xavs was Sam Grigg.
U/19 North
Old Geelong had a good win against Williamstown CYMS who struggled on the wide open Como Park. Charlie Barham (3) kicked as many goals as Williamstown CYMS could manage for the day. But it was the eight other goals kickers that did the damage to the CY’s.
Therry Penola and Ivanhoe played out the match of the day. One point separated the sides a quarter time. Therry managed an 11 point lead at the main break and held on to that lead at three quarter time.
However a final quarter burst of 3.2 to one behind allowed Ivanhoe to run over the top and win by eight points. Playing against 15 players was always going to be easier than playing against 18 let alone 22.
We must applaud both teams as neither had a bench but more importantly congratulate Emmaus St Leo’s for sending out their team against La Trobe Uni. In the end the result doesn’t really matter 224 to 0 is not something that anyone will remember fondly as a spectacle.
Five players kicked more than four goals each with Tom Williams kicking seven for La Trobe, but it will be the efforts of the brave 15 from Emmaus St Leo’s that will be remembered from this game. MHSOBs had the bye.
U/19 South
Peninsula had a good win against Monash Blues, but it could have been great. Inaccuracy marred the performance with Peninsula kicking 7.18 for the morning. In a low scoring encounter the Blues at home fell 21 points short of Peninsula. Parkdale Vultures went to Banksia reserve and beat up on Beaumaris by 73 points. Jackson Boland was magnificent kicking six goals for the visitors.
After reaching the dizzying heights of obtaining the club’s first win last week, Hampton Rovers couldn’t quite repeat the dose. They travelled to St Mary’s Salesian and put on a good display only falling away in the final term when St Mary’s booted eight goals to two to finish with a 48 point win.
De La Salle hosted St Bedes / Mentone Tigers at Darling Park and with five multiple goal kickers were too strong for the Tigers. De La running out winners by 53 points mainly thanks to Hamish Curtis and Sam Harrington.

30.06.2012  Andrew Leonard

U/19’s
With the under 19 representative team being selected, the lucky ones to have been chosen for Big V honours could enter the weekend knowing a good performance could secure their spot for the match on 16th July.
U/19 Premier
Old Melbournian host Old Scotch at Albert Park and the Cardinals had a big win over a team that was 2 games clear of them before this contest. You wouldn’t have thought so as Scotch piled on the goals in a 77 point win. University Blues won at home over Beaumaris by 39 points with Smith and Johnstone both kicking three for the winners and Matt Zangi with the same number for the vanquished.
There were more lopsided results as Old Xaverians crushed Uni Blacks by over 30 goals. For Xavs, Rob Ralph and Steven Berengo kicked 15 between them with eight and seven respectively.  St Bedes Mentone Tigers issued a similar hiding to Fitzroy although the margin in this instance was restricted to just under 20 goals, with 13 Tigers booting a major.
The final game of the round was a tighter contest but that didn’t De La Salle from their winning ways with a comfortable win at home over St Bernards by 27 points. For the travelling Snowdog pups, James Bennie was named best whilst Charlie Hayley kicked five for the winners.
U/19 Section 2
The trip to Bulleen was a fruitful one for Werribee Districts as they managed to hold out Old Carey by 20 points in a high scoring encounter, especially so considering the low scores at all other grounds. The lead was established in the first term, slightly extended at the main break and remained pretty much the same for the rest of the day.
St Kevins secured the four points at Glenhuntly with Caulfield going down at home by 16 points.
Old Brighton suffered their first loss of the season against Old Haileybury. The Bloods now within striking distance of the four. In the game that both clubs could walk to but probably never do, Old Trinity popped over the fence to Marcellin, stole the four points from their backyard and quickly scurried back to have of Greener fields.
U/19 Section 3
In the early match at 9.20am – reminding both teams of their true junior days – PEGS hosted Collegians and they may as well have stayed in bed. The Lions romped to a 62 point win with Sam Hibbins and James Dougherty booting 3 goals each and state selection Lindsay Apted doing his selection chances no harm kicking 2 and being among the best.
Mazenod had a triumphant day defeating Old Xavs by 83 points with Louis Greco kicking a handful.
Old Camberwell taught St Bernards a lesson with they visited Gordon Barnard Reserve with a comprehensive 145 point win. For the Wellers Nick Adamson bagged eight.
U/19 North
Ivanhoe have proven to be the strongest team in this section to date and whilst made to work hard they managed to run out 28 point winners over the visiting Old Geelong. MHSOBs played hosts to La Trobe University and they were a little more accommodating than they might have preferred. albeit in the close one of the day.
La Trobe getting the chocolates by nine points aided by nine goals between Tom Williams (5) and Mitchell Gleeson (4) with Declan Ryan also having a great day.
Emmaus St Leo’s hosted Therry Penola at Bennettswood Sports Ground and for Therry is was a trip worth making. Therry Penola had solid contributions all around the ground but if names are to be put up in lights then look no further than Sean Rees, Lachie Stretton and Daniel McCracken.
With AJAX no longer fielding a side Williamstown CYMS had the bye.
U/19 South
For much the same reason that the weekend golf hacker keeps coming back when they shoot 100 but manage to scorch their last drive of the day right up the middle, so to do football clubs rejoice when a drought breaking win is achieved. The perceived strength of a club is often determined by their under 19 program, and when your under 19’s secures the clubs first win of the 2012 season you have reason to celebrate. Football is worth it after all.
Hampton Rovers Football Club would have had a few smiles around the club on Saturday night. Their 19’s had done them proud. Winning at home against Beaumaris by – does it matter? Well yes it does – they won by 48 points, becoming the first senior team to win on the new surface at Boss James Reserve. Oh to hear the song be sung.  In other games Parkdale Vultures won at Monash Blues by 32 points. De La Salle triumphed at home to Peninsula by 15 points and St Mary’s Salesian defeated St Bedes / Mentone Tigers by double their score 141 -70.
Finally, any young up and coming, aspiring writers or journalists that haven’t been scared off from the profession by the situation at Fairfax please contact Andrew Leonard at the VAFA about writing the U/19 report each week. Andrew can be contacted by email at [email protected]