Whitefriars’ faint Division 1 finals hopes alive

St Mary’s Salesian backed up their inspired win against Kew last week with an 11-point come-from-behind victory over NOBS/St Pats in a high scoring affair at Alec Gillin Oval. Trailing by 32 at the final change, the Saints kicked eight goals to one in the fourth quarter to record their ninth win of the season.  Gary Puruntatameri led from the front with four majors, while Chris Ford snagged five for NOBS.

Old Geelong moved one step closer to solidifying third position on the Division 1 ladder, defeating Prahran Assumption by 46 points at Como Park. After an even first half, an 11-goal to five final two quarters did the damage for Ogs, including a seven-goal to two third term. Alexander Stewart was named best afield for Ogs, while Callum Wood moved to third on the goal kicking table with another bag of five to his name.

Kew returned to the winners’ list in emphatic style, smashing Old Mentonians by 100 points at Turner Road Reserve. Following two straight losses with key forward Andrew Brazzale sidelined, the dominant big man piled on seven majors in his return. A 14-goal to two opening half put any notion of three straight losses to bed, keeping the Bears a game clear of Ogs in third position on the ladder.

Ormond continue to roll towards the finals after they decimated Bulleen Templestowe by 85 points at E.E. Gunn Reserve. Following an eight-goal opening term, the Monders piled on the goals and finished with 25.21 (177). Jeremy Simon kicked goals in a best-on-ground performance, while Ian Tahana and James Landman registered three each.

Whitefriars kept in touch with the top four following their 79-point win against Yarra Valley at Whitefriars College. 36 scoring shots to 12 was the story of the day, with Andrew Daou the main destroyer with six goals. The win leaves the Friars two games outside the top four, while the Bushrangers face certain relegation in last position on the ladder.