The Big V were able to reverse 2013’s 18-point loss to Combined Universities in dominant fashion when they ran over their Irish opponents by 78 points at St Patrick’s College, University of Ireland.
Michael Barnes was awarded the Spirit of the Big V for his dominant all-round display through the midfield, while the ever-reliable Matt Handley led from the front with seven goals.
While the defenders did not get to see too much of the ball throughout the match, Big V forwards, Ash Viney, Jamie Mugavin and Handley, made the most of the consistent forward entries with Viney lighting the ground up as he kicked the goal of the tour.
University Blues star, Jeremy Mugavin, was nominated as skipper for Game Three and led courageously as he racked up disposals at will and inspired his chargers to the overwhelming victory.
With a multitude of highlights to choose from, Tom Sullivan returning from an ankle injury and running out the game ranked right at the top for the Big V, with the midfield dynamo crucial to the VAFA’s chances of victory in the ensuing two matches of the tour.
The Big V will next compete with the round ball against Donaghmore/Ashbourne, a team they’ve defeated twice from their two clashes, but by just a combined 10 points in two hard-fought affairs.
Sitting 2-1 after their first three matches, the Big V will be looking to finish their Ireland tour with a win against Donaghmore/Ashbourne before jetting to London to face the AFL Great Britain side.
The VAFA would like to extend its thanks to the University of Ireland for hosting the match and look forward to reigniting the rivalry in two years’ time.