1st XVIII report (June 4): New-look SPC team wins

June 3, 2015

New look team delivers strong result

By XAVIER CAREY

St Patrick’s College 14.7 (95) d Ballarat Grammar 5.5 (35)

Goal Kickers: Mickitja Rotumah-Onus 4, Xavier Carey, Leslie Moroney, Billy Griffiths, Jarrod Illig 2, Jordan Johnston, Jett Hermann 2-

Best Players: Liam Howarth, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Cameron Pither, Leslie Moroney, Ambrose Gillett

A new-look St Patrick’s College 1st XVIII side has had a comprehensive victory over Ballarat Grammar School running out victors 14.7 (95) to 5.5 (35).-

SPC came into the match playing eight debutants including three Year 10s in Nick Canny, Nick Stuhldreier and Jordan Johnston. All eight debutants certainly held their own.-

The young and inexperienced Paddies took a little while to settle into the game, however a slick handball from Jarrod Illig to Jordan Johnston ensured the favourites got back on track. They did not look back from there.

Further goals from Xavier Carey, Mickitja Rotumah-Onus and Leslie Moroney helped secure a handy four-goal lead at quarter time.-

Rotumah-Onus deservedly captained the side for the first time and proved to be the perfect on-field example.-

He led from the front, gathering plenty of contested possessions, running ragged on the outside and also kicking four goals before being rested in the last quarter.-

Liam Howarth also contributed immensely to SPC’s dominance, racking up possessions and was very tough in the contest. He was a true competitor.-

Credit to Grammar must be given. They played some fantastic football in parts of the game and will look to keep improving in the short time they have left in the season.-

The game was played in a fantastic manner and the spectators certainly witnessed a tough and contested, yet fast-paced match.-

For St Patrick’s, after today, approximately 70 young men have worn the prestigious green, white and blue jumper in 2015. It is a credit to all involved and to the depth of the football program at St Pat’s. Having so many students have the opportunity to play 1st XVIII football is something of which coach Mr Howard Clark and the rest of the coaching staff must be very proud.-

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