James Murphy
MILLICENT 7.9 (51) d NORTH GAMBIER 2.9 (21)
IN less than ideal conditions, Millicent fended off a determined North Gambier to keep its undefeated 2023 campaign intact.
It took until the later stages of the match to shake off the Tigers, who matched it with the Saints up until half time.
The muddy ground made for a tough contest and after the opening quarter there had been a single goal at either end.
That trend continued in the second term with North claiming the lead until a goal from Millicent young-gun Kade Varcoe put the Saints up in the back end of the quarter.
At half time the hosts led 18-15.
The low-scoring affair continued in the “premiership” quarter with the Saints adding one-goal-two to the Tigers’ three behinds.
The match remained in the balance but the hosts found another gear in the final stanza to put the result beyond doubt.
An impressive four-goal term to finish things off pushed out the scoreline of an otherwise close game and at the final siren the Saints secured a 30-point win.
Turnovers caused some issues for the Tigers in the second half.
They had turned the ball over just eight times at the main break, but 19 turnovers in the last two quarters ultimately told the story of the match.
Off the back of a best Under 21 Interleague performance, Varcoe put in another strong display.
He earned the best-on-ground honours for his efforts through the midfield.
Kade Bradley also continued his purple patch of form with his usual prowess across half-back, while brother Frazer Bradley earned a mention as well.
Caleb Williams, Zac McGuinness and coach Clint Gallio rounded out the best in a day where silky skills came second to grit and determination.
In front of goals it was Mitchell Reilly who led the charge with a game-high three majors, while Tom Renzi bagged two.
The Tigers looked again to Sam Stafford who put in another best-on-ground performance.
His skills stood out in the wet, as did those of Nick McInerney and Jake Schutz.
Goals from Jordan Hollitt and Deacon Ilsley were the only successes on the day, while nine behinds reflected the challenges of the conditions.
Next week North will look to bounce back against East Gambier, while Millicent hosts Casterton Sandford in what should shape up to be the Saints’ ninth win on the trot.
