It was a sad end to a tremendous season for the Berrigan thirds boys, losing in a Picola League elimination final to Strathmerton on Saturday.
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Despite a negative array of numbers on the scoreboard, the Saints spirit was in full swing.
It was a terrific effort for a side that almost did not have the numbers to start the season.
Some new players joined the club - brothers Seth and Griffin Lawrence, Bruce O’Toole, Mason Loomes and Jameson Hawker - and other players like Patrick Waugh gave us a hand in weeks that we were short on numbers.
With players like Xavier Fox, Archie Cameron and Charlton Baxter following in their fathers’ footsteps as Berrigan football greats, the legacy and passion for the Saints lives on in a new era.
Brothers Caleb and Ryan Thornton have been a proud duo down back all year, and in the final on Saturday.
Liam Brown played through injuries as his continued resilience and fearless nature, combined with a community first attitude, quickly saw him become a club and fan favourite.
Seth Henderson had his best game and continues to improve.
Jeremy Packer has been a star in his first year in the thirds, playing as a deadly and athletic key forward.
Harleigh Carter continues to grow as a footballer after being relatively new to the game. His skills are advancing as his confidence grows as well.
The thirds have also benefited from the fourths superstars who double up every week to ensure their older teammates have a reliable side.
A big thank you to Fraser Haintz and Adam Fox for coaching these young lads and helping them to become elite footballers and elite people.
Thank you as well to Zeke Carruthers, Sharon Cameron, Doug Cameron and Jo Cameron for their contributions to the Thirds team.
Final score: Berrigan 5.4 (34) def by Strathy 21.14 (140).
Goals: L Brown 2, S Lawrence, M Loomes, G Lawrence.
Best: J Packer, S Henderson-Cooper, G Lawrence, X Fox, J Magill, A Cameron.
As minor premiers heading into the finals, the fourths will be ready to prove they deserve to be sitting undefeated on top of the ladder when they take on fourth placed Katunga at Blighty this Saturday.
The game begins at 9.30am.
The team will look to their older players in Lachlan Whelan, Jackson Tooke, Harley Cooper, Austin Ware and Zavier Binns to guide them through the nerves and play tough, smart footy.
No doubt Craig and Rory will have the team in peak physical and mental condition to start the finals run.
With the return of their ‘NSW pup’, the boys will be looking to take home the win.
The Berrigan Football Committee would like to congratulate all teams for wearing the red, white and black of the Saints this season.
“We thank you for your dedication and commitment to not only the sport but your teammates you stand beside each weekend,” the club said.
“We also wish to thank every single volunteer who in some way contributed to making each and every Saturday happen.
“Finally to our loyal supporters who turn up - rain, hail or shine - to cheer for our players and club, thank you.”
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