Saints march on to footy glory

Berrigan’s fourths saved their best performance for last in the Picola & District League grand final at Memorial Park on Saturday.The Saints dominated a previously undefeated Deni Rovers side to claim premiership glory, marching to a 63 point win in the decider.Berrigan put the foot down early with four goals to Deniliquin-based Saint Charlie Bull in the first quarter, leading to a 26 point margin at quarter time.The Saints continued their dominance in the middle of the ground in the second term, keeping the Roos scoreless in the first half to hold a 41 point lead at the main break.The home side tried to fight their way back into the contest in the second half, finally hitting the scoreboard to outscore Berrigan 2.2 to 2.0 but still 39 points behind.With the result beyond doubt, Berrigan continued their dominance in the last, landing with four goals while Deni posted no score.Deniliquin-based onballer Logan Leiper was a clear best on ground for Berrigan, controlling the game with his clearance work in the middle, along with Angus Wright and Marcus Moorse. Other Saints to play well were Charlton Baxter, Xavier Fox and Caleb Thornton.For the Roos, Shaleah Cooper was a standout in defence, along with her sister Jemika Cooper. Liam East, Austin Armytage, Cam Wills and Bobby Hall were also named as better players for Deni.Final score, Berrigan 12.5 (77) to Deni Rovers 2.2 (14).Saints coach Craig Thornton said the key to his side’s victory was getting off to a quick start.‘‘We were on from the initial jump; Deni have a great forward line and jumped us early in both our encounters this season,’’ he said.‘‘Our key from the outset was to get ahead on the scoreboard early so our gameplan focused on that.‘‘It was the right time for everything to come together as we worked on getting a quick start for the last few weeks.‘‘We talked to our backs, mids and forwards separately before the game and each of them had their assignments to focus on.‘‘Deni have a really strong forward pack so we had our backs stay tight on them.’’The Saints squad was a combination of Deni Rams and Berrigan locals.Thornton praised the help of the Deni players and  Rams coach Anthony Bradley. ‘‘Deni boys Logan Leiper, Angus Wright and Marcus Moorse played a big part on the field for us,’’ Thornton said.‘‘Our local boy Charlie Baxter also had a top shelf game.‘‘It was a bit of a struggle at the start of the season to find a balance for playing time for our local and Deni players but to their credit, the Deni boys were patient and mature about the situation.‘‘They helped mentor our younger side a tremendous amount and we will benefit from their guidance next season if all goes back to normal.‘‘Anthony Bradley was also a big help all season so he deserves a great deal of credit.’’Rovers coach Peter Wills said Berrigan were simply too good for his side on the day.‘‘The game was over at quarter time really,’’ he said.‘‘We didn’t play at our best but even if we did, I don’t know if we would’ve been able to knock over the Saints on Saturday.‘‘While it’s always tough to lose like that, everyone appreciated the opportunity to be able to play one more game. ‘‘So many kids have missed out this year, so we’re just pleased to have been able to give our young players this opportunity.’’