It was a close one for the Berrigan Saints on Sunday, after hosting Blighty FNC.
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Spoilt by another brilliant autumn day, it was fantastic to have such a large crowd for our first game on our home deck.
Fraser Haintz did not disappoint and seemed to have the Sherrin on a string, throwing himself into every contest.
Keith Tallent added another six majors to his tally, while his brother Max landed himself two for the day.
Youngster Kaleb Litchfield took a clutch mark in the dying moments of the match, allowing the Saints to lock another four points in the vault.
It was pleasing to see Blighty give four quarters of effort and nearly take the four points.
Sam Singleton stood up, as did Jack Charlton in the midfield.
Jai Park booted a bag of seven goals and Harley Constable was great in defence but onto the next round.
Final score: Blighty 13.2 (80) def Berrigan 12.17 (89).
Reserves
Berrigan’s ressies banked another four points after coming out 35-point winners over Blighty.
At the main break, Berrigan held a one point lead and needed to find another gear going into the third.
After a run of injuries in its seniors team, the Blighty reserves lost a midfield and backline this week.
Despite this, and losing another couple of key midfielders mid-game, it was a great effort by the boys.
In another improved style performance against a smart Berrigan side, a couple of skills and execution errors let us down. But we can’t fault the effort.
Rusty Milward’s elite clearance worked, and Josh Lindberg super shut down work in the middle was also a great effort.
Jacob and Josh Wawzrycki, down the back and across both flanks, put in big efforts.
Captain Alex O’Brien dug down deep and used his skills.
Final score: Blighty 5.6 (36) def by Berrigan 11.5 (71).
Thirds
Berrigan delivered a dominant performance in the clash against Blighty, running out convincing winners.
From the opening bounce, Berrigan forwards Hudson Ware and Jack Phillips led the charge - Huddo finishing with four goals and Jack with three in an accurate day out.
Taylor Thornton provided support from the forward flank, working hard to create options and apply pressure.
Through the midfield, Lachlan Whelan was influential, consistently winning the ball and driving it forward to give Berrigan control around the ground.
In the ruck, Tom Baxter was outstanding, giving his midfield first use of the ball and working tirelessly around the ground.
His impact in contests and follow-up efforts played a key role in Berrigan’s dominance, while Nick Arnold was a brick wall in defence down back, shutting down attacks and keeping Blighty to just a single score.
Being quite a hot day, Blighty’s fitness and a few skill errors started to hold them back.
The boys did not drop their heads and kept battling all day.
Final score: Blighty 1.0 (6) def by Berrigan 16.18 (114).
Fourths
It was another great win for the youngest Saints.
After witnessing their 2025 premiership flag raised for the day, and a few inspiring words, the excited and inspired youngsters were ready to take the ground.
Berrigan finished with five individual goal scorers for the day, and a nice 24 point victory to set the tone and pace for the day.
Blighty started out a little flat, but by the third quarter they found some fire to give Berrigan some competition.
Andrew Frost tried all day, along with Darcey Cleve. Victor Waweru came up from the fifths and showed no fear.
Best on ground was awarded to Deagan Morgan, and next best went to Daniel Burn.
Tommy Clohesy had a great game, winning the ball and putting pressure on Berrigan.
Harlem Morgan started to find her trademark form with plenty of run and chase, which is always exciting to see.
Deakin Kelly won the good sports award by playing a good defensive role in the back pocket, always listening and doing his best.
Final score: Blighty 4.5 (29) def by Berrigan 8.5 (53).
Fifths
After a bit of a nervous start the week before, Blighty were switched on from the get-go this week.
The Redeyes played with determination and great teamwork, showing off all the hard work they have been putting in.
Its defence worked well together, saving goals. The midfield worked forward and back helping their mates out and the forward line made the most of their opportunities with accurate kicking for goal.
Final score: Not scored.