A very undermanned Berrigan seniors side took to the oval on Saturday hoping for a win, and while some players shone bright, most seemed lacklustre.
Adam Way and Hamish Cameron both played with fervour and determination, displaying superior skills and daring for the Saints.
Rory Bartlett, Justin Hoggan and William Gorman played great supporting roles all day but alas it was not enough to bring home the four points.
There is no denying there were flashes of brilliance, especially in the second half of both the first and last quarter, however the Berrigan lads need to put together a solid four quarters to be competitive.
Congratulations to the Thorntons, a long-standing Berrigan Saints family, who had five players represent in the top side — a huge sign of support and dedication to football and Berrigan.
Berrigan favourite and life member Craig Thornton played beside two of his sons, Rory and Conner, as well as nephews Bailey and Caleb.
No doubt this is one for the album.
Final score: Berrigan 12.4 (76) lost to Deniliquin Rovers 17.8 (110).
After charging out of the barriers at first tap out to the half-time siren, the Saints were clear leaders in the reserves match against Deni Rovers.
Fantastic ball play by Saints youngster Darcy Pyle was matched only by his father Stu’s defensive moves and footy IQ.
Consistent on-ball action by Craig ‘Plank’ Glanville, which appeared to all was going to be the death of him, really boosted morale and provided that much needed spark to move the ball forward.
Max Cameron showed all spectators that he would give any position a crack, producing a very creditable performance in his ruck debut for Berrigan.
Adam Fox displayed yet again how he can wind the clock back on the footy field, tackling and picking up loose balls like players half his age.
Ben Fox’s speed in the first quarter could not go unnoticed. Go easy on that ankle, the team needs you moving forward.
Not sure what happened in the second half as the Sainters had a little nap and dropped the pressure to allow the Rovers to come back within three points with 64 seconds remaining.
A misguided kick for goal by the Rovers with 14 seconds to go had Saints supporters holding their breath. It hit the post and the siren sounded to give the Saints the four points and a better chance at playing finals in 2022.
Final score: Berrigan 6.3 (39) defeated Rovers 5.8 (38).
It was another tough day for Berrigan’s thirds team who regardless of their constant display of heart and effort were not able to topple the Rovers.
Hamish Cameron led by example, displaying power, skill and strength for all four quarters.
He fought off wannabe tacklers and busted up packs all to the Saints’ advantage.
Aptly supporting Cameron was Darcy Pyle, who applied constant pressure and presented for the ball time and again all over the oval.
Matt Everingham put in a stellar performance in the mid/defending role, but these accomplishments were not enough to put the side ahead on the scoreboard.
Final score: Berrigan 1.1 (7) lost to Rovers 12.12 (84).
School holidays gave some of Berrigan’s most keen fifths players a chance to strut their stuff on the big stage and take the ground in the fourths.
In a short Saints fourths team — both in numbers and stature — Jeremy Packer stood tall and led all game against the Deni Rovers.
Farron Urrutia found the ball time and again, as did Jordan Swan.
Jack Phillips displayed great determination as the usual forward was moved towards the backline in an attempt to stem the Rovers’ goal spree.
Lachlan Whelan put on a tackling clinic for all those watching and Caleb Litchfield was dependable in defence.
Birthday boy Ben Ferguson made great space and was not fazed by the tall Deniliquin defenders taking them on one-by-one.
Sadly the Rovers were the better team on the day, taking home the win.
Final score: Berrigan 0.0 (0) lost to Rovers 16.16 (112).
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