Jay Harmes continued to dominate in the ruck giving the mids first option at the footy.
Silky midfielder Fraser Haintz was untouchable again with multiple centre clearances, thanks to Harmes and accurate delivery into the Saints’ forward line spotting up newly welcomed addition Keegan Doonie.
Doonie was exceptional for the Saints in his first game, landing seven majors for the day.
He was supported by Adrian Pilgram with three goals, with Mason Peters and Fraser Haintz the other multiple goal kickers.
We welcomed Zeke Carruthers, Connor Thornton and Hunter Surrey back into the Saints’ starting lineup, and their inclusion was top tier.
Final score: Berrigan 18.14 (122) def Picola United 2.3 (15).
Reserves
In a see-saw match, both sides matched goal-for-goal the majority of the game.
Not having a bench hurt the Saints in the last half, when Picola was able to get the edge and sneak a few quick goals in the third and final stanzas.
It was a great effort from the Saints.
Rob Ryan kicked two majors for the day and Logan Cooper and Ayden Good dominated all over the ground.
Don Parry also continues to impress with relentless attack for the footy.
Final score: Berrigan 7.2 (44) def by Picola United 9.7 (61).
Thirds
It was a high-pressure and tough game, despite what the final score reflected.
The Saints were a little wasteful in front of goal early on, however they rectified this with seven goals and one behind for the last term.
Tom Baxter was at his best in the ruck, with huge courage from end to end and never gave an inch.
Nick Arnold was also stoic with continuous high pressure efforts resulting in defensive turnovers, and delivered the ball with precision into the forward 50.
Jordan Swann booted eight majors for the day, earning him best on ground accolades.
Final score: Berrigan 15.14 (104) def Picola United 0.0 (0).
Fourths
This was a grand final rematch with some departures and new additions, and it was a very similar case to that of the reserves match.
As a highly contested game of footy, scores were level at the start of the fourth quarter.
Unfortunately, the youngest Saints were unable to get another major over the line.
Jack Phillips scored two majors and Will Batten a single.
Jace Willemsen was elite in the back line having his best game for the season, with plenty of great footy to come from him.
There is also more to come from Dusty Ryan, who never gave up all day, and some younger Saints in Jack Arnold, Zac Monteath and Lucas Swann.
It was a great effort by the young lads.
Final score: Berrigan 3.4 (22) def by Picola United 4.3 (27).
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