It was pleasing to see Blighty give four quarters of effort and nearly take the four points.
Unfortunately, we could not get over the line, but it feels like we are improving each week and are striving for some reward for effort.
Individually, 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
After a run of injuries in the seniors, the reserves lost a midfield and backline to the senior side 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.
We are getting close to getting it right.
Final score: Blighty 5.6 (36) def by Berrigan 11.5 (71).
Thirds
The first quarter was quite competitive. Being quite a hot day, fitness and a few skill errors started to hold us back.
This takes nothing away from Berrigan, which is a very well-oiled side.
The boys did not drop their heads and kept battling all day.
Best on went to Sam Conallin, followed by Will Frost, Xander Strong, Charlie Rennie and Ollie Dunmore.
Final score: Blighty 1.0 (6) def by Berrigan 16.18 (114).
Fourths
Blighty started out a little flat, and 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, we were switched on from the get-go this week.
Our side played with determination and great teamwork, showing off all the hard work they have been putting in.
Our 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.
Awards: Eli, Franklin, Ollie, Ruby and Hunter.
17°C