Northern Football League

A crucial 51 point win in Round 10 of the 2009 NFL season has given Montmorency a Top Four spot for the first time since Round 3, and reignites their finals' hopes. The Bloods have now got it all to do after a disappointing last quarter fade out.

It was the midfield battle that would decide the game, but in the opening term neither side could gain any control. Trent Boglis got the opener for the Magpies, but a quick reply from Lance Whitnall set the tone for the quarter, with both sides going goal for goal. At the first break, the lead happened to fall Mont's way, a slender one point the difference.

Magpies' coach, Bryan Cole, wanted his side to be more direct when going forward and wanted his side to ensure they were disciplined.

Lalor's on-ballers, headed by Nick Mafilovski, started to gain control in the second stanza, registering the early major through Tristain Harrower. Boglis got the only two goals for the hosts throughout the term, with Steven Marshall restricting the inside 50's for Mont. Andrew Carmusciano registered two late goals for the visitors to stretch the lead out to a three goal margin.

The third term saw four goals within the first four minutes, with two to each side. Sammy O'Meara got his side some breathing space with three inspirational goals soon after, thanks mainly to the hard work of Mark McGough and Daniel Keenan. Whitnall got two majors to level the scores, but a late goal from McGough got the Magpies back the lead heading into the last break - the difference, six points.

Bloods' coach, Stephen Easton, wanted his team to keep up the pressure, and knew that they needed to show all their passion if they were going to get over the line.

With Whitnall off with a hamstring injury, the task was always going to be difficult for the Bloods. They simply got overran in the last quarter with no function up forward. The Magpies piled on nine goals to two in the quarter, three coming from Wayne Pavitt, to finish off with a comfortable 51 point win.

Final scores, Montmorency 23.12 (150) to Lalor 15.9 (99).

Whitnall finished with five goals for the visitors, despite him not seeing any last quarter action. Captain Marshall was yet again best for his side. McGough and Keenan provided when they were needed for the hosts, and were amongst their side's best. Patrick Fitzgerald, Boglis, and Pavitt all scored four majors each for the winners. 

Round 11 could almost be a season defining round for the Bloods, with North Heidelberg heading over for a crucial clash. Montmorency travel to Main Street to face Thomastown.