It was a massive test against Katamatite who had only lost one game for the season.
Coming in as the underdogs, the Saints held on to a “be the hunter, not the hunted” mindset and went out onto a hostile Katamatite home ground.
The Saints had a less than ideal first half as Katamatite held a 39 point lead at the main break, and it looked as if Berrigan were down and out … but no-one thought to tell the Saints that.
After half-time the difference in the Saints game was immediately noticeable with some big hits and courageous plays setting the tone early.
The Saints dominated the third quarter, kicking seven goals and only allowing one goal to Katamatite, cutting the home team’s lead to just two points.
The final term was electric, with each side going back and forth and the massive crowd getting vocal as the clock wound down.
The Saints grabbed a late goal through Mitch Reilly that put them ahead with only seconds to go and as they flooded Katamatite’s forward line the siren sounded, handing the Saints a massive three point win over one of the flag favourites.
Harley Middleton starred for the Saints, kicking a flurry of goals in the third quarter, willing the side back into the game.
Zeke Carruthers had the toughest job all day as he was tasked with stopping 217 AFL game star Steven Motlop and after a testing first quarter, Zeke tightened the clamps and made it very difficult for the remainder of the game.
Mitch Reilly stepped up massively in the second half and gave the Saints a reliable option through the midfield.
Matt Ross also deserves a mention. After his first game back from injury, the ruckman hit many perfect taps for the mids.
It was an exhilarating comeback culminating in a very impressive win for the Saints.
Final score: Katamatite 11.8 (74) def by Berrigan 12.5 (77).
Reserves
A tough day for the Saints as again a depleted team showed up to take on a very strong Katamatite.
Though low on numbers, the Saints’ effort was high as it has been all season, despite the disparity on the scoreboard.
There were still standouts in the loss. Noel Baxter was again terrific, as he is still in and under every pack.
Ben Ackerly tried hard down back, Nick Arnold had an impressive game in the ruck, and Adam Fox was terrific as a vocal leader and a reliable midfielder.
Final score: Katamatite 20.21 (141) def Berrigan 0.1 (1).
Thirds
A tough loss again for the thirds.
It was a hard slog on a wet ground and the boys battled it out all day.
Lachy Whelan played well with hard running and Tom Baxter battled it out in the ruck.
Final score: Katamatite 8.5 (53) def Berrigan 6.8 (44).
Fourths
The young Saints travelled to Katamatite and notched up another win.
They started well, but inaccurate kicking kept Katty in it.
Final score: Katamatite 4.3 (27) def by Berrigan 6.11 (47) .
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