After last week’s walkover from Marcellin, the Ménages had to wait an extra week to kick-start their campaign for the second half of this season in an eagerly anticipated 1 v 2 clash against an in form De La Salle.

The forecast was ordinary and the ground a mud heap, but the stage was set for a good old fashioned mid season scrap, sure to test the mettle of both sides and an opportunity to measure the resolve of individuals.

Unfortunately, the Ménages didn’t read the script and were comprehensively spanked by a fitter, stronger, more aggressive and more committed De La Salle unit.

The most disappointing aspect of Saturday’s loss was not so much the loss itself but the lack of fight showed by too many Ménage players on the day - disappointing was not an accurate description of the Ménage performance – unacceptable was closer to the mark.

Only a handful of players put their hand up on Saturday and the brothers Grigg - Liam and Tom - were outstanding. Tom, who just loves the contest, was tough, brave and unbeaten all day, not to be outdone by younger brother Liam, who is still recovering from a bad ankle injury sustained earlier in the season, but was courageous and classy and was awarded the Dimmatina Restaurant voucher for BOG.

The ever reliable Rory Lynch continues to perform in big matches and Sam Adams, playing only his second game for the season, showed he has the skills and determination to be part of this team. Tim Trahair and Michael DiPietro were resolute in defence, albeit against a tide of De La forward thrusts.

Saturday’s performance by DeLa has raised the bar in this competition and for the first time this year the character of the 2010 Manage team has been challenged.

But with challenge comes opportunity and the great part about team sports, like football, is the chance next week to redeem ourselves.