As the third leg of the under 19’s quaddie got under way on Saturday at the fortress, it was a heated match due to the high stakes. The winners of this muddy battle were to be placed second on the ladder. Old Xavs started off well around the ground, yet unfortunately the hardwork couldn’t be converted, missing six oppurtunities throughout the quarter. This proved to be detrimental to the team throughout the course of the game.

As the second quarter started, the midfield again displayed excellent pressure around the stoppages, yet Old Scotch rose to the occasion and matched us; scoring several unanswered goals. Despite Old Scotch’s firing start to the second quarter, we were able to again find form due to the efforts of Jack Franklyn and Louis Tiernan in the backline, and Daniel Harangozo getting in and under the pack to push the ball forward. We were able to dominate most of the second quarter to bridge the margin and get back in the game.

After a heroic half time speech, the old Xavs came out firing, displaying great pressure throughout the ground. Heesham Nidam was winning plenty of the ball and providing our forwards with plenty of chances, while Dan Cutain was also finding plenty of ball and space as he continuously lost his opponents in traffic. However, this was again matched by Scotch, who on a burst, kicked several more unanswered goals. We were then able to compose ourselves, which then led into a shoot out. Clawing our way back into the third quarter and resembling some what of the Uni Blue’s game, you could see the determination on the boys faces.  Brendan Goss was fantastic all day as he booted another 6 to add to his season tally of 36 goals for the year so far and be topping the Coleman. Often with 2 or 3 opponents on him he was able to find a way to get free on the lead or still provide that contest we were after.

Knowing what was at stake in the fourth quarter, the boys were doing everything to try and gain the upper hand on Old Scotch. Jack Franklyn continued to beat his much hyped and bigger opponent despite giving away plenty of cm on him. His work rate was second to none and not only stopped his man but provided plenty of runs for us from half back. A lapse in concentration around the stoppages saw the opposition gain momentum and kick their way out to display a score that almost looked unmatchable. Never the less, Old Xavs never dropped their heads, showing the spirit of the jumper and were able to score several unanswered goals. All was too late and Old Scotch were victorious.