Pearcedale Triumph in MPFNL Semi with Stellar Second Half

In a game of 2 halves, Pearcedale Football Club dominated Somerville Football Club in the second half to to record a hard fought victory in the MPFNL 1st Semi Final at Baxter Park,

13-5-83 to 9-7-61.

With Baxter Park in excellent condition, a huge crowd packed out the venue to witness a traditional clash between fierce local rivals and neighbours.

Prior to the game there was a fitness cloud over key players for both teams which had the potential to influence team structure. For Pearcedale, the competition leading goal kicker in Brett Eddy and fellow forward Mitch Davis failed to overcome injuries and for Somerville, dominant key back Mitch Mantell experienced the same fate. (Luke Burton was injured in the first minute)

In a game of contrasting styles, Somerville made their intentions clear in the first half, with relentless running and quick ball movement resulting in a 13 point lead at the quarter time break and 26 points at half time. By comparison, Pearcedale relied on long kicking to a contest and Somerville was able to shut down their opposition.

In a complete reversal after half time, the Pearcedale players rallied and with aggressive running, faster ball movement and vigorous tackling edged closer with a succession of goals, with Cruiz West and Luke Daniel elite targets in attack.

After a sensational campaign of 8 successive victories against finals aspirants and a last gasp victory in the Elimination Final against Chelsea, Somerville had no answer for the rampant Pearcedale team who grew in confidence and stature as the second half progressed, kicking 10 goals to 2.

It was a fully deserved victory by Pearcedale and they now progress to the Preliminary Final against Devon Meadows next Saturday at Rye.

For Somerville, there is a lot to be proud of. United on and off the field, well coached and administered and backed up by a huge supporter base, sustained success is on the horizon.

Pearcedale best players as nominated by the club:

Huw Jones, Tom Schneider, Luke Daniel, Ryan Bastinac, Jack McGuiness.

Major goal kickers:

Cruiz West 5 and Luke Daniel 3

Somerville best players as nominated by the club:

Jesse Walker Swain, Ben Neilson, Mason de Wit, Lachie Haskett, Oliver Heavey

Senior Qualifying Final:

Frankston Bombers 13-9-87 d Devon Meadows 11-10-76

Senior Reserves:

In a riveting, evenly matched contest, Somerville withstood a late charge from Frankston Bombers to prevail by 4 points. Somerville 12-12-84 d Frankston Bombers 11-10-76.

Frankston takes on Pearcedale in the Preliminary Final next Saturday at Rye while Somerville progress to the Grand Final.