The game started with extremely high pressure, and Katunga used their speed to their advantage, only to get held up by the Berrigan back six.
This became a theme for the whole match as Katunga looked to score on the run, although the Saints’ set-up behind the ball interrupted their play.
Scores were close in the first quarter, but Katunga got a break before half-time.
In the third term, they began to pull away and put multiple goals on the board, though the Saints fought valiantly to the final siren.
Grant Martin, Kyle Mcqualter, and Matt Heazlewood were instrumental down back, with Martin and Heazlewood using their bigger frames and experience to accumulate many intercept possessions.
Meanwhile, Mcqualter used his slick and smart ball use to start the counterattack from the defensive 50.
Lochie Schifferle picked up many possessions, and Jordan Bird continued his good form up forward, adding another three goals to his impressive tally for the year.
Captain Angus Coldwell led by example with a courageous display of clearances, groundball-gets and bone-crunching tackles.
Although not the results the seniors had hoped for, the improvement from last year is evident, which shows they are not that far off one of the premier sides.
Final score: Berrigan 6.6 (42) def by Katunga 13.13 (91).
Reserves:
The Berrigan Reserves came out running, looking invigorated and hungry for another win.
The Saints were off to an impressive start with superb ball use and a goal-hungry forward line.
Steve Morgan and Ben Fox made their first appearance for the Saints in their 2024 campaign, creating a dynamic full-forward trio along with Brad Loats.
Morgan and Loats were terrific marking targets, with Fox using his superior leg speed to be front and centre for any spilled marks.
Matt Ross and Kyle Hawker proved to be a colossal ruck/mid duo as Ross dominated the ruck hitouts all day, and Hawker found himself with plenty of the footy.
Adam Fox continues to show that age doesn’t limit him, as he once again didn’t miss a beat in the midfield, using his leadership to help the youthful Saints’ side.
Troy Poynton and Henry Zorzer continued their strong form.
The reserves scored a 37-point win and have an impressive 3-0 record to start the year.
Final score: Berrigan 12.5 (77) def Katunga 6.4 (40).
Fourths:
The young Saints had another win, this time against Katunga, to keep their 2024 undefeated record intact.
Jack Magill was back to his best, playing with pace and agility, which made him extremely dangerous and lively around the contest.
Tom Baxter showed great determination, battling hard in the ruck all day and is the ultimate team player with his continued second and third efforts.
The pressure was high for the Saints as Katunga well and truly brought their best.
However, even some of the youngest Saints, such as Dusty Ryan, Kobe Smith and Patty Arnold, showed excellent composure as their skills and confidence developed.
The fourths have been a highlight of the Berrigan Football Club over the past few years.
Their success and the top-notch way they carry themselves on the field.
Final score: Berrigan 5.6 (36) def Katunga 3.2 (20).
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