‘Disaster’: MPFNL scoreboard controversy breaks hearts

An epic MPFNL clash between Frankston YCW and Sorrento ended in confusion as officials deliberated over the final result in dramatic circumstances.

Blake Mullane of the Stonecats handballs. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

It was a rollercoaster of emotions in the five or so minutes after the final siren sounded at Frankston YCW on Saturday.

The scoreboard showed the Stonecats and Sorrento had drawn after an epic MPFNL Division 1 contest in the rain and wind at Jubilee Park.

But, after goal umpires consulted with game officials, the score was changed to show Frankston YCW had won by a point, 10.10 (70) to 10.9 (69).

Worse still, scores on PlayHQ had Sorrento winning by a point, exciting Sharks fans who weren’t at the game.

It was a bitter blow to Sorrento, which was trying to claw its way into the top five.

Sorrento playing-coach James Hallahan said while disappointed his side didn’t win or draw, he was proud of the Sharks’ performance.

“I think YCW knew (they won) because a few of their players were saying, ‘nah, nah we’ve won by a point’, and that’s when I thought I don’t think we’ve won,” Hallahan said.

“Not that it changes much. We thought it was a draw for the last two or three minutes (and) we were doing everything we could just to even get a point.

“We had opportunities, we kicked 3.5 in the last (quarter)…look, it’s little moments isn’t it.”

Ryan Clarke kicked three goals for Sorrento. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Sorrento supporters at the ground took it hard. “They were like, ‘yeah, it’s frustrating we didn’t quite win, but two points is two points’, and then they changed the score…it was just a disaster,’’ Hallahan said.

Hallahan added: “I got back to my phone and I had maybe five or six texts from Sorrento people who didn’t get to the game and they were like, ‘we’re so proud, well done, great win’. And I had to say, ‘no, scores were wrong, we actually lost by a point’.’’

Blake Mullane and Patrick Bloink (three goals) were best for Frankston YCW, which improves its record to 11-3, cementing in second spot.

For Sorrento, ex-AFL man Ryan Clarke booted three goals, forward-turned-defender Bailey Holt did a fine job on Stonecats forward Riley D’Arcy and Charlie Stokes continued his rich vein of form.

“It was an awesome game of footy, played in the right spirit,” Hallahan said.

“Geez, they (YCW) are a good side. We think they’re probably the best side in it, no disrespect to Rosebud but, gee, the way that they’re able to find a way at all times, and they’re just so structured and disciplined.”

Sorrento, 6-8, is in seventh spot and Hallahan says the Sharks can still make finals.

“There are four games to go, and fourth and fifth spots are wide open,’’ he said.

“It’s going to come down to the last round again I think.’’

TIGERS TAME LANGY

Dromana climbed to fifth spot after kicking the last three goas to beat Langwarrin by 20 points, 9.5 (59) to 6.3 (39). Billy Quigley returned from three months on the sidelines to kick two goals, and Nathan Higgins also slotted two majors for the Tigers, who counted Billy Geurts as their best player. Langwarrin slipped to seventh spot.

WHITES STAR IN BUDS WIN

Brothers Callum and Mitch White booted three goals apiece to fire Rosebud to victory over Edithvale-Aspendale, 15.11 (101) to 11.15 (81). Campbell Hustwaite, Stephen Cumming and Liam Tidd were also among the best for the Buds, who are 12-2 and a game clear on top.

PINES BANK CRUCIAL WIN

Cameron Olden kicked two goals and Jarrod Gatt was named Pines’ best-afield as the Pythons overpowered Red Hill 7.6 (48) to 5.9 (39). Pines (7-7) are in sixth spot.

REDLEGS TOO GOOD

Mt Eliza climbed to fourth spot with a 14.13 (97) to 7.10 (52) win over Mornington. Will Antonie was named best-afield for the Redlegs, while Fletcher Bayne also impressed and Damian Mascitti kicked three goals.