MPFNL 2023: Nathan Jones chases elusive flag in red and blue of Mt Eliza

A heartfelt speech in the changerooms by the former Melbourne captain left no doubt that he’s invested in Mt Eliza’s premiership quest in MPFNL Division 1.

Nathan Jones is having an impact for Mt Eliza. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Mt Eliza players were putting on their jumpers in the rooms before Saturday’s game when an experienced voice broke the silence.

Nathan Jones wanted to say a few words, and his young teammates were all ears.

The former Melbourne captain, at 35 back playing with his junior club, spoke from the heart, according to Mt Eliza coach Steve Brattle.

“He said, ‘I thought I was going to come here and play one game’,” Brattle said.

“‘The passion you blokes have got for playing and the passion you’ve shown me,’ he goes, ‘I just can’t wait to run out on the ground’.”

Jones has rediscovered his love for football, and it’s showing on the ground.

On Saturday, he played his third game for Mt Eliza to qualify for finals, and it was a beauty.

Jones was named best afield in the Redlegs rousing win over reigning premiers Frankston YCW. It was Mt Eliza’s most significant win for years; against a quality opponent and it also secured a finals berth in MPFNL Division 1.

Moved into the midfield after halftime, Jones instigated several crucial plays that led to goals as the Redlegs overran YC to win 12.12 (84) to 10.8 (68) at Madsen Reserve.

Mt Eliza's young fans cheer on their side on Saturday.

The ground was rocking as the home side stormed home.

“In the last quarter, did you see him?,’’ Brattle said.

“He was running around pumping his fist, mate. He’s loving it.”

Brattle added: “You can’t buy that experience the way he delivered the ball.’’

Jones achieved just about everything during his 302-game AFL career with the Demons, but a premiership eluded him.

This is his chance to get one in red and blue.

“He was telling me last night how he’s trying to get to training...he’s got a whole two week plan…he’s already looking down the track,’’ Brattle said.

“His value is more than just on the field.’’

Mitchell Smith.

Declan Cole.

Mt Eliza’s young players ran rampant in Saturday’s win. Teenager Ziggy Toledo kicked four goals, while Will Lambert slotted two and Mitch Smith impressed. Redlegs co-captain Nathan Scagliarini, Declan Cole and Sam Gill were also in the best.

A finals berth assured, Mt Eliza faces Frankston Bombers in the last round on Saturday. The Redlegs are a chance to finish top-three.

They are also set to regain key players.

Elliott Simmons got back from Europe on Friday and played in the twos, while Fin Bayne flew in from overseas on Sunday.

Brattle said Lachie Williams “might fly back in’’ from overseas, while Justin Davies kicked three goals for Frankston in the VFL on the weekend and will be a welcome addition for the Redlegs in finals.

Will Bravo is set to return from a neck injury and young gun Jasper O’Neill will return to the side for finals.

Mt Eliza players celebrate their win over Frankston YCW on Saturday.

Brattle said the club was on a high.

“All three sides are in the finals, we’re the only club going around who have go all three in there,’’ he said.

Frankston YCW coach Paul Goonan conceded his side wasn’t “playing great footy at the moment’’.

“We’re working on a couple of things and we’re slowly getting there but we’re still not the finished product that’s for sure,’’ he said.

“We’re still trying to find the answers I suppose.’’

Goonan said Jones was influential.

“He moved into the midfield in the second half and I think he definitely had an impact,’’ he said. “He was good, no doubt about it.’’