MPFNL Division 1: Red Hill closes in on historic finals berth

Red Hill coach Jamie Mollo has outlined how his side will approach the last part of the Mornington Peninsula league Division 1 league season as history beckons.

Red Hill’s Michael Griechen tackles a Langwarrin opponent as Harvey Stuart (left) and Harry Sullivan look on. Picture: Paul Churcher

Red Hill coach Jamie Mollo has declared his side “a definite chance” to play finals with three rounds remaining in the Mornington Peninsula Division 1 season.

The Hillmen are sitting comfortably inside the top five — in fourth spot with an 8-7 record.

And if Red Hill can get there, it will be history in the making.

“Red Hill has never played Division 1 finals — never,” Mollo said.

“We’re confident we can.’’

The Hillmen face 2nd Mt Eliza, 6th Rosebud and 10th Mornington in the remaining rounds and two more wins, possibly even only one, will secure a top-five spot.

“This young group can create history,” Mollo said.

“And they’re really keen on it.

“We don’t want to wait for other results.

“We actually want to put our destiny in our own hands.”

Jonno Ross gets a kick away as he’s tackled by Langwarrin ruckman Matthew Naughton. Picture: Paul Churcher

Red Hill scored a gritty, vital win over Langwarrin, 4.9 (33) to 3.7 (25), in the wet at Lloyd Park on Saturday.

Jonathon Ross was named best afield after being moved into the middle and excelling.

Liam Reilly, Tom Slattery, Shea Mitchell and Dan Frampton were also influential, while Oliver Jackson drilled a goal after the quarter time siren to ignite Red Hill and he finished with three goals.

“Our average age is 24 and our average games is 38,” Mollo said.

“Michael Mock has made a huge difference coming back to us. We’ve got some really good leaders leading the young boys on the field and they’re just getting to work, they’re keen to get something done this year.”

“It’s exciting.’’

In other games:

*Jai Block kicked five goals as Frankston Bombers claimed a crucial win over Mornington, 11.12 (78) to 6.13 (49). Matt Chen, Dylan Garrett, Matthew Harris and Wilson Fletcher were also key contributors for the 5-10 Bombers.

*Dromana put the whip to Sorrento, winning 18.16 (124) to 1.3 (9). Billy Quigley was best-afield while Sam Geurts, Nicholas Collier and Clayton Gay, who kicked four goals, were in everything.

*Former Carlton-listed Fraser Phillips was best-on-ground in Mt Eliza’s win over Rosebud, 7.8 (50) to 4.8 (32).

*Frankston Dolphins forward Josh Butland kicked four goals and Blake Mullane and Luca Goonan ran rampant as Frankston YCW beat Pines, 15.13 (103) to 6.3 (39).