MPFNL Division 2: Elwood, Jet and Sunny Peckett among Bonbeach’s best in win over Karingal

Adrian Connolly explains why he’s resigned as Bonbeach coach, while a young Shark elevated his game into the MPFNL’s “elite category”.

Adrian Connolly coaching Bonbeach this season. Picture: Valeriu Campan

A moment earlier in the season reaffirmed Adrian Connolly’s belief that his four-year reign as Bonbeach coach was coming to an end.

Connolly tendered his resignation in recent weeks and will finish up at season’s end.

He’s hinted that he might be interested in coaching another club next year.

It’s understood Bonbeach has already begun the process to find Connolly’s replacement.

“When I got reappointed I told the committee that most likely this would be my last year,’’ Connolly said.

“And I told (club president) Paul (Smith) halfway through the year that I would be finishing up, and I’ll just see what happens next year.

“I love the Peninsula footy, I’ve really enjoyed it, it’s been great actually going to Division 2, meeting coaches and seeing different clubs.

“I’ll just see what happens at the end of the year. I’ve been doing it for 23 years now.’’

Jet Peckett has taken his game to another level this season. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Connolly said he felt Bonbeach’s players needed “a fresh voice’’.

“I felt earlier in the year some of the boys who had heard my message and voice for four years, I reckon to be fair to them, they needed a fresh set of eyes and a fresh voice and I just thought it was right for them and right for me,” Connolly said.

“The club has been supportive, the players have too.

“I promised them I’d be passionate to the end and I think I’m doing that. We’re still working towards making Bonbeach footy club better every week. That’s a positive.”

Connolly’s Sharks scored their fifth win of the season on Saturday, beating Karingal by 25 points, 13.9 (87) to 9.8 (62).

Elwood Peckett, back from the Stingrays, was outstanding in the midfield, the 18-year-old capping a best-on-ground performance with three goals.

His brother Jet was also influential, and according to Connolly, has taken his game to a new level this season.

“I reckon Jet has put himself into that elite category in our comp this year, he’s just got better and better,’’ he said.

Putting icing on cake, Bonbeach had Sunny Peckett back from a hamstring injury and he played well on Karingal’s Harry Van Raay down back.

The three brothers are sons of former St Kilda star Justin, who coached and played at Karingal.

Bonbeach captain Beau Bailey was also outstanding, and Tom Hogan kicked three goals. Sam McIlwain was also among the best.