MPNFL 2021: Bonbeach beats Edi-Asp to consolidate third spot

A former St Kilda player is fast becoming the recruit of the season in the MPNFL — but the position he’s playing might surprise some.

Bonbeach’s former AFL man Sam Gilbert was impressive again on Saturday. Picture: Valeriu Campan

One of Bonbeach’s most exciting young players has been cleared of serious injury after being knocked out in the Sharks win over Edi-Asp on Saturday.

Jack Sullivan had to be stretchered off after a heavy collision late in the third quarter.

He spent 24 hours in hospital before being released on Sunday.

“They were worried about his neck and also a broken jaw,” Bonbeach coach Adrian Connolly said.

“But there are no broken bones…just a heavy concussion.”

Bonbeach had 25 scoring shots after half-time to clear out for a 68-point win, 15.26 (116) to 7.6 (48).

The win consolidated third spot for the Sharks in MPNFL Division 1.

Bonbeach players sing the song for the sixth time this season. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Former St Kilda 208-gamer Sam Gilbert continued his red-hot form, this time in the ruck. He was better known as a defender during his AFL days.

“Gilbert was phenomenal in the ruck,” Connolly said.

“I don’t know how many clearances he had but he would’ve had a stack.”

Connolly said Gilbert’s ability to cover a lot of ground and his “elite” work rate made him a stand-out in the MPNFL.

“One minute he’s taking a mark in the backline and the next he’s marking in front of goals,” Connolly said.

Bonny’s Jack Sullivan is attended to.

Sullivan is stretchered off. Pictures: Valeriu Campan

Gilbert’s ex-Saints teammate David Armitage has also impressed for Bonbeach this season but missed Saturday’s game as he welcomed a baby daughter into the world.

Lachlan Stenning, Shane McDonald and Jackson Casey were named the Sharks three best players in the win over Edi-Asp, while defenders Matt Douglas and Ben McLean again were rock solid.

Connolly also praised Trent Dennis-Lane, who played more up the ground this week, on a wing.

“He helped change the momentum,” Connolly said.

Jo Fisscher was a constant target up forward, booting five goals, while small forward Jason Carter impressed in only his second game.

Bonbeach vice-captain Owen Hulett played his first game for the season in the reserves and will come under consideration for a call-up to the seniors in the coming weeks.

Bonbeach (6-2) hosts Red Hill (3-5) on Saturday.