MPNFL 2021: Mornington edges clear of Chelsea for crucial win

The Bulldogs’ pups stepped up to help an injury-depleted Mornington secure a gritty win in MPNFL Division 2.

Mornington’s Matty Caine is about to pounce on the ball against Chelsea. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Mornington has well and truly regained that winning feeling.

After being relegated from the MPNFL’s top division, the Bulldogs have made a strong start in Division 2 season — hurrying to a 5-2 record.

Finals are again on the radar for the former Peninsula football powerhouse.

Mornington’s 10-point win over Chelsea on Saturday was full of grit after the Bulldogs went into the game without a raft of key players.

Virtually their starting midfield, including Chris Baker, Will Lewis, Kalen Bird and Nath Heath, was out due to injury.

So, too, were key men Lachie Susovich, Josh Harrington and Warwick Miller.

Yet, Mornington — fuelled by its next wave of exciting young players — was able to turn a 15-point quarter-time deficit into a rousing 10-point win, 9.7 (61) to 7.9 (51), at Chelsea.

Mornington defender Jai Richardson spoils his Chelsea opponent. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Mornington coach Simon Goosey poured praise on his entire side, especially its young, undersized backline led by Matty Caine and Jai Richardson.

“I was rapt with the way we could rally,” Goosey said.

“The whole backline, like Matty Caine and Jai Richardson, they played undersized — they’re probably half back flanker size — and they really stepped up and showed the way.”

First-gamer Ryan Falvo impressed in the midfield, booting a goal and being named in the best players for the Bulldogs.

“Everyone contributed which we needed to on the day,” Goosey said.

“We spoke about that, what it probably required was more how we played the game than who we had in.

“And everyone did play a role. It was good.”

Bryce Dinger takes a kick.

Jackson Calder on the move. Pictures: Valeriu Campan

Todd Paganoni, Adrian Speedy and Jake Smart also featured strongly in the win, while key forwards Jackson Calder (three goals) and Matt North (two) made the most of their opportunities.

Mornington will regain players in the coming weeks, although Baker and Lewis have long-term injuries.

Mornington coach Simon Goosey gets his point across. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Goosey said the Bulldogs, equal second on the ladder, would aim to bank as many early wins as possible.

“It’s an interesting year, sides are going to go through injuries,” he said.

“We’ve had our share, hopefully things get better.

“I suppose coming off Covid...it’s like having a year’s lay-off...it’s a fair bit to take on the body.

“It’s how you manage the players.

“Sides no doubt will manage players differently at the back end (of the season), I think.

“It’s going to be important if you can get those early wins and set yourself up, you can afford to rest players.”

Mornington’s next two games — against Crib Point and Langwarrin — are at home.

Chelsea has lost its past two games to slip to eighth spot, with a 3-4 record. The Seagulls’ best players were Jason Clark, Lachlan Baum and Jake Spasevski.

They meet Tyabb on Saturday.