VAFA 2018: St Bernard’s topples rival contender University Blacks in Premier B

A FEW sore bodies litter St Bernard’s line-up but it will go into this weekend’s competition bye with satisfaction after moving a game clear in first spot on the VAFA Premier B ladder.

St Bernard's skipper Simon Caven grabs a mark. Picture: Chris Eastman

A FEW sore bodies litter St Bernard’s line-up but it will go into this weekend’s competition bye with satisfaction after moving a game clear in first spot on the VAFA Premier B ladder.

The Snowdogs outlasted University Blacks in a top-of-the-table clash on Saturday, prevailing 15.6 (96) to 11.13 (79).

The team enjoyed a scintillating start, reaping the benefits of a strong breeze with seven first-quarter goals at Melbourne University Oval, but captain Simon Caven knew Blacks would fight back given the calibre of their players.

“They challenged us in the second half, especially in the last quarter,” he said.

“I was in the backline during the last quarter and we were under siege for most of it. We were pretty happy when the siren went.”

The home side booted five goals to two in the final term, but never really looked like halting St Bernard’s winning streak, which has now reached double figures.

Caven said a key part of the victory was besting Blacks at their own game.

“I think we’re an in-and-under team, but we were beating them on the outside as well, especially in that first quarter,” he said.

“With both those areas coming together nicely and the forwards were working well together, making the most of quite a few set shots.”

Chad Jones (five) Michael Caven (three) ran amok early, causing havoc with their marking and straight shooting.

“That is the most games he’s played in a season for us,” the skipper said of 34-year-old Jones, whose season tally has now reached 50.

“He is just still so fit and moves so well.

“He is a nightmare for any backman — they are scared of coming up against him.”

Harry Kennedy was another to impress, keeping Lochie Dornauf to one goal.

“It is his first year since coming from Aberfeldie and he has been so good for us in our back line set-up,” Caven said.

Halfback Mitch Hughes is also starting to find his groove after fighting injury earlier in the season.

The Snowdogs sit four points and percentage clear of University Blacks and Old Carey with six games remaining before finals.