VAFA: St Bernard’s make statement in win over St Kevin’s

St Bernard’s marked its return to the VAFA’s top tier with a statement win over last year’s grand finalists. Coach Steve Alessio speaks on the impact it could have and the performances of two stars.

Nicholas Di Lizio was the best player on the ground.

St Bernard’s might not produce a bigger statement all season.

The Snowdogs showed why they won’t be making up the numbers in the VAFA Premier Division this season with a commanding 52-point win over last year’s grand finalist St Kevin’s.

It was a performance capped off by a brilliant seven-goal to two final term after just 22 points separated the two sides at the final change.

One factor in the performance stood out to Snowdogs coach Steve Alessio.

“It was a good four-quarter performance, we haven’t had one for a while,” he said.

“This is the type of result which can help build belief in a group. It’s still early in the season but it shows what happens when we stick to our process.

“We’ll take a lot away from this and hopefully continue to build.”

St Bernard's won on the back of a strong last quarter.

Nicholas Di Lizio starred to be the best player on the ground to build on an impressive performance a week earlier against University Blues.

“He just loves the contest,” Alessio said.

“He can play a number of positions but on Saturday played more of an inside midfield role but he was also able to go forward and kick a couple of goals.”

Charlie Vague also impressed to continue his strong start to the season, playing a key role in the middle of the ground.

Zac Overman, Luke Said, Ben Overman and Jeremy O’Sullivan were also named among the best.

“You know what you’re always going to get with Charlie,” Alessio said.

St Bernard’s played with just 23 player points on Saturday with Daniel Mott, the only two pointer.

“It’s a real credit to the club for being in this position,” he said.

“Our senior side is most made up of guys who have come through the junior program or have been at the club for a number of years.”

St Bernard’s will next face University blacks on Saturday.

St Kevin’s will look to bounce back against Old Melburnians.