SENIORS:

Old Xaverians fell short of a memorable victory against highly ranked Collegians at the Trott yesterday. The Red 'n' Blacks opened well enough, establishing an early lead, though the fast-moving Purples looked a touch smoother.

This proved the case in the second term, when the Lions dominated. Just four times did the Claret and Stout venture into their forward arc, and each time, the foray fell apart. Only inaccurate kicking from the home team kept the contest alive. As it was, the Xavs faced a 27 point deficit at the half.

The third term saw a reversal of momentum, with the visitors providing the run. Collegians' defence held strong under pressure, but Xavs managed three goals to give themselves a chance. A late goal to the Lions gave them some comfort as they went to the lemons.

In the final stanza, the Red 'n' blacks were relentless. Their courage to commit, to run and chase was evident. Collegians, when going forward, were put under intense pressure. Across the midfield, it was all Red and Black. But just as the Xavs looked like winners, two missed shots from close range and a turnover from a kick-in slapped them down.

Jason Holmes dominated the ruck and the Johnston brothers created havoc for most of the afternoon, while Luke Bisset and Chris Margin ran hard down the edges to set up opportunities further afield. A miserly Lions backline kept the Xavs forwards in check, aided on a number of occasions by the low winter sun which seemed to affected players and umpires alike.

Another close game, and another loss. Five games remain and the X Men, despite two tough roadtrips left on the menu, are capable of winning them all.

Collegians            3.1-19    7.7-49    8.9-57    10.13-73
Old Xaverians    3.4-22    3.4-22    6.6-42    9.10-64

Goal Kickers: C. Johnston 2, S. Ralph, M. Parker, C. Lane, J. Milhuisen, T. Golds, M. Merlo, M. Margin
Best Players: T. Johnston, C. Johnston, C. Margin, L. Bisset, J. Holmes, M. Margin