Origin trophy returns as Shores win three grades

Patricky Cassidy scoring in a great win for the Men’s 6th division team. Photo Michelle Begg

 

Marc Patten

Shores United had victories in all three grades last Saturday with a great win away in 1st grade, 2–1 v Tintenbar.

The improving 6 grade boys were much too good for Alstonville 4–2 and the mighty 7s rolling on, crushing Alstonville 6–1. It was the best weekend for Shores this season.

All eyes were on our 4ths boys last Friday night where the stage was set at Pine Ave with the Mullum-Shores trophy on the line, in the final regular season match between Mullum and Shores.

With bitter memories after their humiliation last year, the determined 4ths boys walked out onto Pine Ave to face the best team in the league.

The match was played from start to finish at a frantic pace, more accustomed to a 2nd division match. A real first half shoot out saw the teams go to the break locked up at 2–2. The Shores club held a goal aggregate lead of three, surely only a miracle could save Mullum.

Both teams came out firing in the second half, as the Mullum boys threw everything they could at us. Valleys showed their class and began to control the match. Young Jasper was just unstoppable and, with the crowd urging them on and Mullum ahead 4–2 with 20 minutes to go, it appeared that a Mullum miracle was indeed, on the cards.

Then came the Shores’ call to hold the line. In a spirited fight-back, with Mullum General Chriso in quarantine, Patto and the Shores crowd rallied the boys to fight on. Well aware of the significance of the match, they dug deep and put it to Mullum.

As the final seconds ticked away, Mullum launched raid after raid. With time almost up Mullum smashed one, which crashed off the bar and out.

They ran out of time. After a tense post-game debate, with Kol and Stevie pledging to go back to school and check their addition, Shores regained the Club of Origin trophy by just a 1-goal aggregate.

Regardless of who won or lost, the night belonged to the memory of our dear friend Russell Comisari. We all have vivid memories of his smiling, unassuming face and blistering pace.

Glad we were all able to provide a fitting night for you with many of your friends from both clubs in attendance.

Rest in peace, Russell.

---