OCEAN Grove remains on track for a top-three finish after a workman like performance against a spirited Modewarre at Ocean Grove Recreation Reserve on Saturday, writes Mark Heenan.
The Grubbers (16.14.110) won comfortably to record a 34-point victory over Modewarre (11.10.76).
Results from the other BFL Round 13 matches at the weekend fell in Ocean Grove’s favour as the Grubbers jumped into third spot on the ladder.
Portarlington caused arguably the biggest upset of the season defeating finals contender Barwon Heads, while a gallant Torquay pushed Drysdale all the way only to lose by one point.
A thumb injury to key on-baller Ben Ricardo and the striking report of electrifying forward Paul Breguet put a dampener on celebrations after the match for Ocean Grove.
Breguet was ordered to leave the field after a clash with a Modewarre opponent in the first half, while Ricardo is likely to be sidelined for the Grubbers’ mouth-watering clash against Drysdale this weekend.
Touchline witnesses said Breguet had been himself been struck prior to the incident.
“Probably a hairline fracture to the thumb, so probably three weeks for Ben,” Ocean Grove Co-coach Greg Mervin said after the match.
“We talk about aggressive run from behind the ball and he (Ricardo) is probably the number one exponent here, it is a big loss.
“But someone has got to step up, it gives someone else a chance.”
The Grubbers went into the match under strength after exciting utility Corey Normington, experienced veteran Wayde Piec and Sam Van Dueren were all late withdrawals with the flu.
Despite late changes to its final line-up, Ocean Grove coach Matt Payne appeared subdued in the rooms after the match but simultaneously relieved with the final result.
“We were just happy to win that game,” Payne said after the match. “We had a few blokes flat today and three blokes pulled out on Thursday night.
“Very relieved I thought the boys toughed it out.
“We knew this was a danger game – we just had to win.”
Ocean Grove midfielder Ben Kirk was amongst side’s best winning a number of contested possessions, while Ryan Aylward, James Johnston and Travis Gavin all played strong games.
Grubber forwards Paul Breguet and Matt Jovanovic both kicked four goals apiece.
Former Ocean Grove playing coach Mathew Sproule kicked four goals for Modewarre against his old side while Warriors’ teammate Joshua Finch booted three majors.
Ocean Grove travels to Drysdale this Saturday. The game starts at 2:10pm.
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