R9 2025 | Dev Squad vs Monash Blues
Refreshed after a well-earned bye, the JnrCorns arrived at the iconic Rathmines Road Reserve for a much-anticipated clash against Monash Blues. There was extra energy in the air with familiar connections across the field. We were facing Lachie Lane’s former team, Adam Pacak’s lecturer, and even someone Head Coach Kevin Pious had interviewed for a grad role. Before the first bounce, we congratulated club favourite Ben Tyrrell, who earned a senior call-up as a late inclusion.
Despite kicking against the wind, the boys started brightly. Oscar Payne gave silver service in the ruck, feeding midfielders Matt Haberfield, Asher Claney and Hamish Webb. Returning ex-Bulleen Temp duo Blake Italiano and Michael Van Benten announced their comeback in style, both slotting our first goals. While Monash generated some entries into their forward 50, our half-back line of Cal Hackman and Sam Tralaggan stood tall and sparked counterattacks. The scoreboard at quarter time read 43 to 2 in our favour, a strong statement against the wind.
The second term was a show of dominance. With the wind at our backs, Aaron Shiperlee wasted no time putting on a masterclass, bagging seven goals before halftime. Down back, Max Nash provided plenty of drive while Liam Leeden was rock solid, ensuring Monash never got near goal. The O’Halloran brothers were composed under pressure, while Mo Elfaki added two of his five majors for the day. By the main break, the JnrCorns had surged to a commanding 109 to 3 lead.
In the third quarter, the group showed maturity beyond their years. Coaches Joey Pious and Adam Pacak encouraged the team to switch angles and slow the tempo, using the quarter as a chance to build another layer ahead of finals. Shiperlee continued his tear, Lewis Roughton nailed a stunning left-foot finish, and Atlas Yates found his groove with three goals. By the final change, the lead had blown out to 169 to 4.
Before the last quarter, self-proclaimed “Coach Baz” took the huddle and introduced some changes. A new-look midfield featuring Lachie Sharrock, who had four goals playing from half back, Liam Leeden and Max Nash took over and continued to dominate clearances. Azza brought up his tenth, and makeshift defender Oscar Payne shut down every Monash attempt to exit their defensive 50. The fairy tale moment came late when Liam kicked his first ever goal for the club, a brilliant way to close out a huge win.
It was a day to remember for the group, one that reflected their growth and resilience. After enduring tough seasons, it was a well-earned reward and a moment to celebrate. The challenge now is to stay focused, with a tough run of games ahead against St Mary’s, Wattle Park and long-time rival AJAX. Our thoughts are with Cal Hackman, who has been outstanding this year across half back. We hope to see him back in action later in the season doing what he does best.
Final Score: MHSOBFC Dev Squad 32.28-220 defeated Monash Blues 0.4-4.
Goalkickers: A.Shipperlee 10, M.Elfaki 5, L.Sharrock 4, M.Van-Benten 3, A.Yates 3, M.Habberfield 2, A.Claney, B.Italiano, L.Leeden, L.Roughton, H.Webb.
Best Players: Aaron Shipperlee, Matthew Haberfield, Atlas Yates, Lachlan O’Halloran, Hamish Webb, Asher Claney.