SHIPS’ BEST ‘GOOD ENOUGH’ TO TOPPLE SAINTS IN FINAL

The 2021 Old Scholars season concludes on Saturday with a grand final clash between minor premiers St Virgils and reigning premiers OHA looking to win back-to-back premierships.

Meetings during the roster favoured OHA 2-1 with St Virgils successful in the qualifying final by 20 points.

Both teams play a similar style of run and carry and are evenly matched, with the ruck duels between Saints Cameron Duffy and Tyler Bowden against Liam Meagher and Chris Hevey set to be a highlight.

St Virgils coach Jaye Bowden said his team was ready after the week’s break.

“This has given us the opportunity to freshen up and prepare for what we expect to be another cracking contest between the sides,” Bowden said.

“We have plenty of class through the middle of the ground and up forward, but also a backline that has stood up consistently all year, giving us a well-rounded team.”

Ships had issues entering their forward 50, giving their forwards little chance as Saints defenders marked uncontested, but coach Ian Callinan said his side was ready for the challenge.

“St Virgils have been the team to beat all year, filled with superstars all over the ground, but we firmly believe our best footy is good enough, with the midfield battle to play a huge part in the end result,” he said.

In the reserves, Hutchins hope for back-to-back premierships, but University stand in their way.

Start times are reserves GF at 11.30am and Seniors GF at 2pm.