St Bernard's through

by PAUL DAFFEY

Vic Amateurs pacesetter St Bernard's showed more relief than joy after outlasting Old Xaverians to win the A-section second semi-final by six points at Elsternwick Park.

St Bernard's, with Dan Jordan in irresistible form at full-forward, appeared set for a convincing victory before Xavs rattled on seven goals in the final quarter, setting up an intriguing possible rematch in the grand final. Xavs must overcome Old Scotch in the preliminary final next Sunday to continue their push for seven flags in eight years.

St Bernard's yesterday controlled the second and third quarters, with superior athleticism exposing their ageing rivals. Xavs rarely gained a clean possession as the minor premiers applied pressure in the windy conditions.

Jordan kicked 7.4 before Xavs forward Scott Mollard shirtfronted him early in the last quarter. Jordan's brother Ben was the best midfielder on the ground while Lucas Fielding dominated in defence. Xavs half-back Simon Wood typified his team's persistence.

In the other Amateurs match, Albert Park defeated North Brunswick by 57 points in the D4-section first semi-final. Sean Allan kicked five goals for Albert Park, which plays Rupertswood in the preliminary final at Preston next Saturday.

Deniliquin yesterday won its second successive Murray league premiership when it outgunned Mulwala by 45 points at Tocumwal. Deniliquin key forward Sean Drennan kicked six goals while rover Andrew May was best afield.

Mulwala full-forward Jamie Solyom kicked seven goals after a month on the sidelines with a thigh strain.

Ardmona yesterday defeated Stanhope by 19 points in the Kyabram District league first semi-final at Girgarre. Ardmona centre half-forward Damien Yze kicked six goals to bring his tally to 144 while full-forward Perry Meka kicked five to bring his tally to 97.

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