MPD PENNO Vs East Coast

MPD -R3 18 Apr 2026 Sat - 13:40 pm - Bruce Purser Reserve
G B Score PHD 19 16 130 ECE 4 7 31					G B QT ST 6 2 38 38 1 2 8 8					G B QT ST 4 8 32 70 1 1 7 15					G B QT ST 4 4 28 98 1 2 8 23					G B QT ST 5 2 32 130 1 2 8 31
Best Players Josh Stern Xavier Russell Oscar Irwin Nick Hey Aidan Russell Mitchell Blow
Goal Scorers Nick Hey - 4 Oscar Irwin - 4 Mitchell Blow - 3 Darcy Carnahan - 3 Josh Stern - 3 Xavier Russell - 1 Henry Williams - 1

Against East Coast, our local rival on their “Back to Baulko” day at their home deck, we put together a four-quarter performance to run out winners 19.16 (130) to 4.7 (31).

The tone was set early, as we raced out of the blocks to establish a five-goal lead at quarter time. That momentum carried into the second term, where sustained pressure and control saw the margin extend to 55 points by the main break, effectively putting the
game beyond doubt.

A key pillar of the performance was the defensive unit, which once again stood tall restricting East Coast to just four goals for the match, led strongly by Stephen Wray and Oliver Williams. The back six not only nullified the Eagles’ forward entries but consistently launched attacking chains, turning defence into offence.

Their ability to drive off half back and connect through handball chains with run and carry was a defining feature of the game, proving dynamic and difficult to contain.

The forward group also played a critical role, holding their structure and creating space, allowing for higher-quality entries inside 50. Combined with strong midfield contest work, we were able to control territory and generate a high volume of scoring opportunities.

Offensively, the scoreboard reflected the team’s cohesion and building depth. Nick Hey and Oscar Irwin led the way with four goals apiece, while skipper Mitchell Blow, alongside Josh Stern and Darcy Carnahan, each contributed three goals in a well- rounded attacking performance.

Josh Stern’s impact across the ground was recognised with both Best on Ground and Players’ Player, highlighting his influence and consistency throughout the day. Oscar Irwin’s strong four-goal performance was also rewarded with the Coaches Award.

Overall, it was an exciting performance that highlights the progress being made, but we remain realistic that it is a long season and we are far from the finished product.

We will continue to focus on our energy, intent, and connection to challenge each opposition side we come up against, starting with our annual Anzac Day fixture against Inner West at Picken Oval this Saturday so please come on down to support the club with 1:10pm first bounce.