What a way to start the season! Playing under sunny skies at Gillon Oval NOBSPC held off a gallant Prahran Assumption in a heart-stopper to record a hard fought one goal win.

It was close all day, but we were ahead at every change. In the last quarter we extended the margin to 18 points three times but PA kept on coming at us. With fatigued players, puzzling umpiring decisions and a 35 minute final term, everyone was doing it tough. That we clung to the lead to the end was a credit to our great effort and the victory was well deserved.

Reigning B&F Adam Oakley began where he left off last season with a tireless performance. Chris Ford’s return from country footy was marked with four goals and looked to complement Matt Keown very well in attack. New recruit Michael Dennis displayed plenty of class. Brenton Hunt played with great heart and footy smarts. Dean Beaumont and Pat Kelly also never stopped all day as they shut their running opponents down. Chris Horsley’s three goals were also telling.

Next week we travel to St Mary’s, which will again be tough, but we have plenty to look forward to based on the effort showed on Saturday.