Game Review

The game was a battle of the backlines with Barry Gill playing a top game and was a stalwart in defence. The Blues' Bryan Quirk who starred on one wing was balanced by Melbourne's best on ground winger Brian Dixon. In a tight last quarter Ron Barassi stalked the backline line picking up numerous kicks and driving the Blues into atttack. John Nicholls dominated the ball ups and throw-ins provided his teammates with first use of the ball. Brian Kekovich provided a strong focal point with his marking on the forward line. He kicked 4 goals and missed a couple of other easy chances. Late in time on in the final term Melbourne's Hassa Mann ran into the forward line, unaware that he was on his own, and his hurried kick went through for a point, the siren soon sounded with Blues winning by 4 points.
"With continuing disregard for it's elderly, infirm and cardiac supporters, the Blues slogged out a nerve-wracking finish and scrambled off with the four points, only by the grace of a hasty shot by Hassa Mann." (The Age)

Team

Milestones

50 Games : John Goold
50 Consecutive Games : Bryan Quirk (reported in The Age, Friday 5th) However, next week's round 16 match also claimed it was his 50th.