NFL: Rested Bears win see-saw match against St Mary’s

Thomastown came from behind against St Mary’s to keep its unbeaten record alive in Northern Football League division 3 on Saturday.

Coming off the bye, the Bears started slowly and were unable to kick a goal in the first quarter.

But the ladder leaders kicked into action in the second quarter, booting five goals to two to take a three-point lead into half-time.

The Bears again struggled on the scoreboard after the main break, kicking just one goal in the third quarter to allow St Mary’s to regain the lead.

But eight scoring shots by the Bears in the final quarter turned a seven-point deficit into a six-point win, 11.16 (82) to 11.10 (76.)

Jacob Osei-Duro kicked five goals for the Bears, while Steven Cadby was best on ground. This week the Bears face Parkside, which had the bye.

In other division 3 matches, Reservoir defeated South Morang by 28 points, 15.16 (106) to 12.6 (78).

The Mustangs led at every break, and were in front by 54 points at three-quarter-time, before the Lions kicked late goals to make the scoreboard look more respectable.

Mustang Liam Ryan was best on ground, while Jake Potter, with four goals, was best for the Lions.

In division 1, Bundoora defeated Northcote Park by 13 points, 9.12 (66) to 7.11 (53). The Bulls led the low-scoring match at every break and were led by Matthew Ferraro who kicked three goals.

Whittlesea ran out of legs against Eltham, losing by 20 points, 15.15 (105) to 12.13 (85).

The Eagles trailed by one point at the last break, but could only kick three goals to the Panthers’ six in the last quarter.

Todd Behan was the Eagles’ best.

In division 2, Lalor defeated Panton Hill by 32 points, 15.11 (101) to 9.15 (69).

Mernda was too strong for Diamond Creek, winning 14.20 (104) to 6.10 (46), while Epping lost to North Heidelberg 20.10 (130) to 13.13 (91). Former AFL player Shane Harvey booted 10 goals for the winners.