Tara Murray
Thomastown fell just short of upsetting ladder leaders Eltham on Saturday after a big week for the Northern Football League division 2 club.
The Bears announced on Thursday that coach Mario Bandera had decided to step down from the senior coaching role effective immediately.
In a statement from Bears president Rob Mazniovski, the club thanked Bandera for his time the past two years.
“Mario has cited personal reasons and commitments as the catalyst for this decision, and, knowing he cannot give his all to the role, feels now is the right time to step away,” the statement said.
“While the time is never right in these situations, he wanted to ensure the club had ample opportunity to explore potential coaching candidates for the 2023 season.
“His professionalism and work galvanising the group through the COVID period was a true testament to his character, and something we will always be grateful for.”
Daniel Bramich has been appointed caretaker coach for the rest of the season.
On Saturday, the Bears pushed Eltham all the way in their 13.4 (82)-14.12 (96) loss.
The Panthers led at every change, but were never able to blow the game completely open.
Benjamin Nesci kicked four goals for the Bears, while Michael Tang kicked three.
Tyla Barrow and Luca Gioskos were named the Bears best.
The Bears sit in eighth spot, with three wins for the season.
Sitting in ninth is Epping, which lost to Panton Hill.
Panton Hill got the better start of the two sides leading by three goals for much of the first half.
It was able to slightly increase the lead in the third and fourth quarters, to get the 14.17 (101)-9.14 (68) win.
Omar Mustafa kicked three goals for the Pingers with James Tadd named their best.
In division 1, Bundoora fell short against Heidelberg in a top three clash.
The Tigers led throughout in the 12.11 (83)-8.5 (53) win.
Kyle Green, Jake Hobbs and John Jorgensen kicked two goals each for the Bulls.
Ryan Sturgess in his return from injury was named the Bulls best.
The Bulls remain in third spot after the loss.
Meanwhile, Whittlesea lost to West Preston Lakeside, 15.6 (96)-11.7 (73).
The Roosters led at half time by six points against the inaccurate Eagles, before kicking seven goals to five in the second half to seal the win.
In division 3, the match between Mernda and Reservoir was called off after a serious injury to a Reservoir player.
Mernda was leading 7.7 (49)-0.0 (0) at the time.
Laurimar had a one point loss to Old Eltham Collegians, while South Morang smashed Lalor.
