Heathcote primed for challenge in north

HEATHCOTE is primed for a huge challenge at North Bendigo in Saturday’s 16th round in Bendigo Bank Heathcote DFNL senior footy.

The Saints were stung by a 25-goal drubbing from the Bulldogs in round seven at Pigeon Park in Heathcote.

The Andrew Saladino and Liam Jacques-coached Saints have bolstered confidence following last Saturday’s win against Elmore.

“Playing North Bendigo is tough at any time. It’s a challenge all our players will embrace and learnt a lot from,” Saladino said of playing the Bulldogs.

A 64-55 victory against Elmore as Heathcote FNC hosted Memorial Day capped a great occasion in which funds were raised for Pancare.

The Saints switched the red stripe to purple in specially designed numbers which had Georgia etched on the back in memory of Georgia Edsell-French.

On field the Saints and Bloods put on a great contest as Heathcote made it a four-nil record in Purple Day round.

Although it was scoreless in the final quarter, Heathcote withstood Elmore’s fightback to mark its second win of the season.

Saladino was incredibly proud of the team’s performance.

“There were a lot of challenges going into the game through injury and unavailability.

“Some players doubled up from reserves or under-18s.

“It was a such a strong team performance,” Saladino said.

Peter Bolton capped his first senior game with a goal as ruckman Aaron Gundry and Seb Barnett marked their first senior wins with the club.

It was another Bolton, Rhys who kicked three goals and was best on ground.

“Rhys has missed some games because of injury, but been superb in every match he has played.

“He is a really important part of our team, not just this season, but for the future.”

The consistent Will Tobin will again play a key role against the Bulldogs as will Justin Bateson who won plenty of the ball and kicked two goals against Elmore.

Another big match in round 16 will be at Huntly’s Strauch Reserve where the Hawks tackle Mount Pleasant.

White Hills will be at home against Colbinabbin, and Elmore hosts Lockington Bamawm United.

Leitchville Gunbower has the bye.