A FIVE-goal first term to St Bernard’s has seen the school claim their second consecutive Herald Sun Shield against a persistent St Patrick’s outfit on Saturday afternoon at the MCG, winning 10.10 (70) to 5.9 (39).

In a rematch of last year’s Shield Grand Final, St Bernard’s lead from the first bounce and did not look back, recording a 41-point victory. It was a five goals to none first quarter that blew St Patrick’s completely out of the water, with St Bernard’s intensity and ability to hit targets under opposing pressure first class.

St Patrick’s had plenty of opportunities to register on the scoresheet, but it was not until the 17-minute mark of the second term that they converted a major, courtesy of Greater Western Victoria (GWV) Rebels forward Josh Chatfield.

Calder Cannons’ Brodie Newman was everywhere for St Bernard’s, taking some very strong grabs and disposing of the ball in an efficient manner, while Oliver Liberatore managed to excite with every touch. Cannons’ Lachlan Sholl continued his good form that earned him a National Combine invitation, amassing plenty of the ball, while Vic Metro captain, Xavier O’Halloran had a slow start but eventually worked his way into the game and displayed his class.

Josh Docking goaled in the first minute of the final term to seal victory before O’Brien, Chatfield and Lamb all slotted consolation goals to give St Pat’s coach Howard Clark a friendlier send-off. After 18 years and 10 consecutive Herald Sun Shield Grand Finals, Saturday was Clark’s final game as head coach.

Newman and Chatfield were named best-on-ground for their respective sides before St Bernard’s coach Simon Atkins and his charges lifted the shield, the fourth time the school has won it.