Montmorency overcame a Michael O’Loughlin-inspired Greensborough to keep its unbeaten season intact.
The Magpies were at their attacking best in the 41-goal shootout, outlasting the Boro 22.15 (147) to 19.8 (122) in front of a huge crowd War Memorial Park.
The ladder-leaders looked in complete control midway through the second quarter when they led by 25 points, before O’Loughlin – the man everyone had come to watch – put on a clinic.
In the space of 15 minutes the former Sydney Swans legend booted three goals and set up another as the Boro booted six consecutive goals.
The first two of O’Loughlin’s goals came after roving packs and kicking truly from close range, while the third was a classy snap from the boundary line after marking in the forward pocket.
Greensborough took a two-point lead into half time and a major upset looked on the cards when O’Loughlin setup Josh Grubb for a goal in the opening minute of the third quarter.
However, Montmorency lifted when most other sides would have crumbled.
The Magpies booted three consecutive goals through Alex Chiocci, Chris Burton and Wayne Pavitt to take a nine-point buffer.
Greensborough challenged again and stole back the lead after Aron Burns and Scott Barnett kicked goals one minute apart, however it would be the last time the home side would be ahead.
Goals to Burton and Jesse Donaldson gave the Magpies an 11-point lead at three-quarter time. A 10th consecutive win was sealed early in the final term when Ben Walton and captain Ryan Jackson kicked the opening two goals of the final term.
The Boro was gallant to the end and attempted a number of mini fightbacks, however Montmorency had the reply to every challenge and finished with a 23-point win.
With three goals and high number of contested possessions Ryan Jackson was best afield in the victory. Importantly, Jackson was at his best when his side looked to be struggling and he willed them back into the contest.
Walton was the best forward on the ground and finished with a game-high five goals. He played a direct hand in Montmorency’s first four goals – kicking the first two and then providing direct goal assists for both Ben Haynes and Jackson.
Despite losing, Greensborough showed plenty of upside and still appears the next best contender to challenge the top four.
The Boro had five different players kick three goals, an exceptional achievement playing against the league’s best team and without spearhead Tim Bongetti who was a last-minute withdrawal.
Jamie Craker worked tirelessly in the ruck all day, while Alex Rintoul – who replaced Bongetti – Tristan Stead and Josh Griffiths all found plenty of football.
Final score: Greensborough 19.8 (122) def by Montmorency 22.15 (147)
