The final score was 17-11-113 to 6-3-39, which wasn’t a bad return considering the boggy, wet conditions at Joe O’Connor Park.

The conditions frustrated both sides and it took the Roos a while to settle into the game plan. A late set of goals in the first quarter got the Roos in front and they then managed to keep the Hawks scoreless in the second to lead 7-5-47 to 2-2-14 at the long break.

After a refresher on the plan from coach Terry Lemon at half time, the Roos switched on for the second half. They tackled strongly and were much more direct into the forward line. Nine players managed to score goals for the Roos making it very difficult for the Hawks defenders to target the danger players. Ben Power kicked four from centre half forward, Vaughn Winnel got three, Sam Campbell, Cameron Attwell and Doug Watchorn scored two each and singles went to Daniel Smith, Shane Lees and Jeremy Bush. Best players were Vaugh Winnel, Toby Serafin, Steve O’Brien, Matt Bosustow and Ben Power.

In his 150th game, Ben Serafin rose to the occasion, as usual, kicking a goal and making the best player list for the match. This has been a common occurrence for Ben over his long and illustrious career with the Yass Roos. Of the milestone, his father Julio, was overheard commenting, “It has been a long time coming.” 

Injury and moves away from Yass for work over the years, have delayed this key event for Ben. Plenty of family and friends were there on Saturday to cheer Ben on and off the field.

Ben started as a foundation player for the Roos back in 2002 and signalled his skills and talent by taking the inaugural Best and Fairest player award and the goal kicking award. He has maintained a high level of ability throughout his footy career winning the club Best and Fairest on three other occasions (2005, 2009 and 2014). He also won the league Best and Fairest player in 2009. He was runner up in the club Best and Fairest in 2004 and 2015. During all this, Ben also played a couple of seasons with other clubs when he was living away from Yass.

Added to his on-field contributions for the Roos, Ben also coached the team in 2009 and 2015. Although not a role he is comfortable with, he put the club’s needs first on both occasions to see the team capable of competing at its best. Ben has held several committee positions over the years and is currently Vice President. Ben continues to be an inspirational player and a strong supporter for the club. It was great to see him join the 150 club along with Dave Willersdorf and Daniel Smith.

This week is another home game for the Roos as they take on the Southern Cats (Cooma). The Cats hold fifth spot and the Roos sit in third so this promises to be another battle. Roos/Cats match ups have always been competitive over the years with neither team able to confidently predict an outcome. The Roos will need their ‘A’ game to ensure a win but the home ground advantage should help.

I urge you to get along and support your local team as they continue to do well in this year’s competition. I’ll see you at the footy.

The Fox Terrier.