THE Daylesford Saints have managed a well-fought win against finals-bound Vic Park in the BDSA match on Sunday at Dean.
The result was very impressive, with the team playing some amazing soccer, despite missing Nick Jansen in goals and Dwight Beare, both in recovery.
The team finally converted their chances, and dominated play in the first half.
The team was captained by Jack Nulty who stepped up with encouragement and leadership to play in goals and boost the defence.
Nulty's constant encouragement and chatter was a highlight of the day and showed how important he has become to the Saints leadership group.
The Saints started well and played with determination and flair, with early dominance from Zoran Killbilloski, Matt Sutton and Dylan Nulty.
Brett Marchall was in fine form, along with Wayne Devlin, they had their best games of the seasons, despite Brett's 21st the night before.
The Saints could scored more, with Dylan Nulty and Sam Berrins going close, and both scoring some great goals after surging runs through the Vic Park defence.
Killbilloski was having a giggle in mid-field and played many quick runs through the Vic Park defense for the Saint's strikers, and scoring after weaving and teasing his way to smash home a goal.
Ivan Carter couldn't convert, despite dribbling around three players to the goal line, only to back pass to the opposition keeper.
The defence of Ivan Carter, Dragi Koleski, Wayne Devlin and Steven Jenner was superb, and proved too strong throughout the game, with Daniel Trotter finding some form after a spell overseas, playing in the streets of France.
The team was happy to be 3-0 at half time, but failed to improve in the second half, after slowing with fitness.
The Saints deserved a win and fought hard right to the end, scoring another great goal after some brilliant work from the Saint's midfield.
Carter was performing well in defence, and kicking some long balls up the wing.
The team did let a few easy goals in, with Vic Park scoring two in the second half.
Jack Nulty was brilliant in goals, and Dylan Nulty finding form up front, with pace and drive to win the ball in midfield and score when the opportunity arose.
Sam Berrins continued his fine form also, with another well earned goal.
The Saints did not tire, and all credit must be given to the team, which has been under-manned many games this season. Every player can be proud and thankful the team is dedicated to show they can match anyone.
The win was a great one, and hopefully the Saints will take this form into the finals.
The team has a bye next week, and sits in third place one point behind Sebastopol.