Dalyston 7.10.52
Bunyip 11.12.78

Bunyip has proven itself to be the best team not playing finals after the Bulldogs racked up their eighth win for the season with an 11.12.78 to 7.10.52 victory over Dalyston.

The Doggies began their season on fire, but a lack-lustre patch through the middle rounds would prove costly.

The Doggies won just two matches in a nine-round stretch from rounds five to 13.

Bunyip led by just 10 points at half time against the Magpies, but a 4.4.to 1.2 third quarter would put the issue to bed.

Dylan Gallasch and Dan Helmore kicked three each for the Doggies, who had Nathan Allen, Aaron Paxton and Jeb McLeod play to their usual high standard.

Matt Howell, Brad Monson and Curtis Murfett did likewise for the Magpies.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written by David Nagel.


Kilcunda Bass 10.10.70
Garfield 8.7.55
Kilcunda-Bass have fought off a strong effort from the travelling Stars outfit to claim victory by 16-points and finish their sea- son in style.
Garfield came in on a high, following their maiden win of the season the round prior, and looked eager to launch themselves into the off-season with a streak of two.
They looked lively to start, booting three goals without a miss in the opening stanza to stay well in the hunt, as the Panthers managed four of their own.
However, the hometown Panthers proved more than capable of managing the hunger of the young Stars, coming off a win themselves and carrying plenty of momentum they made the second term theirs.
The hosts slotted another four goals to just two in the second, with dynamic ruck-midfielder duo Dale Gawley and Nathan Foote absolutely dominating once again.
The visitors tried their best to nullify Foote’s brilliant ball-winning ability in the middle of the ground with a tag, although to no avail as he continued to gather plenty of possessions and set up play for Killy-Bass. Gawley was too at his crafty best, showing his unique talents in the ruck but also around the ground as a midfielder, impressing many in attendance.
The Stars, as they had for two weeks prior, put on a stellar defensive effort in the third quarter, forcing the Panthers five shots on goal to miss, holding them goalless for the term, while booting one themselves.
This ultimately kept them in with a sniff at the final change, as the Kilcunda-Bass lead stood at just 17-points.
Both sides left it all out there in their charge to the final siren on season 2022, neither having made finals going home with 4 more points was greatly desired in the final half hour.
In an even fourth quarter, both the Panthers and Stars slotted two goals, but the latter just could not make up the three-quarter time deficit.
Panther spearhead Taylor Gibson slammed home two majors, while Cam McKenzie and Anthony Daraio played themselves into the best players list with a goal each, Foote was again best afield.
For Garfield, Nicholas Lang continued his good form in front of goal with two majors, while Rhys Murphy who bagged a goal himself, Zac Soutar and Jack Barnes were among the best.
Match review via South Gippsland Sentinel Times, written by Aiden Box.

Koo Wee Rup 11.5.71
Tooradin-Dalmore 20.14.134

There’s still water to flow under the bridge before it happens, but minor-premier Tooradin-Dalmore received an early feel for this year’s grand final venue when the Seagulls visited Kooweerup on Saturday.

Denhams Road will be the field of dreams for one lucky team this year, and the Seagulls are as good a chance as any to lift this year’s crown.

The Gulls were pushed by the Demons early, leading by 10 points at quarter time and 22 at the half, before slipping a different gear after the main interval.

The Seagulls booted 11 goals to five after the break to edge clear to a 20.14.134 to 11.5.71 victory.

The Gulls had a tasty even spread, with Dylan Paarlberg, Julian Suarez and Jimmy Trezise booting four each, while Adam Oxley drifted forward to snag three of his own.

Matt Livermore, Brent Macaffer and Lewis Hill were solid contributors for the Gulls, while Mitch Cammarano and Nathan Voss finished their seasons in fine style for the Demons.

Jason Wells finished on 74 goals for the season, after slotting four goals on the weekend, while Luke McMaster and Voss chimed in with a couple each.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written by David Nagel.


Nar Nar Goon 18.9.117
Inverloch-Kongwak 11.10.76

Form in the final round of the home-and-away season can sometimes be difficult to read, particularly with little chance for change in the upper echelons of the ladder.

But it’s hard to ignore the exciting, sharp and precise brand of football played by the Goon, who kicked a minimum of four goals in every quarter against one of the best defensive teams in the competition.

And the Goon did so without their premium midfielder, and one of the competition’s guns, with Trent Armour rested by coach Luke Young to ready the hard-nut for a full-on assault of the Cobras on Sunday.

The Goon outscored the Sea Eagles in all four quarters of football, banking their first victory against one of the big three with an 18.9.117 to 11.10.76 triumph.

Star full-forward Dermott Yawney kicked five goals for the Goon, which left him one short of Cora Lynn spearhead Nathan Gardiner in the race for this year’s league goal-kicking award.

Gardiner timed his run to perfection…producing a ‘Kiwi’ type display in the 1983 Melbourne Cup.

Just like Kiwi, Gardiner never had his nose in front until the shadows of the post, producing a barnstorming finish to edge his way to the lead.

Yawney can console himself with the fact that he has solid support by his side heading into this week’s cut-throat eliminator, with Cooper Pursell kicking four stylish goals and Mitch Homfray and Eamon Trigg chiming in with two apiece.

The Goon had nine goal-kickers in an ominous sign for the Cobras this weekend.

Classy types like Brad Homfray, JJ Peni, Jake Smith and Brendan Hermann were at the top of their game for the Goon, while Luke Bettio is another to head into this week’s final series on a high.

As for the Sea Eagles, well there will certainly be no panic stations as the experienced unit prepares for a Saturday elimination final against sixth-placed Warragul Industrials at the Bass Recreation Reserve.

Concerning is a 61-point turnaround by the Goon, who the Sea Eagles defeated by 20 points in round 11.

Thomas Wyatt was important with three goals for Ben Soumilas’s men, with the talented Jenson Garnham and Toby Mahoney both kicking two each for the vanquished.

Tom Hams, Michael Eales and Corey Casey will be players to watch when the Sea Eagles start warm favourites against the Dusties on the weekend.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written by David Nagel.


Korumburra-Bena 3.6.24
Phillip Island 18.23.131
With Cam Pedersen and Matt Jackson being ‘managed’, the Bulldogs headed in with a number of changes against Korumburra.
A difficult year for the opposition, with just one win, and bottom position all but locked in.
The play matched the conditions, with constant forays into the forward line for the Bulldogs resulting in, well, not much.
Six straight points by the mid-way point had nightmares of games past coming back for the Bulldogs, but finally a goal and a 14-0 lead at quarter time. Zac Vernon, and the Taylor 2 – this time Billy and Ben Taylor – leading the stats.
Quarter two wasn’t much better – Eli Richards was outstanding, with his on-ball collegue Zac Vernon everywhere.
Levi Robinson and Jason Tomada led the defence stout.
Tarquin McMillan matched his more experienced opponent in the ruck, whilst Matt Jones was having his best day for some time on the wing.
Unfortunately, the results were not on the board, as the points continued, and a 36-1 score line at half time.
The third continued the relatively uninspiring footy combined with drizzling rain – not quite pouring, but making sure that song continued to ring true.
Max Blake took charge with three goals, with Brendan Kimber deciding enough was enough, destroying the opposition with bone crunching tackles combined with classy footy.
Harry O’Brien began making his presence felt in the forward line, as the Bulldogs kicked 6 goals 8 to move to an 80-1 lead.
Three-quarter time saw reports the Korumburra president offered suitable enticements for a goal – any goal – from his team.
All of a sudden the game came alive with three goals to Korumburra, and eight (with only 3 points) for the Bulldogs in a quarter unrecognisable from first three.
Match review via South Gippsland Sentinel Times.

Warragul Industrials 9.5.59
Cora Lynn 10.8.68

There was no playing for next week when Warragul Industrials and Cora Lynn settled in a for a last-quarter shootout at Western Park on Saturday.

Just 10 goals had been kicked until threequarter time, with the Cobras leading by two points, before all hell broke loose with six goals being scored in an electrifying 13 minutes of football.

Jaxon Briggs ignited the Cobras with a cracker from long range, after 20-seconds of play, before Nathan Gardiner swung onto his left to open up a 14-point advantage just two minutes into the final term.

Bailey Beck answered with a set shot, but when Gardiner slotted a banana from the pocket, and then waltzed into an open goal after a gift-handball from Matt Ryan, the Cobras had blown the gap out to a match-clinching 20 points.

Todd Beck tried to claw the Dusties back into the contest, but the damage had been done….the Cobras prevailing 10.8.68 to 9.5.59.

Gardiner finished with seven goals for the winners, which included three last-quarter majors, while Ryan chipped his way to two and Briggs fired the other.

Billy Thomas, Tim Payne and Chris Johnson are no strangers to finals pressure, and tuned up for this week’s monster clash against the Goon with stellar performances.

Mason McGarrity kicked three for the Dusties – becoming the only player to kicks goals in all 18 rounds this season – while the Beck’s…Bailey and Todd…contributed two each.

Dusties’ Will Gibson and Shane Brewster will take good form into this week’s elimination final against Inverloch.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written by David Nagel.



Trafalgar 6.6.42
Neerim South 10.10.70

Neerim South maintained its unbeaten record to conclude round 19 of the Ellinbank District football season, but it wasn’t without a challenge from Trafalgar who have re-emerged as a potential contender.

The Bloods pushed the Cats, who went into the final change leading by just three points before standing up when it counted most to kick away in the final term and ultimately win 10-10 (70) to 6-6 (42).

Emerging umpire Kohen Lott-Stephens began proceedings with a perfectly executed bounce down, setting the tone for the highly competitive contest.

The Bloods went the length of the field for a goal to Tyson Leys in the first sign the home side meant business following some indifferent form in recent weeks.

The Cats would provide the immediate response, as under 18 one hundred goal sharp shooter Matthew Roberts marked with the flight in the pocket.

His shot made goal umpire Steven Richards work but was the start of a showing of three goals to prove he will belong at the level.

A long goal from Lachlan Bambridge saw the Cats head into the first change with a narrow seven-point lead.

The Bloods would continue to press, scoring over the back of a throw in to draw level early in the second term.

Once again the Cats would hit back, heading into the long break leading by just five points despite a Trafalgar torpedo on the siren following a free kick picked by umpire Ray Fulton from the melee.

The Bloods scored from the pack to level the scores again and the home crowd soon found voice in the third term, with a long goal putting them ahead.

A 50-metre penalty saw the home side add another as the prospect of the Cats dropping the points for the first time this season began to loom large.

Good body work from Luke Kinder saw him rewarded with a goal from close range before a long shot from Bambridge regained a narrow three-point lead for the Cats heading into the final change.

As rain began to ease the Cats stood up when it counted in the final term.

A flying mark from Isaac Fuller on the wing sent the Cats forward for the first of the final term was soon followed by a running shot from Roberts.

A long shot from the flank put a further dent in Trafalgar’s sails.

A fast break from defence through Tom Gill, Tyssen Morrow and Lachlan Guy found Bambridge on the lead to convert from long range for the exclamation point on another strong performance from the Cats.

Match review via Warragul Drouin Gazette, written by Davyd Reid.


Catani 4.2.26
Buln Buln 28.18.186

Buln Buln finished its home and away season with a strong performance, putting away Catani 28-18 (186) to 4-2 (26).

A return of 3-6 in the first term limited the damage, only for a seven goal second term seeing the Lyrebirds head into the long break with a handy 56-point advantage.

Ten goals to nil in the third term put the points in their keeping and while the Blues put through two final quarter goals, the Lyrebirds added eight of their own to run away with it.

Sam Langford made a pleasing return from a long injury lay off ahead of finals, booting three goals and finishing among the best.

Matt Stevens booted seven goals to spearhead the attack with Jake Pierrehumbert also among the best on his return from injury.

Reece Campbell, Sam Batson and Cam McPhan were also prominent.

The Blues were best served by Mitchell Smith, James Williams, Brett Williams, Coby Podd, Dylan Williams and Noah Young.

Match review via Warragul Drouin Gazette, written by Davyd Reid.


Poowong 7.7.49
Lang Lang 4.5.29

POOWONG welcomed Lang Lang on Saturday with both sides needing a win, but in light of the tragic accident on Thursday night, when Poowong lost a great young player in Noah Peacock in a road accident, this was not the main focus.
Poowong Football Netball Club showed on Saturday the greatness of the club in the ability of the players, committee, club members and supporters to pay a fitting tribute to Noah Peacock.
To see the crowd that attended to support the club, the Peacock family and the players, this would only happen in a local country community and the club thanks the community for their support.
To see members of other local clubs showing their support as well as SEN broadcasting the game, was good for local football, and hopefully something good will be generated from this day.
Before the senior game both clubs’ seniors and reserves, umpires and supporters paid tribute to Noah on the ground finishing, with eight seconds of silence as Noah wore No 8. Zac Gray wore Noah’s No 8 jumper as a personal tribute with every Poowong player having Noah’s number on their hands.
Some great emotional speeches were made prior to the game as a tribute, Poowong players determined to honour their former teammate with a victory.
Poowong kicked to the Nyora end favoured by the breeze, and they added 3.1 with goals to Mitch Whiting and two to Paddy Harmes with Lang Lang a late goal.
Both sides were working hard but Poowong’s tackling the difference, you could see the emotional efforts from the Poowong players having an effect in the first quarter.
The second quarter was played between defences with some strong tackling, the only score for the quarter being a goal coming from a kick in the square by Jayden Sullivan. Poowong were asked to continue with their efforts to win the game in honour of Noah with determination and discipline, the question was could they keep this up with the emotion around the ground, they regrouped and showed the determination requested of them.
Lang Lang came out determined and opened with a goal and a point. The ball was moving up and down the ground and it was Mitch Whiting from the pocket to kick his second. Lang Lang had their chances, but a couple of bad misses was not helping their cause.
Poowong moved the ball the full length of the ground resulting in Jayden Sullivan running in to an open goal. Poowong were asked to keep up their effort with everyone contributing, Connor Cunningham was working hard in the ruck as was Alex Doria, Zac Gray, Will Lumby and Andrew Logan down back.
Poowong opened the final quarter with a point then Paddy Harmes kicked his third, they followed up with a couple of points. Lang Lang was determined and lifted with a couple of goals and a point, but Poowong’s determination won through at the final siren, guaranteeing a finals berth with Lang Lang’s chances gone.
Poowong’s rooms were packed after the game as Chris Doria, Poowong’s coach, made a great speech paying tribute to Noah and his family and the efforts of every player to play a part in the victory and to dedicate their efforts ahead in the finals to Noah.
Match review via South Gippsland Sentinel Times, written by Geoff Wyatt.


Longwarry 6.6.42
Yarragon 6.7.43

Little separated mid-table sides Longwarry and Yarragon heading into their round 19 clash.

And the contest didn’t disappoint as the Panthers charged home to steal it by the barest of margins, winning 6-7 (43) to 6-6 (42).

It was a meritorious result for the Panthers, who are building following some lean seasons and came from behind to account for a Crows side who have put in some impressive efforts at home.

The Crows kicked the only goal of the first term and held the edge throughout, but still the Panthers kept in touch.

A half time margin of 11 points pushed out to just 12 at the final change in what transpired as an even contest.

Tom Dovaston finished with three goals to lead the Panthers’ charge, the visitor adding 2-2 to one behind in the final term to pinch the result.

Damien Allison, Devin Pollock, Josh Vosper, Sam van der Zalm, Tyler Payroli and captain Mitch Jolly led the visitors to victory.

The Crows blooded another youngster in Angus Adamiak and in pleasing signs for the Crows, he was their best player. Jedd Serong, Ben Cuckson, Russell Lehman, Bailey Stephens and Jonah Serong were also among the best.

Match review via Warragul Drouin Gazette, written by Davyd Reid.


Ellinbank 16.19.115
Nilma Darnum 2.7.19

Ellinbank stitched up its finals berth with a big win over Nilma-Darnum, 16-19 (115) to 2-7 (19).

A pre-game tribute for Ellinbank club stalwart the late Adrian ‘Adie’ Pratt commenced proceedings.

The Eagles had to overcome an early challenge from the Bombers, heading to the first change leading 3-3 to 2-2.

Four goals in the second term opened a handy buffer at the long break and they went on with it, as the Bombers failed to add a major beyond the first term.

The Eagles used the opportunity to blood another young player in Billy Auldist and he impressed, finishing among their better players.

Shaun Phelan booted three goals while Bryce Joyce, Anthony Battista and coach Ben Wragg were also among the better players.

The Bombers were best served by Nathan Campbell, Malcolm Hunter, Nick Carrigy, Sebastian Crowle, Oxley Huson and Jeremy Jarred.

Match review via Warragul Drouin Gazette, written by Davyd Reid.



Bairnsdale 5.4.34
Wonthaggi 15.18.108
Heavy rain at the Bairnsdale City Oval barely stopped all day with the result that it was a hard slog from start to finish for Wonthaggi Power and the Bairnsdale Redlegs.
But despite Wonthaggi coming home, from the longest road trip in Gippsland, with a 74-point win, to squeak ahead of Sale on
percentage, back up into second place on the ladder, it was by no means easy on the day.
The match started in the driest conditions of the day, but the rain soon set in, and the match was often a series of scrimmages until the ball could be scrambled free with hard bullocking work, a hopeful handpass or a soccer off the ground.
The two big men, Toma Huther of Wonthaggi and Josh Wykes of Bairnsdale, were immediately engaged in a full-court battle, in the ruck and around the ground, with Wykes often doing the in-and-under work of a ruck-rover, while Huther made good position for the outlet.
The return of Jack Blair, straight into the engine room, after five weeks out, had immediate impact, often working the contested ball clear, linking up with Darcy Brosnan in particular, putting his head over the ball to earn free kicks and encouraging his team mates throughout.
It was a complete game from him and a chance to run back into form ahead of the finals. It also gave his brother, coach Jarryd, the chance to have a few lengthy spells on the pine, for a rare look at the play.
Bairnsdale provided a good contest at the stoppages from the likes of Nathan Dennison, Josh Wykes, Liam Give and Oscar Pike, and in defence where Randall Stewart, Simon Deery and Kieran Vickery were busy but with Wonthaggi able to swing plenty of quality through the on-ball group, and having a host of talent forward and back, they were always going to kick a bigger score.
Even in the wet, their skills were better, they had more at the contest and looked quicker over the ground.
Wonthaggi maintained control throughout the match, but it would be wrong to suggest they didn’t get a good contest from the
home side, who ultimately finished on, matching Wonthaggi’s three goals in the last quarter.
Both teams were spent when they headed for the rooms but a smart use of three or more ruckmen through the match by Wonthaggi and 10 or more players rotating on the ball would have helped spread the load on a hard slogging day.
Match review via South Gippsland Sentinel Times.

Drouin 11.10.76
Morwell 20.8.128

Morwell ensured it will be in with a fighting chance of playing finals right to the last round after defeating Drouin.

The Tigers made the journey west, and finish well to win 20.8 (128) to 11.10 (76).

Very little separated the sides in the first half, but a five goal to three second term provided Morwell with enough breathing space.

The visitors took a 16-point lead into the main break, and virtually the same into the last, as they held a 20-point advantage.

Having competed well for three quarters, Drouin eventually ran out of legs, and failed to kick a goal in the final term, while the Tigers piled on five.

Two men with the same surname but different spelling kicked five goals each for the winners. Cody Macdonald was best on ground for his effort, and Brandon McDonald wasn’t far behind.

Others to play well were Burkeley Macfarlane, Boyd Bailey, Tyler Brown and James Jacobsen.

Aden Quirk, Jordan Kingi, Jarrod Marshall, Seth Calway, Joseph Collins and Aaron Marsh put in honest efforts for Drouin.

Match review via Latrobe Valley Express/Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.


Maffra 7.10.52
Warragul 4.5.29

The Eagles maintained their place in the top five following a 7.10 (52) to 4.5 (29) victory.

Maffra made the early running at home, kicking two goals to one behind in the opening term.

The Gulls hit back, winning the second quarter to see the scoreboard all but level at the main break.

Maffra then did enough to secure the points, kicking five goals to two in the second half.

The Carr boys, Ed and Alex, were best for the winners. Mitch Bennett, James Huts, Dylan Alexander and Jack Challands were also solid.

For Warragul, ruckman Sam Whibley, James Davidson, Nick Mulqueen, Will Cole, Brad Hefford and Wil Hatfield played well.

Match review via Latrobe Valley Express/Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.


Moe 8.7.55
Leongatha 15.12.102
Leongatha has recovered from a sluggish start to win and remain undefeated in 2022, this time getting over the top of Moe by 47-points in wet conditions on the road.
The hometown Lions came to play, knowing they had to bring the intensity in order to pull off the unlikely upset.
The hosts cracked in hard at the footy, setting the tone hunting the league-leading Parrots, winning the ball first and denying the Parrots any space to get their running game going.
This gave Moe the ascendancy throughout the opening quarter in a physical contest at Ted Summerton Reserve, they kicked straight too in greasy conditions to take a 9-point lead into the first break.
The visitor’s slowly adjusted throughout the next two quarters, although inaccuracy in front of goal cost them a chance to pull away from the tough and hard Lions outfit.
On the back of the hardness and intensity of Kim Drew, the Parrots were able to win more of the ball as both sides moved the ball quite well, despite the slippery conditions.
Matt Willcocks was stout in defence for ‘Gatha giving them every chance to wrestle back the momentum, although it was still anybody’s game at the half, with Leongatha stealing the lead which stood at five.
The Parrots slammed on 10 goals to three in the second half. Wingman Luther Juric was able to run and break the lines on several occasions for ‘Gatha and found himself on the scoreboard with a goal, so too did Jack Hume who used the ball exceptionally well.
The Parrots forwards were able to find plenty of space late, thanks in part to the superb forward pressure from Ned Hanily. A six goal to one final term led the Parrots out to a 47-point win, their 17th in a row in season 2022, showing maturity to overcome the early scare from the gallant Moe outfit.
Cameron Olden was sensational all game long for the victors, showing his game can easily translate to the wet conditions, finishing with a bag of five goals and a best on ground nod.
Willcocks, Juric and Drew also found themselves in the best players list in the win.
Match review via South Gippsland Sentinel Times.

Sale 6.10.46
Traralgon 5.9.39

Choppy conditions at Sale Oval made life difficult for all concerned, but in the end, the Magpies prevailed.

Goals were gold throughout the day, and the three Sale kicked during the second term allowed them to keep their noses in front to the final siren.

Traralgon had five scoring shots to two in the first quarter of the main game, but Sale’s two straight goals allowed them to take a slender lead at the break.

The Magpies made their move in the second, kicking 3.4 (22), and their 15 point lead at half-time was probably equivalent to 25 in ordinary conditions.

Sale only added one more goal after the main break, but it proved to be enough to see not only victory, but the double-chance all wrapped up.

Having identified a top-three finish as the immediate goal after Round 15, Sale coach Jack Johnstone has this checkpoint ticked off the list.

Next item will surely be taking a win into the qualifying final against Wonthaggi.

Ryan Pendlebury was best-on-ground for the Magpies, followed by Mitch Thacker, Pat Tainsh, Kane Martin, Brad Dessent and Harry Ronchi.

Haydn Hector was busy for Traralgon, while Tye Hourigan, David Brinker-Ritchie, Mark Collison, Jake Best and Conor Little were other prominent performers.

Match review via Latrobe Valley Express/Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.



Boolarra 20.7.127
Toora 2.3.15

For a fair chunk of the season, it appeared that Boolarra had improved so significantly that a top two spot might be locked in. A throw at the premiership stumps was likely.

However, recent weeks had thrown a question mark up above the head of the Demons. As a result, a win and some form was desperately needed.

That was exactly what Boolarra delivered with a 20-goal win, 20.7-127 to Toora’s 2.3-15.

“Good to be on the winners’ list again,” Boolarra coach Tony Giardina. “Boys started the game well in pretty harsh conditions, and didn’t take the foot off which was pleasing.”

Boolarra get to look and plan, whilst Toora can grab a head start on 2023 after an honest season.

“A wet day to start the game, both teams played to the conditions, but Boolarra had very clean hands in their forward line,” Toora coach Matthew Ponton said. “Our boys fought hard all day in the conditions and really gave it a fair crack, which we couldn’t ask for much more.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.


Fish Creek 10.11.71
Mirboo North 7.6.48
After it trailed by 13 points at half-time, Fish Creek overpowered Mirboo North to win a paradoxical game of skill, curious deflections and hard knocks by 23 points, in the mighty Tigers’ first official trip to Fish Creek’s Terrill Park on Saturday.
Following yo-yo seasons of ups and downs, both clubs miss participating in the first series of finals in the revamped Mid Gippsland 13-club competition.
From 2003 to 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Mirboo North played in 17 consecutive MGFNL finals campaigns that brought the grand old club five senior premierships.
Similarly, Fish Creek won’t have the opportunity to add to the 20 senior former Alberton League flags it has won since 1955.
Successive Mirboo North goals to teenagers, Rory Peter and Max Woodall saw the Tigers score the opening majors of the match as unproductive build-ups let Fish Creek down inside its forward 50.
Joe Brooks’ buffeting and precision palming in the ruck offered a self-serve buffet of options for the Tigers to clear the ball from the packs and send it forward through Hudson Kerr’s handiwork, Liam Nash’s innovation and skipper Damien Turner’s pace and persistence to find a teammate.
Other Mirboo North youngsters holding their own and providing drive towards the big white sticks were Beau Peters, Taj Wilkins and Harry Mahoney.
Although a snap from Tom Kercheval just before half-time produced Fish Creek’s second goal, Mirboo North still went to the change rooms with a handy 13-point advantage at the long break.
Despite Mirboo North scoring the first goal of the third quarter, momentum was starting to swing the Kangaroos’ way as Lachlan Marr, Tom Cameron, Travis Manne and Matthew McGannon’s influence on proceedings increased.
Dauntless in their attacks on the Sherrin and any Tiger in possession of it, Fish Creek’s appetite for success ensured the Tigers’ bones were rattled by solid bumps and ferocious tackles.
An observant local suggested the Kangaroos had turned their bodies into weapons of war.
When Kercheval kicked the first of Fish Creek’s three goals in a row, the Tigers looked shaky and ragged, as the Kangaroos’ clean marking and hard ball gets became more frequent.
Kercheval scored again from a free kick late in the term and Fish Creek went to the last change cock-a-hoop and seven points in front.
Rearguard last quarter Mirboo North goals by Nash and Turner, after Manne hauled in a pack chest mark near Fish Creek’s goal square, kept the Tigers in the hunt.
Fish Creek’s unrelenting rotational tag-teaming of tagging Nash meant his mobility was restricted, but his nobility remained intact.
In the end, three unanswered majors in quick succession from the Kangaroos close to time-on, sealed the visitors’ fate.
When one of those came soon after an errant Fish Creek sideways pass flew over the boundary line on the full and the resultant free kick went to the home side, the Tigers knew it wasn’t their day.
In these situations, the sublime and the ridiculous are so closely related, it becomes difficult to separate them.
The Tigers fought tooth and nail all afternoon; they so badly wanted to win for retiring coach Josh Taylor’s last match in charge.
But, the wonderful game of footy and all of its complexities, can’t guarantee every dream comes true.
Match review via multiple publications, written by Rover.

Foster 10.12.72
Hill End 7.5.47

Two of the genuine premiership contenders of the competition clashed in what was always going to be an intriguing contest.

Entering Saturday, there was the very real possibility these could also meet in the first week of finals, depending on how results unfolded around them.

That twist meant that coaches – as much as they wanted to win – also needed to learn in anticipation of a match meaning so much more in just seven days.

In the end, Foster won 10.12-72 to Hill End 7.5-47.

“Happy with our last hit out against Hill End – we have a lot of time for Mike (Santo) and their group,” Foster coach Sam Davies said. “They’re a top side who will have a big say in how the season ends up.”

“Our first three quarters defensively, were some of our best this year and gives us a great amount of confidence going into finals,” Davis reflected.

“Finals is a test, and we will have to play four quarters of disciplined footy to keep winning.”

Winning form is the best form going into finals. So, for Hill End, the result wasn’t exactly what they needed.

“We were really good for one quarter, competitive for two and beaten badly in one which was the difference in the game,” Hill End coach Mike Santo said. “We have a lot of respect for Sam and the boys from Foster, and they deserved the four points on the weekend.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.


Meeniyan Dumbalk United 9.6.60
Stony Creek 4.9.33

With finals hopes gone, the challenge for the Lions was to retain that same focus, endeavour and tenacity that had seen them climb many positions up the ladder.

MDU stood in the way of that challenge, wanting and hoping to claim just one more victory in front of a deserving home crowd.

The Demons can out on top, 9.6-60 to defeat Stony Creek 4.9-33.

MDU coach Peter Harris said it was a great way to finish the season against neighbours Stony Creek.

“Boys were up for the challenge and they delivered in front of a big crowd celebrating past premierships,” Harris said.

The game was played fiercely but fairly, and was a great example of the spirit of the competition.

“Not the way we wanted to end the season against MDU, but at the end of the day we were outplayed by a better team,” Stony Creek coach Jay Accardi said.

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.


Morwell East 1.6.12
Yinnar 3.17.35

Contrasting seasons for these two teams led them to a day where there were no second chances, no excuses and nowhere to hide.

Morwell East is a side full of talent but this has proven difficult to harness for coach Devon Soutar. They were confronted by an obviously motivated Yinnar team, excited by the unexpected opportunity to steal a finals spot. This was enough for the Magpies away from home and against the odds to win the hard-fought game in testing conditions, 3.17-35 to 1.6-12.

“Great to get the win and get into the finals,” Yinnar coach Daniel Taylor said. “It was tough conditions, but I felt like we outworked and outplayed them for the majority of the day. Inaccurate kicking kept them in it.”

“Really proud of how the boys went about it, we cracked in all day and really deserved the win,” Taylor added. “I thought the East were up for the fight, but we controlled the territory battle and, in tough conditions, they couldn’t get their transition game going.”

The Magpies have been looking ominous for some time now, even when falling on the wrong side of results on a number of occasions. Without question, this victory was their most important.

For their opponents, the result was the most devastating.

“It was a season that began with potential and promise, but ended in utter disappointment,” Morwell East coach Devon Soutar said. “Inconsistent early in the year and missed opportunities late, with no one to blame but ourselves.”

“It’ll certainly sting watching the others fight it out while we lick our wounds.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.


Thorpdale 2.9.21
Tarwin 13.13.91

Tarwin coach Troy Hemming had been presented with what might be called a soft runway through to the MGFNL finals.

Confronted with the two bottom of the table sides in the last fortnight, the Sharks would look ahead to a bye before a first final where the winner will gain direct passage to the grand final.

As important as winning was, it was always going to be about how they won, and how his major playmakers survived ahead of far greater challenges. Tarwin finished victors, 13.13-91 to Thorpdale 2.9-21.

“We played played Thorpdale and I think we got what we wanted as a team out of it,” Tarwin coach Troy Hemming said. “Our boys have been great all year and got top spot, so I’m very proud of them and everyone involved.”

It is the first time in club history that Tarwin has finished top of the ladder.

The win didn’t come without some disappointment observed from the sidelines, with Tarwin supporters voicing their disapproval of a number of incidents.

Blues coach Ray Pickering, well respected in his own right, has tirelessly committed to having his side play as best they can.

“Tough greasy conditions welcomed us,” Pickering said. “We had a great start, with a very competitive first quarter. But a poor 15 minutes to start the second, saw the game slip away.”

“Tarwin showed just a bit too much polish in the conditions,” he added.

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.


All match reviews via Latrobe Valley Express/Gippsland Times, written by Scott Berechree

Cowwarr 8.7.55
Sale City 14.10.94
Cowwarr showed all of the usual Saints spirit in their last game of the year, but ultimately found Sale City too good.
The ‘Warr managed their third-highest score for the year, but with Dr Sam Davidson on fire for the Bulldogs, City were simply too good in the end, winning 14.10 (94) to 8.7 (55).
The tri-colours grabbed the win by 39-points and must have been wondering `what-if?’ as their shock loss to Glengarry weeks back is all that stood between them and finals action.

Churchill 14.19.103
Woodside 12.13.85
Having taken the points in their first meeting of the season over at Woodside, the home team Cougars, who knew going into the game they’d finish second or third and face TTU in week one of the finals no matter what, went in slight favourites. Woodside kept in touch with Churchill until the main break, but a four goal to one third term saw Churchill take a 24-point lead into the final change.
To their credit, Woodside kept firing, and slotted six last term goals, but with Churchill kicking four themselves, the best the Wildcats could do was peg the final margin back to a neat three goals in a final scoreboard that read 14.19 (103) to 12.13 (85). Ben Kearns, who booted four goals to see him win the league goal kicking award, was best on for Churchill, with big Dillon Leys again in good form. Chris Wangman slotted four majors to go with the five he kicked last week in a good tune-up for the post-season.
For Woodside, it was Ryan Foat who led the way, with the skipper notching up yet another best-on-ground performance courtesy of his ruck work, marking around the ground and five majors. Ina timely return to form, with a big final
against his old club Yarram just around the corner, Zac Richards booted four to join Foat, Daniel Missen and Will Broadbent on the best players list for the Wildcats.

Traralgon Tyers United 5.5.35
Yallourn Yallourn North 16.10.106
Yallourn Yallourn North fired one last warning shot across the bows of the rest of the competition by taking second-placed Traralgon Tyers United to the cleaners on Saturday.
The league leading Jets won all bar the second term and ran out near enough to 12 goal winners, 16.10 (106) to 5.5 (35).
As has been the case all year, the Jets’ defence suffocated their opponents, restricting the usually free-scoring Bomber outfit to only five majors for the day.
While the weather arguably may have played a part in the low TTU score, if this was the case it only serves to highlight the offensive potency of YYN, who managed to crack the ton themselves.
It was the 10th time this year the Jets have done so, and worryingly for the rest of the competition, their last two 100-plus scores have come against sides that were second on the ladder at the time.
Keenan Hughes and Dean MacDonald, with five and four goals respectively, were two of the four Jet multiple goal-kickers on the day. Jai Massesse was best on for the winners, enhancing his chances for league best-and-fairest honours along the way. He was joined by Matt Twaddle and Elliot De Carli as the best afield for Jets.
For TTU, it was all singles in terms of goal-kickers, with Stu Goddard named their best.

Gormandale 2.2.14
Heyfield 12.24.96
Heyfield finished off their year with a big win over wooden spooner Gormandale. The Kangaroos won by 82 points, 12.24 (96) to 2.2 (14), but having kicked twice as many points as goals the margin could, and should, have been much greater. Heyfield shared the goal kicking around with only Kyle Graham and Tyson Birss managing multiples. For Gormandale, it was Jarryd Garlick and Ben Heath who slotted their two goals.

Glengarry 3.8.26
Rosedale 8.9.57
Rosedale rounded out their year with a comfortable five goal win over Glengarry, 8.9 (57) to 3.8 (26).
With the game in the balance at the last change, it was the bigger bodied, more mature Rosedale who handled the conditions best, booting three goals to nil to ensure the `Dales season finished on a high.
As is so often the case, big man Frazar Brouns led the way with a best-on-ground performance capped off with a pair of goals for the winners.
For Glengarry, it was the evergreen Michael Ryan named as best. With only three goals to their name, Ben Truin with two and Zac Bezzina with a single, it was a disappointing end to the season for the Magpies.


Boisdale-Briagolong 10.11.71
Lucknow 7.10.52
Boisdale-Briagolong ended its season on a massive high. The Bombers defeated finals-bound Lucknow by 19 points, winning 10.11 (71) to 7.10 (52). Boisdale-Briagolong gave its home supporters something to cheer as they walked off the ground for the last time in 2022.
An even first quarter was followed by a strong second from the Bombers, as they kicked four goals to take an 11-point lead into the main break.
Sensing the chance of a win, the home side did not let up, and added a further three goals to one in the third to extend the margin to 21 with one quarter to play.
Boisdale-Briagolong saw the game out right to the end, and made sure of the result with enough defensive pressure in the last. Kel Porter was best-on-ground in the victory, followed by Sam Bedggood, Daniel Johnson, Jim Reeves, Paddy Mack and Tom Brew.
Joel McNamara, Jesse Glassborow, Ry Mutimer, Tom Southen, Jack Saulle and Dion Grace played well for Lucknow.
Match review via Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.

Lakes Entrance 2.6.18
Stratford 5.12.42
Stratford is now just one win away from a grand final. The Swans secured the double-chance in the last round of the East Gippsland home-and-away season with victory over Lakes Entrance. Travelling to the oval by the sea, Stratford won a low-scoring match played in challenging conditions 5.12 (42) to 2.6 (18).
While the game wasn’t pretty, it was enough to mean the Swans ended the regular season with 12 wins to their credit. Stratford led at every change, and manufactured enough goals in the finish to win by 24 points.
Neither side managed a major in the second term. Stratford only kicked 1.5 (11) in the third quarter, but kept the Seagulls scoreless themselves.
The Swans had a 20-point lead at the last change, which was probably worth twice as much in the context of the conditions. Jack Bacon was best-on-ground for the winners, and received good support from Ben Channing, Lincoln Toner, Brad White, Regan Tait and Gavin Bickery.
Best for Lakes Entrance was Sam Nickless, Angus McKenzie, Tom Duncan, Jordan Cullen, Ben Richardson and Jarred McDonnell.
Match review via Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.

Paynesville 3.1.19
Lindenow 7.8.50
Lindenow proved too good for a depleted Paynesville in Lachlan Dumaresq’s 200th senior game. The Cats put the match to bed early, winning comfortably by 31 points.
Luke Dyer kicked three goals for the Cats, with Todd Alexander, Andrew Sandy, Matt Irish, Bohan Blandford, Tray Lawson and Tom Van Den Einden all in great form. On ballers Benjamin Mckinnon and Nick Pincott, Jordan Farquhar, Mitch Holdsworth, backmen Daniel Jones and Jordan Dadswell all battled hard for the Gulls all day.
Match review via the Bairnsdale Advertiser.

Wy Yung 14.7.91
Orbost Snowy Rovers 1.1.7
Orbost Snowy Rovers couldn’t maintain their recent form, succumbing to ladder leader Wy Yung by 84 points. Impressive winners of three of their last four matches, the Blues went into the match confident of causing an upset but it wasn’t to be, the Tigers looking in great shape heading into a finals campaign where they are clearly the side to beat.
The miserly Wy Yung defence restricting the Blues to just one goal for the day. Brad Daniel, Bayden Ashwood, Luke Elia, Norm Betts and speedy youngster Thomas Stephenson all kicked two goals for the Tigers. Daniel, Elia, Dylan Somerville, Ash-wood, Jobe Somerville, Aaron Harmers were all named in the best, with plenty of other honourable mentions in a solid team performance.
Best players for the Blues were Clancy Bennett, Gus Rogers, Braeden Ross and defenders Jessie Pescod, Jarrah Nettleton and Chris Downward. Despite going goalless on the weekend, OSR captain Hamish Nettleton took out the league goal kicking award with 49.
Match review via the Bairnsdale Advertiser.


Lindenow South 11.4.70
Swifts Creek 9.6.60
Lindenow South are through to Omeo and District football grand final after scoring a hard fought 10 point victory over Swifts Creek at Buchan on Saturday.
The match was played in wet and slippery conditions but it certainly didn’t detract from the quality of the match and the spectacle. Players from both sides giving their all and then some.
The first quarter developed into a shoot out, with the Swampies kicking five goals to Swifts Creek’s four. Key Lindenow South playmakers Sam Howden and coach Nathan Pollard were already looking dangerous. Cameron Johnson kicked the first goal for Swifts Creek at the sixth minute mark and when Pollard goaled from 45 metres at the 11 minute mark to put the Swampies in front, they would hold the lead to half way through the final quarter.
The game became an arm wrestle in the second quarter, Lindenow South establishing a 17 point led midway through the quarter after goals to Howden and speedy youngster Griffin Sherritt.
Swifts Creek wouldn’t lie down, with late goals to Johnston, his second and captain Alister Commins after a downfield, narrowing the margin to five points at half time.
Goals were hard to come by in third quarter, the only major kicked by Lindenow South spearhead Max Solomon at the one minute mark. Swifts Creek dominated the second half of the quarter, continually going inside 50, only for for the ball to repelled by the steadfast Lindenow South defence.
Dylan Hack was impossible to get past across half back for the Demons. Nathan Hayes, Beau Hack, Arthur Wright and Che Davies instrumental in the fight back with their run and carry. The Swampies 12 points leaders at three quarter time. The game was anyone’s at three quarter time, with Swifts Creek coach David Westland encouraging his troops to run and take the game on.
Lindenow South pulled the first surprise of the last quarter with coach Pollard, playing as a ruckman. With Brad Pedder out injured the Swampies had tried Howden, Alf Solomon, Neil Rawlings and Russell White in the role with varied degrees of success. The last quarter was a dour struggle, which you would expect with the stakes so high. Swifts Creek nabbed the first goal when Davies, converted the great defensive work of Robert Crellin, who had been quiet as a forward in first three quarters.
Sam Howden made the margin back to 12 points shortly after when he kicked his third for afternoon from 45 metres out directly in front. Swifts Creek controlled the next 10 minutes of play, with Hayes goaling after a 50 metre penalty and when Richie Harrison converted after a holding the ball that was awarded 15 metres from goal the Demons were in front with 10 minutes to play.
But Lindenow South weren’t done, Howden and Pollard lifting and inspiring their team mates, forcing the ball long and deep on a number of occasions. Max Solomon kicked his second goal, and most important for the season, a freakish snap to put the Swampies back in front. When the creative Sherritt scythed through the Demon defence to kick his third, the match was over. Best players for Lindenow South were William O’Keefe, Pollard, Sherrift, Howden, defenders Daniel Howe and Mitchell Neal. Dylan Hack, Davies, Hayes, Beau Hack and Commins were instrumental for Swifts Creek.
Match review via the Bairnsdale Advertiser.

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Lindenow South 5.4.34
Foster 4.4.28

BEST:

Lindenow South – Teagan Longhurst, Liesel Nunn, Brodi Harris, Shannon Gotthold, Latisha Saunders, Teleigha Saunders
Foster – Bonnie-Rose Waters, Lois Rodger, Ella Carr, Rachael Francis, Stella Brewer, Sophie Barker

GOALS:

Lindenow South – Brodi Harris 2, Teagan Longhurst Teleigha Saunders Sharna Watkins 1.
Foster – Stella Brewer Ella Carr Dee Commins Rachael Francis 1.


BYE: Moe-Newborough


 

 

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