Round Reviews – July 9th weekend 2022

Nar Nar Goon has pushed a tough week aside to score a commanding 53-point away victory over Bunyip.

Coach Luke Young was told over the bye that his contract would not be extended beyond this year, with the Goon now on the hunt for a more ‘high-profile’ replacement.

But that set-back, and a boggy Bunyip ground, couldn’t stop the Goon from showcasing its class edge over its opposition.

Bunyip started well enough, but midway through the first quarter momentum changed quickly.

The Goon had 11 scoring shots to four in the opening stanza, and missed some very easy chances to take a bigger lead than 22 points to the first huddle.

The second quarter was highlighted by two terrific goals to Goon maestro Brendan Hermann, whose creativity and opportunism stood out from the mud-splattered pack.

Troy McDermott also put his experience to good use…ducking out the back of a contest to kick another.

The Goon led by 31 points at half time and the game was effectively over.

McDermott finished with three for the winners, who had Matt Homfray, Trent Armour and Brent Hughes play terrific four-quarters of football.

Aaron Paxton booted three of Bunyip’s four goals, while Will Papley and 200-gamer Brent Heus never stopped giving their best until the final siren had sounded.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written David Nagel.

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Inverloch-Kongwak welcomed back some troops and looked to kick start their run to finals action when they hosted Korumburra-Bena. And the hosts came out firing, finding their star full forward Tristan Van Driel to draw first blood in the match within minutes of the opening siren. However, desperate to avoid another embarrassing defeat and sporting some crucial ins themselves, the Giants hit back hard, pressing well and booting their first in reply. IK then found a groove and their gun midfielder Oscar Toussaint slotted his first major.The ball then went back and forth between the scoring arcs for several minutes until Michael Eales broke through with a goal, much to the delight his teammates. Van Driel’s second led the Sea Eagles into the first break with a 20-point buffer, as tensions flared, and players were pulled from a scuffle in the middle.

The visitors started the second term perfectly, swiftly moving the ball down to their big forward Paul Fermanis who converted for his first and celebrated hard. IK continued to press and place immense forward pressure on the under-dog Giants, eventually leading to an opportunistic Thomas Wyatt major on the goal line. The hosts lead whittled down to 9-points at the half.

The third quarter began with both sides pressing hard, and the pressure gauge lifted a few notches, drying up scoring early until Toby Mahoney broke through with his first of the day. The Giants were good enough to apply though thanks to a clever crumbing goal off the boot of Bailey Nation.

At the final break, Inverloch Kongwak still led by 10-points. The final term started with more hot footy and IK surged forward and found Van Driel for his third. However, as they had for much of the day the visitors replied quickly, as some rare ill-discipline from IK resulted in another goal to the men in orange. The Sea Eagles were forward press was again set up brilliantly, holding the Giants from breaking out of their defence, despite multiple misses in front of goal. The Sea Eagles finally broke from defence and pulled off one of their classic link up plays, ending in a major to Will Turner, before his captain slotted his second. The hosts slamming on seven unanswered goals to start the fourth, as the young Giants started to run out of puff, with a bench once again full of injured soldiers. They were able to reply with a goal, but Van Driel answered straight back with his fourth, a classy goal out of the ruck.

An unlucky end for the Giants, who were simply magnificent for the first three quarters, putting on some of the toughest pressure the Sea Eagles have seen all year.

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Kooweerup has enjoyed the rare feeling of cruising home to victory with the Demons making surprisingly light work of Dalyston by 56-points on Saturday.

The Demons usually make hard work of winning, but were in control of this one from the outset.

The Demons are one side that could really do with a strong finish to the season, not so much to play finals but to set a real launching pad for an important 2023 season.

The Demons should win their next two, against Garfield and Korumburra-Bena, and take a three-game winning streak into a huge home-game against Warragul Industrials in round 16.

Koowee has won five games this season, but all against teams lower than them on the ladder and need to claim a scalp to rubber-stamp signs of improvement.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written David Nagel.

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Well, you can just about lock it in. Barring a total disaster, the Warragul Industrials are going to be playing finals in 2022.

Now three wins clear inside the top six, the Dusties are looking strong after claiming their eighth win of the season against Garfield.

The Dusties set themselves up for victory with a 10 goal to three blast in the first half, before grinding out the second half to run out 13.18 (96) to 5.4 (34) winners.

Todd Beck was the standout, driving the Dusties forward through half back and the middle, as well as sneaking forward for two goals. He would be one of five players to top score for the side with two goals, as the Dusties spread the load evenly to thump the Stars.

For Garfield, the end of the season seemingly can’t come fast enough. Having now gone winless in all of their 13 games played this year, coach Paul Carbis would be turning his attention to the off-season and the potential recruiting spree the club will need to become competitive again.

Todd Beck, Will Gibson, Kane Oldham, Matthew Herbert, Bailey Beck and Travis Ogden were named as the Dusties’ best.

Garfield’s better players were Zac Soutar, Jack Barnes, Liam Bow, Nicholas Lang, Jake Thomas and Jack Tenace-Greenall.

Match review via Warragul Drouin Gazette, written by Nicholas Duck.

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After the surprise announcement from coach Beau Vernon that this will be his final year of senior coaching at the Bulldogs, the seniors went into this game determined to ensure Beau’s final weeks were something to be treasured. And against the arch-rivals Cora Lynn, the game offered a mouth-watering challenge against a team with seven wins in a row. A sizzling start from the Bulldogs, looking stronger and more tuned in than at any time through the year, saw them hold sway.

A little like the week before, the return from the sizzling start wasn’t what was hoped with 13 scoring shots yielding only three goals in the first. Aside from the second where the Cobras matched the bulldogs resulting in a 22-point deficit at the half time break, the first was to set the scene for the rest of the game, with the Bulldogs dominating all aspects of play.

With the backline – being led by the evergreen Damien Holmes – repelling the Cobras advances, and the Patillo-2 up to their dashing best, the Bulldogs were able to take charge through the back and midfield. Captain Youle led the way in the middle, being feed from the ruck contents by that man Pederson. Billy Taylor took charge wherever he was positioned, Brendan Kimber was back to his best and Jack Taylor and Max Blake causing having in the forward line. A strong supporting contingent with Cam Brown’s scintillating forward play, Orlando Kane-Gillard and Kai Mackenzie returning to close to their best, the Bulldogs looked good all over the ground.

The Cobras certainly didn’t give up. Led by Luke Ryan, Nathan Gardiner, and Cory Machaya in particular, the boys from Cora Lynn kept the pressure on the Bulldogs. Unfortunately for them, they lacked the ability to slice through the strong Bulldog mids and defence, almost certainly finding the conditions not to their liking.

The second half saw more return from forward forays for the Bulldogs, with a 7-4 to 1-3 return. The final margin of 59 points was certainly an accurate reflection of the return to form from the Bulldogs, and an exciting prelude to the final weeks of coach Vernon’s reign at the kennel.

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Tooradin-Dalmore has chalked up a ‘baker’s dozen’ of victories with a 74-point win over a brave Kilcunda-Bass.

The Seagulls certainly weren’t pushed to the wire, but were well held by the Panthers who conceded a maximum of four goals in a quarter.

The Panthers really dug deep in this one, with class commodities Nathan Foote, Chris McKay, Ben Eddy and Taylor Gibson taking things up to the undefeated ladder leaders.

But Tooradin – as it has done all season – packed too many punches, with Julian Suarez booting five and Brady Egan four in a near best-on-ground performance.

Hard nuts Adam Galea and Stevie Robb also played major roles in the Seagulls’ 13th straight victory for the year.

Match review via Pakenham Gazette, written David Nagel.

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Chris Urie finished with 14 goals as Neerim-Neerim South monstered Nilma-Darnum, 37-16 (238) to 3-2 (20).

In another difficult day the office for the Bombers, the Cats soon had the game in their keeping.

The visitor had 26 goals just to half time before somewhat slowing after the break, adding another 11 majors.

Other notable scorers included Luke Kinder with six, Lachlan Bambridge five and Kody Wilson four.

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

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A strong second quarter proved the difference as Trafalgar held off another determined effort from Longwarry and further consolidated second spot on the ladder, winning 11-9 (75) to 9-7 (61).

Heading into quarter time with a narrow seven-point lead, the Bloods added five goals to one to head into half time with a handy 32-point buffer.

The Crows, who have been battling injury concerns of late, hit back in the third term with four goals to one to close the gap to 13-points at the final change.

Trafalgar were able to step up and steady, the final term producing two goals apiece.

Damian Mann finished with four goals in his 150th game while Dylan Farrell, Blake Radford, Jake Nash, Angus Templeton and Austin Byrne were also prominent.

Despite missing key playmakers such as Russell Lehmann, Jackson Caddy, Ben Cuckson, Cole Cook and Brayden McHugh, the Crows were able to put in another gallant effort.

Its young players again coming to the fore in positive signs for the future. Fintan Fox finished with four goals, while Bailey Stephens and Cooper Brown both finished among their best.

Other players to step up included Jake Stewart, Brad Martin and Nick Redley, who proved a good target in the absence of Caddy.

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

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Poowong were forced to make three changes with Steve McInnes, Jaemeel Knecht and Kurt Newton out and Noah Peacock. Paddy Harmes was playing his 200th game of senior football on his birthday.

Poowong kicked to the club-rooms end and were quickly off the mark with a goal to Jayden Sullivan. Not to be outdone Catani replied with a goal followed by a poster. Poowong attacked but managed five points before Matt Cozzio broke the run with a good goal from the pack, quickly followed by Patrick Harmes running in to an open goal.

Poowong opened the second quarter with a point touched on the line, then Catani had a purple patch with two goals to Tom Williams. Poowong lifted with a goal to Connor Cunningham, but Catani went forward again only managing a point from a free kick. Paddy Harmes kicked his second from the pocket, followed by a point and his third goal then Jayden Sullivan kicked his second, Poowong going in at half time with a 28-point lead.

Other than the last 10 minutes when Poowong added four goals, Catani were right in the game with their slick passing around the ground. With drizzle setting in in the last few minutes of the second quarter, it could be tough conditions especially if it continued on for the remainder of the game.

Poowong were cleaner in their ball handling at the start of the quarter adding goals to Zac Gray, Jack Hazendonk and Matt Cozzio and then Paddy Harmes hit the post. Catani received two 50-metre penalties after a free kick was paid resulting in a goal, Poowong attacked again with Alex Henshall kicking a goal af-ter receiving a hand pass, Con-nor Cunningham kicked out of bounds, Jayden Sullivan kicked his third from a free kick. Poowong missed again out of bounds. Catani kicked their fifth with a free kick down field. Paddy Harmes kicked his fourth from the square then Catani attacked hitting the post, Poowong then added a series of goals.

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A powerful first quarter laid the foundation for Leongatha’s comfortable win over Bairnsdale. with the Parrots slamming on eight goals to one for the term. That stemmed from midfield dominance. with Bairnsdale doing well to slow the game down thereafter. Although the Redlegs were outscored in every term, the second-bottom side fought it out. matching the Parrots’ final quarter output of four goals. with Leongatha winning the stanza by just four points.

By day’s end, Leongatha was 87 points ahead with Cameron Stone’s high work rate, ability to mark the footy authoritatively. and knack for driving the Parrots forward seeing him named the team’s best. Aaron Heppell and skipper Tom Marriott excelled in the midfield, giving Leongatha the momentum to ensure another successful afternoon, with both sneaking forward for a couple of goals each.

Leongatha coach Trent McMicking is delighted with Heppell’s sustained good form in recent matches. “He was really good against Wonthaggi and he carried that into this game.” the Parrots coach said.

It was a strong effort across the board from the Leongatha centre players.

“Our midfielders were able to work over their opponents with run and give our forwards a good look at it,” McMicking said. Cameron Olden was one of the forwards to reap the benefit of that, nailing five goals. all of which came in the first half. Young gun Tallin Brill earned his return to Leongatha’s senior side with some bags of goals at reserves level, capitalising on his opportunity with four goals against Bairnsdale. Another young player, Aaron Turton, also performed well for the winning side and managed a couple of goals. as did Jack Ginnane.

Coach Logan Austin was commendable in Bairnsdale’s midfield, featuring prominently in the side’s best players and creating some positive ball movement. He was only behind ruckman Josh Wykes on the Redlegs’ best players list. Wykes was up against an altered Leongatha ruck division, with Jarrod Stewart coming in for his first senior game of the season. Joining Ben Willis and replacing the injured Justin Pellicano. Pellicano is hopeful of returning this week in what should be a good contest against Morwell. escaping structural damage to his knee from heavy impact with the fence against Wonthaggi.

In last Saturday’s contest. John Gooch wearing the unusual number of zero. provided a strong forward presence for the beaten Redlegs, finishing with three goals.

“Early on I thought we had him under control. but he’s a big unit who covers the ground ok and he took a couple of strong marks and was able to influence the scoreboard.” McMicking said of Gooch.

The match was played in good conditions on an excellent surface, with late drizzle making things slippery and forcing players to adjust to wet weather footy in the final term. McMicking is looking forward to another challenge against Morwell, a side that took it up to the Parrots in torrid conditions back in round 5 before Leongatha pulled away to win by 40 points.

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The Maroons defeated Moe by 39-points, getting up 15.10 (100) to 8.13 (61).

An even first quarter was followed by a dominant second term from Traralgon, during which time they kicked six goals to one.

This effectively ensured the Maroons could manage the rest of the game, and for the most part, they looked to have things relatively under control.

Maroons captain Dylan Loprese kicked three goals to be among the best players. His partner in crime, former AFL player, Brett Eddy nabbed half a dozen, and statistically at least was seen by some to be the difference given he kicked 36 and Traralgon won by 39.

Maroons midfield gun Mark Collison again proved age is no barrier, collecting 39 touches, and received good support from Tye Hourigan, Haydn Hector and Conor Little.

Ben Morrow was best for Moe. Others to perform well were Brock Smith, Harri Sim, Scott Van Dyk and Riley and Trent Baldi.

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

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The Tigers made it four wins on the trot after prevailing 20.9 (129) to 10.8 (68), and in doing so, entered the top five as a result.

Travelling to Western Park, the men wearing yellow and black blew the game open in the first term, kicking seven straight.

From there, the Tigers rarely faulted, and added 10 goals over the next two quarters.

Brandon McDonald and Tristen Waack kicked nine goals between them, while prime movers Tyler Hillier, Tyler Brown, Boyd Bailey and Aidan Quigley were in the thick of the action.

For Warragul, former Carlton player Jed Lamb continued his stunning work in front of goal, kicking five.

Lamb has already kicked 51 goals for the season, a remarkable effort in a side that has only won three games.

Lamb’s old Carlton teammate Nick Graham also featured in the best, as did Mitch Smart, Patrick Ireland, Mitch Nobelius and Jye Nooy.

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

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Wonthaggi got off to a flying start against Drouin and never looked back, winning each quarter resoundingly on its way to a 102-point win.

However, Power coach Jarryd Blair felt the Hawks were more competitive than the scoreboard suggested.

“It was a decent hit out and around the contest they were pretty good, but they broke down a little bit going forward and we were able to set up reasonably well defensively,” he said.

Blair was pleased with Wonthaggi’s ability to lock the ball in its forward line and create scoring opportunities. Power’s victory made for a fitting celebration of Troy Harley’s 150th senior game, with the man of the moment honoured with a pre-match banner, and going on to boot three goals. Flynn Anderson was one of the reasons Drouin’s forward forays reaped minimal rewards, performing strongly across the halfback line and earning recognition as Wonthaggi’s best player for the day.

“He defends really well for us and gets involved with ball movement from there, and he backs his decisions in reading the play, then uses the ball well coming back the other way,” Blair said.

Crafty half forward Andrew Murray had a day out for the Power with four goals.

“He works hard up the ground for us and uses the ball well going back in-side 50, and he takes his time to find the right option,” Blair said.

Jack Hutchinson covered plenty of ground as he always does, matching Murray’s four-goal output.

“He’s a talented young player and his work rate matches his talent,” Blair said of the 21-year-old.

Joshua Bates worked hard, playing one of his better games for the year on the wing. He had a positive impact both offensively and defensively. Toma Huther continued his stellar season for Wonthaggi, creating opportunities for teammates with his ruck-work and getting involved in the action around the ground.

“He’s in pretty good form, jumping well and following up at ground level,” Blair said

.Dan Clebney and Charlie Wans were best for the Hawks, with midfielder Clebney catching the eye of the opposition coach.

“He won the contested ball when he needed to,” Blair said of the tough player who is also adept on a wing.

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There was nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Great lyrics for a song, but an even better description for a crucial encounter between two aspiring finalists on the weekend.

With neither club able to afford two losses in a row given the precarious nature of their respective ladder positions, the Demons ensured they will be part of the big time in winning 8.12-50 to 6.5-41.

“With such a tight top eight, getting four points is like winning lotto this time of year,” Boolarra coach Tony Giardina said.

Giardina said his boys started well, kept the pressure on East when the ball was in dispute and responded when East came hard in the last quarter.

The loss was costly for Morwell East who now find themselves outside of the top six.

“Early the game ping ponged, with both sides happy to set up camp behind the ball,” reflected Hawks coach Devon Soutar. “We got totally outworked in the second and we were lucky to remain within striking distance. We got going in the second half and had a sniff late, but that window closed quickly. Frustrated sums up the group right now. After 12 games straight, we’re screaming for a spell.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.

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After MDU knocked over premiership contender Hill End, there has been a feeling of apprehension from most clubs before taking on the Demons.

That even applied to the top of the table Tarwin as they ventured to MDU’s home ground before leaving with a better than seven-goal win, 13.9-87 to 6.5-41.

Tarwin coach Troy Hemming said his boys grinded away and played some sharp football, especially in the second quarter.

“We have a few more players stepping up each week, which is really exciting,” Hemming said.

MDU coach Peter Harris said they were beaten by a better side on the day.

“Had all the play in the first but were unable to put any scoreboard pressure on, then Tarwin got a run on in the middle two quarters.” reflected Harris.

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.

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Tipped to be a big time clash worthy of a big crowd, Newborough’s mixture of youth and experience defeated the big bodied and confident Yinnar by less than a kick.

Bulldogs coach Craig Skinner was really happy to come away with the 8.9-57 to 8.7-55 win.

“Yinnar is most contested side, with the best midfield going around,” Skinner said. “They probably had 70 per cent of the ball in their forward line and we found it hard to go forward. But when we did, we got what we needed.”

Yinnar coach Daniel Taylor said whilst his boys didn’t get the result, it was a great contested game to be a part of with five important players unavailable.

“We left everything out on the pitch and, as a coach, that’s all you ask for,” Taylor said. “As for who was the better team on the day, I’ve actually got no idea. I felt like we controlled the territory game but didn’t get reward on the scoreboard. In saying that though, Newborough could have had us on the back foot early if they had kicked straight. It was just a real arm wrestle and to Newborough’s credit they had done enough to be in front when it mattered.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.

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A win or loss could not have been more important for either of these two sides as they prepared for their round 13 clash.

A win for Hill End would mean a certain top six berth and the end of Stony Creek’s finals hopes. A win for the Lions would keep their dream alive and spell danger for the Rovers.

With the game in the balance for most of the day, it was the Rovers who found a way to win 9.5-59 to 7.6-48.

Hill End coach Mike Santo said it was a good bounce back win against a tough opponent.

“It was a closely contested match all day that we couldn’t quite open up,” Santo said. “I thought our really good players won it for us in the last quarter; they stepped up on some crucial moments.”

However, Santo said “we are still in a fight to make finals” with weddings, events and availability of players over the coming weeks to be a real issue.

Stony Creek coach Jay Aacardi said he expected a tough contested game of football and the match delivered just that.

“Hill End hit the ground full of run, and their foot skills were on from the start,” Accardi said. “The Stony boys, to their credit, fought back. But, once again, poor skill errors really let us down and good teams don’t let you off the hook.”

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.

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A match between two sides at the bottom of the ladder with just the one win between them would not seem like a match of any real significance.

However, if you played for either Toora or Thorpdale, this may as well have been a grand final. This game presented a rare chance for victory, an opportunity to celebrate the hard work over many months, and the Magpies and Blues both attacked it with the same amount of vigour as any side would, no matter their ladder position.

At the end of the game, it was Toora finally securing their first win 12.8-78 to 6.13-49, just reward for consistent performances.

The victory was well deserved and the celebration a long time coming for Toora coach Matthew Ponton.

“What an amazing day for the club to get the monkey off our back and secure our first win,” Ponton said. “We made an emphasis on hitting the scoreboard early and the boys delivered. We controlled the ball for majority of the game but struggled going forward in the second and allowed Thorpdale to hang around. To the boys’ credit, they kept charging and never really let Thorpdale back in the game.”

“Really happy to see the young guys who have been grinding all year get their first win,” he adding, praising Kris Harper, Peter Grant and Jake McFarland in particular.

For the Blues, the loss was devastating. Disappointed Thorpdale coach Ray Pickering reflected, “we just didn’t want it enough, shocking foot skills all game”.

With just five weeks of the home and away season, Thorpdale, like Toora, will continue to search and work for another reason to celebrate.

Match review via multiple publications, written by Rob Popplestone.

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Traralgon Tyers United did their best to keep up with the league leaders, and in doing so, cemented third spot on the ladder with a neat 50-point win over an inaccurate Glengarry. With both sides registering four scores in a tight first quarter, it was only accuracy that saw the Bombers take a near-on three goal lead into the first break. Unfortunately for the travelling Magpies they fared no better in the second term, and only marginally better in the third, as they registered a woeful 1.11 (17) as their three quarter time score.

The Bombers on the other hand managed 8.8 (56) from their 16 shots and had an unassailable break at the last change. The final margin and score line of 11.14 (80) to 3.12 (30) undervalued the Glengarry effort, but when all is said and done, if you can’t kick the ball through the big sticks you don’t win too often.

For TTU, Beau White and Brad Kelleher managed five and four respectively, with White named the Bombers’ best for the day. Usual suspects Michael Jacobsen and Liam Willaton were also among the better performers for the victors.

For Glengarry, it was a case of what might have been, with only three of their 15 scoring shots raising the dual calicos. Callum Mitchell, Michael Ryan and Lachlan Patterson were named best on for the Magpies.

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When Rosedale headed to Woodside on Saturday, it was season-on-the-line stuff for the travelling Blues. For Woodside, it was a chance to arrest an alarming slide that has seen them win just one of their last five outings. With so much to play for between these two evenly matched teams, it was no surprise that the result came down to the final seconds of a 33-minute long final term.

It must be said though that things looked decidedly different at half-time, as a four-goal to one second term gave the visitors all the momentum heading into the long break. With Rohan Diamond and Tom Northe in everything for the Blues, it looked like Rosedale was going to run away with a win that would see them still a chance to claim a top five position by season’s end. Woodside’s dual skippers, Daniel Missen and Ryan Foat though had other ideas. Missen’s efforts up front dragged the Wildcats back into the game, along with those of underrated goal-kicker David Waddell who finished with three majors. Foat too (who set a new games record for Woodside and District at the weekend with 250) was in everything for the Wildcats after the break. Be it winning the ruckwork at stoppages or his dominance in the air around the ground, there was no way he was going to let his side’s season go down without a fight.

As the clock ticked past 20 minutes into the last term, Woodside might have been up by eight points but they were down to 17 players with Waddel sent from the field for an indiscretion. With an additional player on the park, Rosedale was now surely favourites to turn around the deficit and grab the win for their visiting supporters. Had Sam Bristow kicked truly from the free kick awarded after the send-off, the Blues would have been within a single goal, but with at least seven or eight minutes of play remaining they’d surely get their chances. Get them they did but covert they didn’t.

After several more missed shots at goal as the clock ticked toward 30 minutes, it looked like the home side might yet hold on. Enter the stand rule. Rosedale, with ball in hand looking to have a last-minute long shot on goal from distance, were awarded a 50 metre penalty which took the shot to the goal line. The ensuing goal saw Rosedale out to a two point lead with surely only seconds to play. While the league may have adopted the stand rule, the six-six-six rule is not in play, so Rosedale did what all sides would do and loaded up the defensive 50.

For all intents and purposes they looked safe. From the stoppage Foat, palmed the ball down to Ben Johsnon. Johnson flicked a handball to Cam Whiteoak, who burst through the front of the square. His kick found the leading Missen close to the boundary line but still some 40 metres from goal. The clock ticked past 33-minutes as Missen went through his routine. Was it to be the stuff of nightmares or the stuff of dreams? With ice running through his veins the skipper sealed his best-on-ground performance by slotting the shot on goal. Just as the goal umpire was getting into his groove to signal the goal the siren rang out and Missen was mobbed by teammates and fans alike, all keen to celebrate the win that kept the Wildcat season alive.

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The Cougars did their best to bridge that gap with a huge win over Gormandale. With Ben Kearns returning to the side after injury, it was he again who caused the most damage for the visiting Tiger line-up. When he slotted his first major inside a minute expectations were high for another big bag and the little big man didn’t disappoint. Kearns finished with 12, which takes his personal total to 23 for the season against Gormamdale. Thankfully for the Tiger defenders, Kearns was rested for most of the last term. His absence didn’t stop the onslaught however, with Churchill running out 186-point victors.

As if it was 2002 and not 2022, the Churchill goal-kickers list saw the name Tim Darby included, with the regular non-playing coach being one of the winners’ seven multiple-goal kickers. Ryan Lowrie got his teeth into four majors to find himself on the best players list, along with Kearns, but it was Chris Williams who was named best-on for the Cougars in his namesake’s 300th club match.

For Gormandale, Jarryd Garlick and Danny Jago were the solitary goal-kickers, each slotting majors in the last term, while Jamie Bassi, Jai Foulkes and Trent Baldwin were named best.

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Sale City stamped their credentials as valid when they ran riot over a disappointing Heyfield. If things weren’t bad enough for a goal-less Kangaroos side at half-time when they trailed 7.9 (51) to 0.4 (4), they were just plain awful at the final break as Heyfield, still yet to register a major, went to the huddle 85-points in arrears.

Even without dominating the scoreboard as he has in the past, Dr Sam Davidson was putting on a clinic for the tri-colours with yet another best-on-ground performance. Jaxsyn Whitehall joined him in the best players list with four majors, while Ben Brett led all comers with a bag of five. Heyfield finally managed to boot a pair of goals, with one each to Jesse Bedggood and Tyson Graham with James Conway and Brayden Woodland named the best for them.

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In the only game of the round that saw two top five sides clash it was mostly one way traffic when Yarram made their first ever trip to Yallourn Yallourn North. Much has been spoken about Yarram’s injuries this season, and you know things are grim when they are unable to field a reserves side, as happened Saturday. But when players pull on their Demon jersey there is an expectation of effort, and while they were undermanned, the visitors managed to keep in touch with the ladder
going down 14.10 (94) to 6.10 (46).

Indeed, halfway through the third term the Demons were still in the contest, however it was here that the Jets found a gear, and in the end the home side ran away eight- goal victors. YYN president Evan Sheekey noted his side had to fight hard for every opportunity and was full of praise for Yarram’s ruck-man- cum-key forward Dan Vardy. It was the efforts of the evergreen Griffin Underwood that impressed Sheekey the most though. Interestingly, Underwood is still being used across half-back, even without several first choice onballers available, but Sheekey was in no doubt he would have picked up another raft of votes in Yarram’s best-and-fairest on Saturday.

Arguably well held by David Coulthard, Dean MacDonald still managed three goals for the Jets, as did Josh Keyhoe. Best-on-ground Keenan Hughes was the chief destroyer with five. Liam Bentley and Kiefer Sutherland took it in turns to try and negate the high-marking, long-kicking Jet forward, but ultimately it was Hughes who lit the fuse for YYN late in the game, and ensured his side would maintain top spot.

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In a possible season-defining victory, Paynesville levelled the season ledger with Boisdale Briagolong with a rousing five-point come-from-behind victory at the Boisdale Recreation Reserve.

The Gulls trailed by 13 points at three quarter time and with their season on the line they found a way to get it done, kicking three unanswered goals to claim victory. Jordy Farquhar and Nick Pincott both kicked three goals for Paynesville.

Goal sneak Jimmy Reeves kicked three for the Bombers.

Better players for Paynesville were David Ashworth, Ben Mckinnon, Pincott, Man Silva and Beau Haslam who kept inform Boisdale Briagolong forward Man Wilkinson goaless.

Ball magnet Kelvin Porter, Callan Egan, Paddy Mack, Ben Wilkinson, Reeves, and assistant coach Andrew Quirk were all good for the Bombers.

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Lindenow scored a narrow victory over Lucknow, the win consolidating the Cats’ hold on third place on a tight ladder. The game could have ended in a draw with Lucknow ruckmen Deon Grace having a set shot for goal from 25 metres out directly in front as the siren sounded, however the wobbly kick drifted left with Lindenow hanging on to win by five points.

In a game often dominated by the Cats, the Pies wouldn’t lie down and kept mounting challenges and coming back for more. Lindenow had a handy three-goal lead at half time with the four pronged attack of Luke Dyer, Ben Jones, Bayley Croucher (all three goals) and Dylan Bolton relishing the quick ball movement of Justin Gould, Rohan Blandford and company. Jones, up forward in only his fifth game of the season, was outstanding all day as a goal-kicker and stoppage player at centre bounces. The centre bounce contest was intriguing between two of the better big men in the competition, Kevin Bongers and Grace. Grace was good around the ground, while Bongers was damaging at the stoppages, continually giving his Lindenow onballers first use of the football.

Lucknow fought back in the third quarter with injuries taking their toll for the Cats – Gould joined Travis Lawson (shoulder) on the sidelines. Darren Allen (four goals) and Jackson Smith (three) were important players in this period as the Pies lowered their eyes and looked for a target going forward, something they weren’t prepared to do in the first half.

Ryan Halford was lighting up the game on the wing, his inspirational goal bringing the margin back to five points at three quarter time.

The last quarter was an arm wrestle, the scores were levelled at the 11-minute mark when a Ridge Peters downfield infringement resulted in a Smith goal. Will Blackley and Jones goaled in quick succession to give the Cats a valuable break. The game was almost out of the reach of the Pies when Smith kicked a miracle goal to give them a sniff. Grace then had the chance to tie the contest, however way wayward. Best players for Lindenow were Jones, Dyer, Jordan Clarke, Blandford, Bongers and Jack van Reyk.

Josh Carroll was outstanding all day for the Pies, with good contributions from Smith, Thomas Southen, Allen, Grace and Benjamin Purnell.

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The Swans got the job done in a performance at home to keep second spot on the ladder.

The Blues proved a hard team to shake, and finished strongly, kicking two goals and keeping Stratford scoreless in the last quarter.

Orbost Snowy Rovers held a two-point lead at the first break, but the Swans then gained the ascendency, and added eight goals to four over the next two quarters.

Stratford came out after the main break up-and-firing, and kicked six goals to set up a comfortable, but by no means safe, 26-point lead.

The Blues could have been forgiven for thinking a famous upset was on the cards as they cut the margin back to 14-points during the last term, but time eventually became their biggest enemy.

Best players for the Blues against Stratford were Jordan Ross, Wesley Russell, Aiden Giove, Mitchell Fenner, Will Herbert and Max Welsh.

The Swans found solid contributions from Dylan Cartwright, Gavin Bickery, James Channing, Jesse Broadbent, Tim Hector and Alex Morcom.

Youngster Ben Dekkers made his senior debut, and was able to kick the Swans’ first goal for the game.

In celebration of NAIDOC Week, Stratford wore specially designed Indigenous jumpers for the match.

Players took part in a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, while best-on-ground winners received medals name in honour of former Stratford player Reg Saunders.

Match review via Gippsland Times, written by Liam Durkin.

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Wy Yung was at its relentless best at Lakes Entrance on Saturday. The Seagulls weren’t without chances to impose themselves on the match, but they spent most of the day playing catch up football, the Tigers securing another impressive 44 point victory on the back of a blistering four-goal burst to end the third quarter.

Wy Yung led by two goals at quarter time, the margin extending to three goals midway through the second quarter when Jack Betts kicked truly from an easy set shot. Lakes was working hard under plenty of pressure and was rewarded when Fraser Dostine goaled off the back of a long entry. When forward Jarrod Matthews kicked a major from a set shot following a smart advantage taken by Angus McKenzie in the midfield, the margin was back to five points at half time.

The Seagulls were keen pick up where they left off before half time but the Tigers had other plans. Clever play from Jack Halabut, saw him kick a running major, while full forward Brad Daniel won a free kick shortly after, goaling from the top of the goal square. The Seagulls weren’t done, Ben Crittenden snapping truly from a stoppage immediately after and when a downfield free kick was awarded to Patrick Garbutt was converted by Liam Carroll, the margin was back to five points with the 12 minutes having elapsed. Lakes was surging but the Tigers went to another level. Daniel snapped a major in congestion and shortly after had his third when he out marked Ryan Hooper. Dylan Somerville made it three in a row with a long running goal from outside 50, only to be trumped by a Hayden Ashwood screamer in the goal square, which he had little trouble converting.

The Tigers’ lead was out to 29 points at three quarter time, the Seagulls blown away in 10 minutes by high pressure football, effective spread and precise ball movement. Wy Yung found another gear and the Seagulls couldn’t match it. A brilliant quick roving snap by Liam Carroll breathed life into Lakes’ hopes five minutes into the final term, but a smart and poised response from Halabut quickly put the game out of reach. Wy Yung had all the answers and it showed why it is the side everyone is chasing in 2022. Best players for Wy Yung were defenders Jobe Somerville, Dylan Somerville, Mitchell Toms and Tom Betts, Jock Overend the best of a good midfield and Halabut kicked two goals and was a key link player as a high half forward. Sam Nickless was outstanding in ruck all afternoon for the Seagulls, supported by Jake Fisher, Thomas Duncan, Tom Smith and half back Joel Campbell who kept the lively Brodie Anderson goalless.

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Buchan outclassed Bruthen by 180 points with Tyson Siddle, Mathew Dick, James Joiner, Kane Sparkes, Hamish Hancock and Chris Mathers dominating for the home side.

Young Will Matthews, coach Harley Kenner and Ray Giddings all tried hard for Bruthen.

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Swan Reach continued its emergence as a genuine premiership contender with its sixth win in a row during round 12 of the Omeo and District Football Netball League, but it wasn’t without controversy. Omeo Benambra got the jump on the Swans and had a handy 17-point lead at quarter time.

In a rough and rugged second term the Swans worked hard to get back in the contest with Lucky Whelan and Brandon Scott proving great targets up forward. The margin was back to a solitary goal at the long break. Swan Reach lost Ryan Pedretti for 15 minutes just prior to half time when he was yellow carded and reported.

The third quarter belonged to the Alpine Ranges, who kicked three goals to one, setting up a 20-point three quarter time lead. The quarter also saw the Ranges ask for a player count, suspecting the Swans may have had too many players on the field. Their intuition was on the money, with the Swans having sent 16 players back onto the field after half time, instead of after waiting the mandatory 15 minutes to replace the yellow carded player. Some confusion ensued with many people still of the thought that because of the breach, Swan Reach would lose all their accumulated score, however this rule has in fact changed in recent times. The penalty is now a free kick from the centre, a 50 metre penalty and the removal of any score in the quarter of the breach (nil at the time).

An inspired and fired up Swan Reach played relentless football in last quarter, dominating play, ramming home five goals to one to get up, scoring a thrilling two-point victory, in the process moving to a clear second on the ladder. Whelan was outstanding with four goals, his combination with Brandon Scott (two goals) a work in progress, but could be potent going forward.

The consistent Jesse Guarnaccia, William Addison, coach Joel Waters and Will Cantrill all in great touch for the Swans. Travis Balmer was awarded the NAIDOC Medal for best afield, he received plenty of support from busy onballer Jai Hayward, Brent Hartnett, Dale Overall and Alpine Ranges coach Cody Graske.

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Lindenow South and Swifts Creek played epic encounter, which could have gone either way, but the Swampies just seem to find a way to get it done in 2022. Though it certainly didn’t have it all its own way on Saturday, after turning a nine-point lead at half time into 24 points at three quarter time, the game looked as good as over.

Swifts Creek refused to give in and played its best football of the match in a pressure cooker last term. With only a couple of minutes left the margin was only six points. The Demons pushed forward and a Jamie Barton shot on goal looked home before Mitchell Neal in his 100th senior game got a hand to it on the line, the Swampies holding on to win by five points.

Best players for the Swampies were backman Daniel Howe, classy midfielder Will O’Keefe, Christopher Richardson, coach Nathan Pollard, Neil Rawlings and Neal.

Beau Hack was awarded the NAIDOC Medal for his best-on-ground performance. He was well supported by full back Tom King, Cameron Johnson, Mathew Stoddart, Che Davies and captain Alastair Commins.

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