Lakes Entrance has recorded its first win of the season, upsetting Boisdale Briagolong by two points in round three of the East Gippsland Football Netball League at Lakeside Oval.
The Seagulls bounced back strongly after a disappointing showing against arch-rival Orbost Snowy Rovers in round two.
Boisdale arrived as one of the competition’s form sides despite being without key players Kade Renooy, Tom Jolly and Kelvin Porter, with many tipping the Bombers to go deep into the season unbeaten. They lived up to that billing early, controlling large patches of the contest.
The match was halted for close to 20 minutes in the first half after an incident involving Lakes Entrance’s Angus Stevens, who left the field with concussion. Medical staff attended and an ambulance was called, with play resuming after a lengthy delay. At that stage, Lakes had been the more composed side without fully capitalising on the scoreboard.
When play restarted, Boisdale Briagolong responded strongly, kicking four unanswered goals to take a 21-point lead into half-time.
The third quarter was an arm wrestle, with both sides trading goals. The Bombers extended their buffer to 24 points, but the Seagulls stayed within striking distance.
Lakes produced a dominant final term, kicking six goals to two to complete a remarkable comeback and secure a thrilling two-point win.
Coach Darren Martin said the result reflected his side’s response after recent setbacks.
“Our tackling pressure was elite. That was what was missing against Wy Yung and Orbost,” Martin said.
Tom Hudson was outstanding up forward with six goals, supported by Josh Piper and James Beha with two each. Josh Wykes controlled the ruck duel, combining well with Mitch Banner, Sean Smith and Angus McKenzie.
Rugby convert Logan Brown impressed in just his fourth game of Australian football and first senior outing, limiting Boisdale forward Matt Wilkinson to one goal. Small forwards George Ioakim and Elijah Zagami also stood out for their pressure and intensity.
For Boisdale Briagolong, Jackson Glenane, Ben Brunt, Daniel Johnson, Josh Davis, Jim Reeves (four goals) and Will Brunt were among the better players.
Lakes Entrance now faces an unbeaten Lindenow side at Lindenow Recreation Reserve this Saturday, while the Bombers take Orbost Snowy at home in what will be a stern test.
