The Omeo District Football Netball League grand final is upon us and Omeo Benambra looks set to claim the major silverware in the senior football and "A" grade netball. Swifts Creek and Swan Reach are the sides trying to cause an upset but it will be a mountain to climb. Who will reach the pinnacle? ODFNL & EGFNL BG & TH MCNAMARA BUILDERS PTY LTD CDB - U49786 Building new homes - where quality counts. Selection Centre: 40 Forge Creek Road, Bairnsdale Display Home: 1 8 Lomandra Boulevard, Lucknow Phone: 0467 220 552
| EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS 2 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Back-to-back flags in reach Reigning premier Swifts Creek is off to the big dance, blowing away Lindenow South in the final term to keep the dream of back-to-back Omeo District football flags alive. A record crowd piled into the Bruthen Recreation Reserve for the preliminary final with the right to challenge short-priced favourite, Omeo Benambra, the prize for the winner. Little separated the two sides for three quarters of the match in a low-scoring encounter played in hot conditions and a tricky breeze. With the game on the line in the final term it was the Demons who had more run, the Swampies looking sore and tired after torrid matches in consecutive weeks. The hero in the final term was Beau Hack, the 2024 league best and fairest, who kicked three goals in a match-winning effort in the final 25 minutes. The effort was what you would expect from the a player of that ilk, but after a dirty first half where you could count his possession on one hand, his ability to work his way back into the game was the difference between the two sides. The Demons led by three points at the final change and the Swampies weren't without opportunities in the final 25 minutes, but they could only add a solitary behind as Swifts Creek kicked five unanswered goals to win by 33 points. Beau Hack was heavily tagged by Daniel Howe for the afternoon, Howe playing in a midfield role after getting the job closer to goal last week on ex AFL-player Ryan Harwood. His goal early in the final term gave the Demons some breathing space, but the Swampies weren't done, Jordan Hack setting Mel Irish up but he could only manage a point. Jordan Hack was a target up forward for the Swampies, taking plenty of marks, but only converting one goal. Demons coach Conor Harvey (two goals) had an opportunity shortly after to put the first nail in the coffin after receiving from Robbie Crellin, but he also missed. Crellin had an outstanding game as a lead up forward, but often marked too far from goal to make an impression on the scoreboard. He proved too good for Aaron Edwards and Jacob Petrac. Jamie Barton kicked his third shortly after, a sensational snap that very few on the ground could have got through, but it's what onlookers have become accustomed to from the left footed wizard. Beau Hack then kicked his second and he let the crowd and his opponent know that he was back in town and victory was close. If you thought that celebration was exuberant, they just got bigger and better, with his third goal he even asked the crowd why they were so quiet. Maybe that had something to do with the large Bruthen contingent believing they had snared his signature in the pre-season. The Swampies were done, their bench resembling the walking wounded, with coach Sam Howden on crutches after doing his knee in the first term. Jordan Hack and Matt Baylis were hobbling around while Petrac was feeling the effects of going in under done. He came into the side to replace ruckman Brad Pedder who didn't come up. To cap off a great day for the Demons their youngest player, Jack Reid, kicked the final goal after running 45 metres and taking one bounce. The first quarter was a close affair with both sides kicking a goal as the quality of play struggled to reach any great heights. With Pedder out, Warren Martin played in the ruck for Lindenow South and his effort on a tough opponent in Andrew Sandy were commendable, with Martin at least sharing honours on the day. Martin was joined at most centre bounces by Howe, Will O'Keefe and the hard running Nathan Pollard, while Sandy was supported by veteran Brodie Cameron, Beau Hack and the smooth moving Ben Commins. Most of the first quarter was played between the arcs with Crellin looking like he had kicked the first goal, only for the goal umpire to indicate it was touched. Pollard and Sherritt were driving the ball forward for the Swampies, while Commins, Richard Crabtree and Nathan Hayes were busy for the Demons. Harvey kicked the first of the afternoon after outmuscling Alfred Solomon. Jordan Hack was looking dangerous and kept Tom King on his toes, but his kicking was letting him down. Pollard levelled the scores as time on beckoned. He ran himself ragged over four quarters, finishing the match exhausted. The game went up in intensity in the second term as the Demons kicked three goals with the breeze with the Swampies able to add just one, the first of the term. Cory Pescod kicked truly after marking, the result of a downfield by Sandy which the umpire paid despite not even seeing it. Sandy was fired up, evident by the clotheslining of team mate, Jay Robbie, which had the crowd up in arms, before they realised they were on the same side. The back end of the term belonged to the Demons, who obviously had read what was written on the back of the team board: tackle, pressure, work hard forward and work even harder back. Enter Barton, who put his spell on the match in just three minutes, while Beau Hack was busy arguing with the opposition runner. He kicked a great long goal after an outstanding tackle on Solomon, before kicking a trademark Barton goal from close range before nearly adding a miracle snap to his tally. The game was becoming untidy as the downfields began to add up, Harvey capalitising with his second as the quarter came to a close, his side 13-point leaders at the long break. Beau Hack went forward in the third term which saw Robbie head into the centre square, but he was keen to keep his distance from Sandy, Russell White his direct opponent. If they were to win the match the Swampies needed to maximise their opportunities in the third term and they definitely came out with a purpose. Pollard and Sherritt got plenty of the ball early, Shane Thorpe and Irish unable to convert kickable chances. Jordan Hack finally got on the board, finishing off a Sherritt set up play, the Swampies were starting to look the goods. Both sides' last line of defences were being kept busy as Crabtree and Mark Cooper began to dominate for Swifts Creek, trying to nullify the great work of Pollard and Sherritt. The Swampies were left to rue the five points they kicked in the term as they drew within three points, as close as the would get. Best players for the Demons were Crellin, Crabtree, Hayes, Sandy, Barton and the match winner Beau Hack. While for the Swampies it was Pollard, Sherritt, Martin, Mitch Neal, Thorpe and Solomon. FINAL SCORES Swifts Creek 1.2 4.4 4.5 9.6 (60) Lindenow South 1.2 2.3 3.8 3.9 (27) GOALS – Swifts Creek: J. Barton, B. Hack 3; C. Harvey 2; N. Hayes. Lindenow South: J. Hack, C. Pescod, N. Pollard. BEST – Swifts Creek: N. Hayes, R. Crabtree, A. Sandy, B. Hack, B. Commins, R. Crellin. Lindenow South: M. Neal, G. Sherritt, N. Pollard, A. Solomon, S. Thorpe, R. White. Swifts Creek’s Robbie Crellin hunts down Lindenow South’s Aaron Edwards during the Demons’ comfortable Omeo District preliminary final win over the Swampies at Bruthen last Saturday. Swifts Creek now meets Omeo Benambra in a grand final rematch this Saturday at Swan Reach. HAVE FUN & GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE TEAMS IN 2024! Bairnsdale Lakes Entrance 1300 724 460 solahartbairnsdale.com.au START KICKING GOALS WITH A NEW SOLAR SYSTEM! 305 ESPLANADE, LAKES ENTRANCE • 5155 2244 • LAKESAUTOPARTS.COM.AU PROUDLY LOCAL SPORT
EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS | 3 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Lindenow South moved into the Omeo and District junior football grand final after annihilating Swan Reach by 72 points at the Bruthen Recreation Reserve. The Swans were looking to bounce back after going down to Omeo Benambra by 75 points in the qualifying final, but were outplayed in every quarter by the in-form Swampies, who will go into this week's grand final at Swan Reach high on confidence. Lindenow South kicked four unanswered goals in the first term, and at nine goals to two at half time the match was as good as over. The Irish brothers, Archie (four) and Mason (three), ran rampant in the forward 50 with Kody Hammer (three) joining in the party with Cooper Jansz and Mitchell Preston, who slotted two each. The Swans played their best football in the third quarter, kicking three goals but were still outscored by the Swampies who managed five. Recent Bairnsdale and District Junior Football Association under 15 premiership players with Lindenow, Jack Kerslake and Jack White, were pivotal players for the Swampies, well supported by Blake Maiden, Jansz, Hammer and Nash Faithfull. Ashtyn Stone and Riley Jakins both kicked two goals for the Swans with the better players being Malakai Ritchie, Jhye Ritchie, Brayden Meyer, Jaiche Scott, Jakins and Beau Newman. FINAL SCORE Lindenow South 4.1 9.2 14.3 17.9 (111) Swan Reach 0.3 2.3 5.3 6.3 (39) GOALS – Lindenow South: A. Irish 4; K. Hammer, M. Irish 3; C. Jansz, M. Preston 2; D. Faithfull, N. Faithfull, B. Maiden. Swan Reach: R. Jakins, A. Stone 2; X. Pepper, M. Solomon. BEST – Lindenow South: J. Kerslake, B. Maiden, C. Jansz, K. Hammer, J. White, N. Faithfull. Swan Reach: M. Ritchie, J. Ritchie, B. Meyer, J. Scott, R. Jakins, B. Newman. Swampies surge Lindenow South powered into the Omeo District junior football grand final with a dominant 72-point prelim final win over Swan Reach. Swan Reach will get an opportunity at claiming the Omeo District "A" grade netball premiership after easily accounting for Lindenow South in last Saturday's prelim final at Bruthen. The Swans will meet their semi final conqueror Omeo Benambra and redemption will be in their mind after a sterling prelim performance saw them defeat the Swampies by 19 goals. Swan Reach started outstandingly, shooting 20 goals to 13 to open up a seven-goal quarter time lead. Swans coach Danielle Ryan matched her opposition's scoring output in the first quarter with 13 goals herself, a strong response after a sluggish start to the side's semi final. The Swampies hit back in the second quarter to reduce the margin to six, however Ryan again stepped up in the final quarter with 11 goals as the Swans outscored their opponents by 13 in the second half to win comfortably. Lindenow South gun goal shooter Tash Fehst scored all bar one of the Swampies 45 goals, however it wasn't enough. The Swans moved runner-up league best and fairest Tegan Benedetti back into the centre after using her in wing attack during the semi final loss. Benedetti played four brilliant quarters in the midcourt to ensure the Swans had the ball flowing smoothly from start to finish. Swan Reach also won through to the "B" grade grand final, despite trailing Lindenow South going into the final quarter. In a low scoring battle South had the advantage heading into the last, however the Swans almost doubled their output for the first three quarters shooting nine goals to claim a four-goal victory. The move of Charli Stephenson from goal attack to goal shooter proved a masterstroke with the sharpshooter contributing seven final quarter goals. The Swans completed a successful day on the netball court with an eight-goal win in the under 17s over Omeo Benambra. A strong third quarter proved the difference, the Swans shooting 11 goals to five to put the result beyond doubt. FINAL SCORES "A" grade: Swan Reach 64 d Lindenow South 45. "B" grade: Swan Reach 20 d Lindenow South 16. 17 and under: Swan Reach 28 d Omeo Benambra 20. Swan Reach netball hat-trick Swan Reach’s “B” grade netballers celebrate after winning through to the grand final over Lindenow South. Swans “A” grade shooter Barb Dobson chases after a lose ball as her side advanced to the grand final with victory over Lindenow South. The team at slates proudly supports east gippsland’s football netball league Call us on 0412 539 747 ✓ Stockfeed ✓ Pet Supplies ✓ Animal Supplements ✓ Elgas ✓ Rural Hardware ✓ Wide Span Sheds FOR EITHER THE HOME OR FARM WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! PH: 5152 3093 | 157 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale
| EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS 4 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 The 2024 Omeo and District Football Netball League (ODFNL) grand final will take place at the Swan Reach Recreation Reserve this Saturday, with Omeo Benambra looking almost unbeatable as it tackles reigning premier Swifts Creek. Victory for the Demons would be a classic fairytale, reminiscent of David versus Goliath. Goliath, a heavily armed Philistine giant, challenged Saul for 40 days to send out a man to fight him. No one would face this warrior until David, armed only with a sling and stones, volunteered, hitting the giant in the forehead with a stone and killing him. History will be against the Demons as well. Since 1970 when full ODFL records exist, only once has the premiership been won from third position - Swifts Creek in 2010. The Demons finished fourth this season and no side has ever won from that position. The ODFNL is all about getting the best possible side to play in the finals and that is what the Alpine Ranges have done, while only losing one match throughout the home and away rounds. The midfield is full of class and poise, led by coach Josh Piper and Ross Ansaldi, with William Cook, Aidan Hayward and Daniel Jones all more than capable of capatilising on the great work of ruck duo Campbell Ahsam and Joshua Jeff. It's a star-studded forward line with local legend James Gibbs combining with former AFL star Ryan Harwood and new kid on block, Harry Warfe, who has booted 87 goals this season, to top the competition goalkicking. The backline is just as strong led by Chris Wheeler at centre half back and the underrated Tyler Betts at full back, with Riley Steenholdt, Brent Hartnell, Todd Redenbach and James Cottrell all quality players by both hand and foot. Swifts Creek was a slow starter to the season but has gradually gained momentum, going into the grand final chasing its sixth consecutive victory and more importantly second consecutive premiership. The Demons defeated the Alpine Ranges to win last year's flag. They are likely to take to the field with 10 of last year's premiership side, while Omeo will have as many as 14. Key ins this year for the Omeo include Steenholdht, Redenbach, Wheeler and Warfe, while for the Demons they have added Brodie Cameron, Daniel O'Brien, Andrew Sandy and Ben Commins. Swifts Creek certainly isn't short of class or firepower but the question is whether they have enough to seriously challenge the Alpine Ranges. Jamie Barton and Conor Harvey are dangerous forwards, while Robbie Crellin often slips under the radar. Tom King and Daniel O'Brien are quality key defenders, with Mark Cooper, James Turner and Nathan Hayes offering plenty of courage, run and courage. Sandy has been a revelation in the ruck, Beau Hack is the league best and fairest winner, while Cameron and Commins offer up plenty of grit and determination around the stoppages. The sides have met three times this year, Omeo winning by in excess of 100 points the first time, and just 14 points the last time the two combatants went to war. That loss would have given the Demons some hope, but it’s Omeo's premiership to lose, it's hard to see the Alpine Ranges juggernaut unravelling on the biggest stage with wise heads like Piper, Gibbs, Cottrell, Ansaldi and Harwood in the engine room. JUNIORS The junior football grand final is an interesting clash, with Lindenow South earning the right to tackle Omeo Benambra in the grand final after defeating Swan Reach by 72 points in the preliminary final. Omeo Benambra was too good for Swan Reach in the qualifying final, outclassing them by 75 points. The sides have clashed three times this season with the Ranges winning the first two contests before the Swampies smashed them by 60 points in the final round. If both sides play to their full potential, it could be an epic contest. David versus Goliath - Is an epic upset on the cards? - There is no question Swifts Creek’s Beau Hack and Omeo Benambra’s Ross Ansaldi will come toe-to-toe during the Omeo District senior football grand final at Swan Reach this Saturday.K202-3416 (2023) ORDER YOUR COPY newspaperphotos.com.au 0422 968 634 info@acemarine.com.au www.acemarine.com.au LOCALLY OWNED, SUPPORTING LOCALS • INSTALLATION • DIAGNOSIS • REPAIR PH: 5152 3573 OR 0467 179 552. EMAIL - JANSONS.CONCRETE@GMAIL.COM JARROD - 0409 179 652 | MEGAN - 0419 179 652 YOUR LOCAL PREMIX SUPPLIER Good luck WISHING THE BEST OF LUCK TO THE LINDENOW AND LINDENOW SOUTH FOOTBALL TEAMS IN THE FINALS THIS YEAR!!! ANTENNAS | FILTERS | CABLE CONNECTORS | CONSULTANCY EN25372
EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS | 5 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 SENIOR TEAMS SWIFTS CREEK V OMEO BENAMBRA ? Jay Robbie HF Robbie Crellin Richard Crabtree ? James Cottrell HB Chris Wheeler Todd Redenbach Interchange from: -RVKXD -H 5RKDQ 6PLWK &RG\ *UDVNH +D\GHQ 3HQJODVH -DFRE 7RPNLQV -HURPH 'RPRJUDFLD 6DP +HHUQDQ -DFN %DWW\ -DNH )ODQLJDQ 7RP &RRN Interchange from: $ODVWDLU &RPPLQV -DFN 0LWFKHOO (WKDQ 6DQGHUVRQ 5LOH\ 0F&ROH 3DW &XVDFN &XUWLV 7KRUEXUQ 6KDXQ )OHPLQJ ? Jack Reid F Conor Harvey Jamie Barton ? Brent Hartnell B Tyler Betts Riley Steenholdt ? ? Josh Piper Brodie Cameron C C ? Beau Hack R Ben Commins Andrew Sandy ? Ross Ansaldi R Jordan Robertson Campbell Ahsam ? Mark Cooper HB Daniel O’Brien Nathan Hayes ? Daniel Jones HF James Gibbs Aidan Hayward ? James Turner B Tom King Gabriel Last ? William Cook F Ryan Harwood Harry Warfe Who holds the keys to premiership glory? While the bookies have Omeo Benambra placed as one of the shortest priced favourites in Omeo District grand final history, there are a number of match-ups which could swing the tide in favour of Swifts Creek. But just how do the Demons get it done? The Alpine Ranges annihilated Lindenow South by 98 points in the first semi final, got through the match unscathed and have had a week’s rest. While Swifts Creek has gradually got better and better, the idea they can get within 10 goals of Omeo Benambra is wild in some footballing circles. The Demons will have to win almost every position, but here are the key match-ups that may help them overcome the odds. STOPPING THE BIG MAN There will be plenty of huge match-ups inside the Alpine Ranges arc, with probably the most intriguing the possibility that James Gibbs and Tom King could go head-to-head. Gibbs needs no introduction, one of the greatest players this region has produced this century, and still capable of dominating a game as he approaches his 40s. He impressed in the semi final with both his ability to lead up and mark at speed and thread the ball through the big sticks. King is a home-grown talent who has claimed plenty of huge scalps over the years, with his late closing speed and iron fist. It’s doubtful King will try and out muscle or mark Gibbs given the size differential, but he has him for speed. If King gets a decent run at the football above eye level, he will be at his most effective. CENTRE CLASH Both sides have a decent arsenal in the midfield and quality ruckmen in Andrew Sandy and Campbell Ahsam working the ball to advantage. Beau Hack showed last week he’s the key player for the Demons. If he’s at his best life can be good for coach Conor Harvey and the miraculous Jamie Barton up forward. Hack could be picked up by Alpine Ranges coach Josh Piper, classy left footer, Ross Ansaldi or the pacy Jordan Robertson. Piper looms as the most mouth-watering opponent. Though he’s a more stay-at-home centreman than a genuine rover like Hack, both hold the keys to starting their side’s attacks. Piper is blessed with the ability to get in Hack’s head as well as hurt him with his precise kicking going back the other way. The beauty of this match-up is you wouldn’t expect them to be shoulder-to-shoulder often, with the contest ultimately decided by who is more effective with the football in hand. COACH IMPACT The Demons are at their best when coach Harvey is inside their attacking arc but his likely opponent Chris Wheeler has been a revelation since crossing from Wy Yung. Wheeler is as effective on the spoil as he is at intercept marking. It’s another great match- up with Harvey needing to have a huge game if the Demons are to be competitive. Harvey is strong overhead and probably has Wheeler for speed at ground level, but Wheeler will be looking to bring the ball to ground so Todd Redenbach, Brent Hartnell and Riley Steenholdt can go to work. For the Best Brands, Best Advice and Best Value. We’ve made shopping at Harvey Norman® even easier! 5153 9700 | 294 Main St, Bairnsdale | www.harveynorman.com.au Your local store, Bairnsdale Open 7 days a week
| EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS 6 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Toss of the coin in “A” grade netball There's plenty of excitement in Omeo and District Netball grand finals with the season's two standout sides, Omeo Benambra and Swan Reach, chasing ultimate glory in the 2024 "A" grade decider at Swan Reach. At various times throughout the season either team has looked the better, only for the other to put on exceptional performance and claim the mantle. Omeo Benambra was an impressive winner in the qualifying final by nine goals after playing near-perfect netball in the first quarter and opening up a six-goal advantage. Nothing went right for the Swans in the first term and they were reverted to playing catch up for the remainder of the match, showing they are more than capable of matching the Alpine Ranges. Tall Omeo goal shooter Emma Bates will again be the player to watch and stop, she was in exceptional touch in the first final and rarely misses from under the ring. Swan Reach may try a different match up this time with Brodi Harris a possibility to be given the job. Omeo Benambra centre Natalie Mitchell had a good game the last time the two sides met, feeding Bates with some quality passes. Tegan Benedetti played as wing attack that day, but it's expected she will return to her customary position of centre this week after a dominant showing in the prelim final. Her battle with Mitchell will be pivotal in the outcome. If Swans shooters Barb Dobson and coach Danielle Ryan are on song early, this game will be a cracker and could go either way, with the home court advantage of Swan Reach a possible factor in the outcome. Bruthen and Swan Reach will play off for the "B" grade flag, while Bruthen and Swan Reach will chase glory in the under 17s. Omeo Benambra “A” grade goal shooter Emma Bates will be a handful for the Swan Reach defenders. Tegan Benedetti is an important cog in the Swan Reach midcourt. Omeo Benambra and Swan Reach will be fine-tuning their game plans for a blockbuster “A” grade decider. ORDER YOUR COPY newspaperphotos.com.au • Gutter Cleaning • Garden Maintenance • Window Cleaning • Commercial & Residential Specialist 0434 799 330 | info@mcgservices.au Get your house & garden game ready! BEST OF LUCK TO ALL THE NETBALL & FOOTY TEAMS IN THE FINALS! Lakes Entrance (03) 5155 6777 | Metung (03) 5156 2555 egre.com.au We hope the games are thrilling & full of great moments. EGRE ARE A PROUD SPONSOR OF 2024. Bairnsdale Advertiser 65 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale Lakes Post 505 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance Snowy River Mail 122 Nicholson Street, Orbost Order your Football and Netball photos from home in 3 simple steps Visit yeatesphotos.com.au. Upload and select your photos. Pick up at your local office.
EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS | 7 ODFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Quality talent on every single line Picking a team of the year for the Omeo and District Football Netball League isn't always an easy task, with players rarely playing all the games, some racking up enough just to qualify for finals. The Advertiser have settled on a mark of eight games minimum for selection and has come up with a side full of talent and firepower. The two key back positions pick themselves, with the competition's leading full back of the last decade Tom King (Swifts Creek) getting one book end, while the centre half back spot goes to Omeo Benambra's Chris Wheeler, who has both been unbeatable and impassable this season since crossing from Wy Yung. Wheeler has a great set of hands and is seldom beaten in a one-on-one contest. The back pocket and half back flank positions are all interchangeable and offer plenty of run and carry. Griffin Sherritt leads the pack, as adept at ground level as he is over head, he's had an outstanding year for the Lindenow South after returning for a stint at Buchan. Will Matthews is a key member of the Bruthen back six, his ability to read the play and dish to a teammate by hand or foot makes him an easy selection. He's also great at finding the correct option at kick outs, which is an underrated art and a key component in any backline. Nathan Hayes (Swifts Creek) and Todd Redenbach (Omeo Benambra) both have had impressive years, Redenbach showing he's lost none of the ability he showed as a youngster. Hayes is the captain of the Demons, leading by example and with plenty of enthusiasm, fearless with his attack on the ball matched by very few in the competition. The on-ball brigade is lead by Swifts Creek's ruckman Andrew Sandy, who has taken all before him in 2024. He's led the mid season resurgence with his ability to punch the ball to advantage, where players such as Beau Hack have benefitted significantly. The centre circle brigade is rounded off by Nathan Pollard (Lindenow South), Beau Hack (Swifts Creek) and Josh Piper (Omeo Benambra). Pollard needs no introduction, the best player the competition has produced in this millennium. After a season at Maffra in the Gippsland League, where he drew a game with Bairnsdale after the siren, he's returned to the Swampies and continued to rack up possessions at will. Beau Hack has had another great season, culminating in a league best and fairest, his performance in the final quarter of the preliminary final getting his side home. Piper is a good old fashioned quarterback, the link between his side's exceptional half backline of Redenbach, Wheeler and James Cottrell, and the side's talented and prolific forward line that contains Harry Warfe, James Gibbs and former AFL star Ryan Harwood. The forward six is star studded and oozes talent and class, one forward flank sees the much-decorated Harley Kenner (Bruthen), who has a handful of league best and fairest trophies on his mantlepiece. Kenner is a great kick for goal when afforded the opportunity to play inside the arc and almost unbeatable one-on-one. Swifts Creek coach Connor Harvey lines up at centre half forward. He's kicked 61 goals in 17 matches this season and has played considerable game time in the middle when his side has been short of midfielders. It's no surprise his side has played its best football when he is roaming around the forward 50 kicking goals at will. After another consistent year Aidan Hayward takes the other forward flank spot with brother Jai plying his trade elsewhere in 2024, the younger brother has come out of shadow and become a competition "A" grader. He lacks nothing in courage and is creative by both hand and foot. Closer to goal, the competition's leading goal kicker, Harry Warfe picks himself with 87 goals in 16 matches. He could he bring up 100 in a grand final. It's a long-shot but not impossible, he's been a revelation as a small forward since crossing from Lakes Entrance with plenty of hype during the pre-season. Bruthen's Jirra Moffat gets the nod at full forward after slotting 57 goals in 13 matches from a combination of fast leads and football smarts when the ball hits the ground. His kicking is accurate and he works hard to keep the ball inside the forward arc. The high flying Jordan Hack is a TEAM OF THE YEAR INTERCHANGE: Jan Cabaybay (Bruthen) Campbell Ahsam (Omeo Benambra) Jordan Robertson (Omeo Benambra) James Turner (Swifts Creek) Will O’Keefe (Lindenow South) Brodie Cameron (Swifts Creek) perfect foil for Warfe and Moffat, he's kicked 39 goals in nine matches and has caused plenty of headaches for sides with his ability to fly high or mark impressively on the lead. Interchange players are important in this day and age with rotations a plenty. Campbell Ahsam has been a key component of the Alpine Ranges success, he gets the job as the back up ruckman to Sandy. James Turner (Swifts Creek) has had another great year at half back for the Demons and is sure to have a big job on grand final day. Jan Cabaybay (Bruthen) has impressed in the midfield, after making the move from Wy Yung, he's possesses plenty of pace and courage. Omeo's Benambra's Jordan Robertson is vitally important in their midfield structure, the former Stratford premiership player's pace and carry ideal for High Country football. Will O'Keefe (Lindenow South) continues to develop and get better each season for the Swampies and is beginning to have a greater scoreboard presence, which rounds his game, while veteran Brodie Cameron still racks up impressive numbers and is hard to beat at the stoppages. 50 50 B Will Matthews Bruthen HB Chris Wheeler Omeo Benambra Todd Redenbach Omeo Benambra *ULɝQ 6KHUULWW Lindenow South C Josh Piper Omeo Benambra 0 HF Harley Kenner Bruthen Connor Harvey Swifts Creek Aidan Hayward Omeo Benambra F Harry Warfe Omeo Benambra -LUUD 0RDW Bruthen Jordan Hack Lindenow South Tom King Swifts Creek Nathan Hayes Swifts Creek R $QGUHZ 6DQG\ Swifts Creek Nathan Pollard Lindenow South Beau Hack Swifts Creek 50 Harry Warfe $QGUHZ 6DQG\ 505 Z ASHWOOD & ASSOCIATES WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL OUR TEAMS GOODLUCK IN THE FINALS! 38 Service Street, Bairnsdale | www.ashwoodassociates.com.au | Kim Ashwood | 0421 868 147 2024 2022 BEST OF LUCK TO ALL TEAMS IN THE FINALS. 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| EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS 8 EGFNL ORDER YOUR COPY newspaperphotos.com.au WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Magpies swoop into grand final Lucknow is through to the 2024 East Gippsland Football Netball grand final after holding off a game minor premier Boisdale Briagolong by two points last Saturday at the Bairnsdale City Oval in the qualifying final. It was the second time this season the Magpies have downed the Bombers, this time ending an 11-game winning streak in hot and windy conditions. Lucknow came in with a couple of surprises as usual second ruck option Jake Richards started in the first centre bounce, with high flying defender Jessie Pescod lining up at centre half forward. Both changes would prove pivotal. The game started at a frantic pace and it was clear Lucknow was going to play the dead side of the ground, even though they were kicking with the aid of the breeze. Both midfields worked hard to give opportunities to their forwards and first blood was drawn by talented young Pie Nick Mooney (two goals) who marked strongly in the square and converted. Kel Porter's silky skills got Boisdale on the board as he danced his way around some hapless Lucknow defenders to kick truly soon after. Lucknow had the early edge through the hard work of Pescod surging them forward, however, the tide was beginning to turn. Boisdale then dominated forward half possessions as the Magpies were forced to counterattack. The regular standouts were to the fore, Andrew Nelson, Jesse Glassborrow and Joel McNamara keeping the Bombers forwards in check while Ryan Halford used his speed to start attacks for the Pies. Porter and his sidekick Tom Jolly (two goals) and the creative Jackson Glenane were creating opportunities for their mosquito fleet up forward. A barrel from full back from Jack Saulle, which landed in the centre circle, started a chain for an unmanned John Gooch to goal. A few quick entries resulted in Ash Smith getting on the board as Lucknow's quick ball movement, which has become a feature of their play in recent weeks, was worrying the Bombers, the Magpies holding an 11-point lead at the break. The second quarter started with a real arm wrestle and the game was played between the 50 metre arcs with both defences on top, the Bombers led by Andrew Quirk and the Marshall brothers, Nick, Ryan and Billy, while Lucknow relied on its stalwarts, led by Nelson, to repel countless attacks. Runner-up league best and fairest Matt Wilkinson was becoming dangerous around the ground with some telling intercept marks, while Richards was dominating the tap outs. Boisdale finally got a reward for its effort when Will Brunt (two) kicked truly from 50 and moments later Tim Dessent slotted another to show some reward for their dominance. Lucknow's turnovers were proving crucial and it seemed intent on giving the ball back to its counterparts at midfield. Against the run of play a chaos ball inside Lucknow's forward 50 allowed Zach Smith (two) to snap truly to stem the tide. From then on it turned back into a scrap between the two arcs with the windy conditions affecting the game significantly. Out of nowhere the X-factor for the Pies Jackson Smith (four) worked his magic with a fantastic snap from the boundary to give the Pies some ascendancy on the scoreboard ticking into time on. Momentum changed quickly in the match from the very next centre bounce as McNamara created a deep entry and Nick Mooney roved smartly to snap his second. Not to be out done, Tom Jolly converted on the siren to tie the scores at the long break, both sides heading in with plenty to think about, the Bombers at times playing selfish football inside 50 as they missed gettable chances, having five more scoring shots than the Magpies despite the scores being level. The game stepped up another level in the third quarter with both teams playing some fantastic running football and engaging in some hard hits. Jackson Smith was again in the action manufacturing a goal to give the Pies some breathing space. The rejuvenated Cal Egan (four) swiftly replied for the Bombers and he was proving a tough match up for the Pies. Saulle had done a good job on Boisdale coach Sam Bedggood up to this stage, however he was starting to get dangerous and his precise kicking into the forward line was providing opportunities for skipper Jim Reeves (two) and the underrated Egan. Richards continued to jump all over Wilkinson, the Bomber big man challenged and beaten for one of the few times this season. Richards was getting first use for his onballers and gaining some valuable territory. Brendan Flinn popped up to kick a major and when coach Shaun Mooney (two) marked and joined the goalkickers giving, Lucknow a handy break. Porter then extracted another ball out of the centre to start Boisdale's reply. The wind was starting to die down and it could prove costly as the Bombers would not have the advantage in the last quarter. Lucknow finished the quarter with a slender five-point lead. The Magpies started the better of the two teams in the final term, Jackson Smith put up his case for goal of the year with an impressive individual performance to get through multiple Bomber defenders and snap from 30 metres. Coach Mooney then made the Bombers pay after a wayward tackle 25m from goal. A critical point in the game unfolded as Flinn was sent from the field and reported for rough conduct against young Shaquille Coridas. Nicol Sandison conjured up a fantastic intercept which resulted in a Bomber goal, which was quickly followed by another from Egan after some smart work from Reeves. Jolly then stepped through some haphazard Lucknow defending to snap a goal from 40 metres out which brought the margin back to two points. Lucknow was doing its best to play the defensive game while Boisdale was full throttle trying to kick the winning goal. The Bombers struggled to make the use of an extra man and Flinn's return didn't make it any easier to score. But the Bombers continued their relentless quest for one last goal that could set up their season, however Pescod and Nelson were standing resolute. With time ticking down Nelson took a crucial mark 30 metres out, Leo Barry like, his clearing kick then a resulted ball up would see the game conclude with the Magpies taking the early entry into the grand final by two points. Richards was outstanding for the Pies and gave the league runner-up best and fairest in Wilkinson a lesson in ruck craft, while Nelson was superb across half back. Jackson Smith was outstanding up forward and in short bursts on the ball, while Halford added spark around the ground and McNamara was consistent all day. For the Bombers Billy Marshall was solid in the backline all day and was assisted by Quirk who didn't lose an aerial battle. The three superstar midfielders in Jolly, Porter and Glenane were fantastic while Egan was a good focal point finishing with four goals. FINAL SCORE Lucknow 3.3 6.3 11.4 14.9 (93) Bois Briag 1.4 5.9 9.11 13.13 (91) GOALS - Lucknow: J. Smith 4; N. Mooney, S. Mooney, Z. Smith 2; B. Flinn, J. Gooch, J. McNamara, A. Smith. Bois Briag: C. Egan 4; W. Brunt, T. Jolly, J. Reeves 2; T. Dessent, J. Glenane, K. Porter. BEST - Lucknow: J. Richards, J. Smith, J. McNamara, C. McAuliffe, R. Halford, A. Smith. Bois Briag: B. Marshall, T. Jolly, J. Glenane, K. Porter, C. Egan, W. Brunt. Boisdale Briagolong star Kel Porter and Lucknow gun recruit John Gooch battle for a ground ball during the Magpies’ thrilling two-point East Gippsland second semi final win over the Bombers at Bairnsdale City Oval last Saturday. The Magpies await the winner of this Saturday’s prelim final between Boisdale and Wy Yung at Lindenow. 540 Main St, Bairnsdale | www.westpointmotors.com.au | LMCT 6382 (03) 5152 1941 Massive 7 year manufacturer's warranty incl. Roadside assistance & capped price servicing Massive savings on all 2023 built - 2024 complied vehicles Ssangyong - Trend Setters Musso voted DRIVE best d/cab under $50k To all the teams in the 2024 Finals GOOD LUCK!
EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS | 9 EGFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Boisdale Briagolong is through to the East Gippsland reserves football grand final after defeating Lucknow in a lacklustre affair. The prolific Bombers could only muster four goals, but it was enough to defeat the disappointing Magpies, who didn't kick a goal, losing by 24 points. The Magpies kicked the only two points of the first term, with the aid of the tricky breeze, that played havoc with skill level in the entire match. The Bombers bounced back with two goals in the second term, to open up a 13-point half time buffer. Luke Pratt was clearly the most influential forward in the match, finishing with two goals, while his brother Danny kicked one, as did game breaker James Whelan, who impressed, and looks likely to earn a senior recall. Best players for the Bombers were Whelan, Matthew Hinks, Josh Neille, Cooper Bailey, Jason Langshaw and Brett Hudson. The Magpies were well served by Joshua Carroll, Ethan Dolan, James Sanford, Tyron Turner and Daniel Gledhill. FINAL SCORES Bois Briag 0.0 2.3 3.3 4.7 (31) Lucknow 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.7 (7) GOALS – Bois Briag: L. Pratt 2; D. Pratt, M. Roberts, T. Ruthberg, J. Whelan. BEST – Bois Briag: J. Whelan, M. Hinks, J. Neille, C Bailey, J. Langshaw, B. Hudson. Lucknow: J. Carroll, E. Dolan, J. Sansford, T. Turner, D. Gledhill. CATS THROUGH IN THIRDS Lindenow ran out 14-point winners over Lakes Entrance in the thirds, the second half becoming a real struggle for both sides to convert as the winds played havoc. The Cats kicked six goals to three in the first half, before both sides added a solitary major in the second half. The Seagulls took the game up to the Cats in patches, but weren't as efficient in the 50 metre arc. Jarrell Hood and Kobe Smith both kicked two goals for the Cats, who were well led by Latrell Harrison who was impassable at half back, joined in the best by the hard-running Benjamin Rutherford, Giorgio Piccone, Liam Irish, Blake Bartlett and Thomas Faithfull. Charlie Goold was outstanding for the Lakes Entrance, never giving up and asserting plenty of pressure across half back, he was well supported by George Ioakim, Baxter Bennett, Harper Davis, Max Stevens and Caleb O'Donnell. FINAL SCORES Lindenow 2.0 6.0 6.0 7.2 (44) Lakes Entrance 3.2 3.3 4.5 4.6 (30) GOALS – Lindenow: J. Hood, K. Smith 2; E. Blandford, K. Callaway, B. Rutherford. Lakes Entrance: B. Buck-McKimmie, K. Grabham, M. Stevens, S. Wisby. BEST – Lindenow: L. Harrison, B. Rutherford, G. Piccone, L. Irish, B. Bartlett, T. Faithfull. Lakes Entrance: G. Ioakim, B. Bennett, H. Davis, C. Goold, M. Stevens, C. O'Donnell. Bombers win reserves borefest Lindenow’s Blake Bartlett launches Lindenow’s thirds into attack during their win over Lakes Entrance to earn a place in the thirds grand final. Lucknow quite literally stormed into the "A" grade East Gippsland netball grand final with a destructive take down of perennial contender Wy Yung. The Magpies surged to a dominant 17goal win, effectively placing one hand on the premiership cup as they await the winner of the Wy Yung v Orbost Snowy prelim final. Lucknow set the tone from the outset with swift ball movement and accurate shooting, however the Tigers didn't help their own cause, a loose opening centre pass going out of court, summing up their difficult start. The Lucknow defenders, including runner-up league best and fairest Hayley Morton, were rarely required in the opening eight minutes as the Magpies, led by sisters Allison and Sarah Redenbach and coach Erica Lynch in the mid court, created numerous turnovers and scoring opportunities for Emma Sanford and Macy Tatnell, the Lucknow shooting duo proving deadly accurate from the start with Wy Yung league best and fairest Caitlyn Wright and fellow defender Sammy Churches having little to no answer. The hot start was all that was required for Lucknow to gain an advantage they wouldn't let up, powering to a 42-25 win. Boisdale Briagolong flew into the "B" grade decider with a 22-goal thumping of Wy Yung. Similar to the "A" grade game, the Bombers made a flying start and were never troubled. Lucknow compounded Wy Yung’s semi final woes by winning through to the "C" grade grand final by three goals, however the Tigers did taste success in "D” grade, outpointing the Bombers by two goals. Lakes Entrance, after a slow start, worked its way past Boisdale Briagolong by 12 goals to advance to the under 17 grand final, meanwhile Lindenow was too strong for the Magpies in the under 15s winning by nine goals. FINAL SCORES "A" grade: Lucknow 42 d Wy Yung 25. "B" grade: Bois Briag 49 d Wy Yung 27. "C" grade: Lucknow 30 d Wy Yung 27. "D" grade: Wy Yung 31 d Bois Briag 29. 17 and under: Lakes Entrance 38 d Bois Briag 26. 15 and under: Lindenow 40 d Lucknow 31. Lucknow unstoppable Wy Yung “A” grade league best and fairest Caitlyn Wright under pressure as she attempts to pass during her side’s loss to Lucknow. Magpies “A” grade coach Erica Lynch in full flight as her side secured a grand final spot with a dominant 17-goal win over her former club Tigers. Sarah Johnson played a key role in taking Boisdale Briagolong to the “B” grade grand final. Ellett Concepts Pty Ltd, CDB-U 53249. Business name G.J. Gardner Homes East Gippsland. 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| EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS 10 EGFNL WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 Tigers outclass plucky Swans An impressive Wy Yung eliminated Stratford in a cut-throat East Gippsland Football Netball League elimination final at the Bairnsdale City Oval last Sunday by 23 points. The Tigers lined up with their best side for the season, regular senior players Jai Nichols, Marcus Savage, Jim Healey and Andrew Thomson taking the field in the reserves. Stratford went in with its new-look forward setup led by Jack Bacon (six goals), with Jack Schultz, Dylan O'Shanassy and Tim Hawkins missing through injury. After a dominant second term from Wy Yung and the third term which was little more than an arm wrestle, the Tigers began the final term with a 21-point lead and the wind at their backs. Swans coach Gavin O'Shanassy challenged his side to keep their season alive, insisting they had worked too hard to roll over in the final 30 minutes. His speech obviously hit deep as Stratford seized the initial clearance of the final term, Jack Rietschel finding Ryan Thatcher who cleverly slotted his second major of the day. Harry Kellow (four) replied quickly for the Tigers after combining with Bayden Ashwood and Aaron Hanuera. For the first time all day the 50-50 umpiring decisions seemed to go the way of Stratford, which was evident by them receiving 14 free kicks to three in the final term, coming out on top in the count 28-25. Rodney O'Keefe played on quickly after being rewarded for a great tackle, finding the dangerous Bacon, who caused plenty of headaches for Jobe Somerville. O'Keefe was worn closely by Joel Waters throughout the match, while Nate Somerville matched up on the dangerous Will Webb. Bacon narrowed the margin back to 15 points and it was back to just four points when he kicked his third goal in just four minutes. Again Kellow was the go-to man for the Tigers, enjoying some more time forward with Josh Broome playing a tagging on role on the dangerous Lachie Channing, Kellow nonchalantly converting from 45 metres to restore some order. As the game ticked into time on it was another unselfish act from best on ground Norm Betts, a chase and smoother on centre wing resulting in a quick turnover, which saw the ball in the hands of Ridge Peters (two) who slotted the sealer. Peters, who usually operates down back but was without a suitable match up, spent the afternoon in a number of unfamiliar roles, including the ruck and as a forward, his two goals on Swans premiership coach, Jarryd Clohesy, a good return. Luke Elia rammed home the advantage shortly after as for the first time during the afternoon the Stratford players' heads dropped. There was plenty of excitement in the Wy Yung rooms as coach Rod Bills encouraged his players to focus on their recovery with a big game just six days away. Bills was upbeat about his side's performance and what lies ahead. "It's great to finally beat a side on the other side of the Avon River, Boisdale and Stratford have been our nemesis this season," Bills said. Obviously it's a big task to win the flag from outside the top two, but Bills put a good spin on it post game. "The beauty of our predicament is that to win the flag we will have to beat the three other sides in the top four, in an even season that will make it huge," Bills said. Earlier in the match Wy Yung dominated the inside 50s in the first term 17 to six, but it was Stratford who lead at the initial break by two points after maximising their forward entries. The Tigers coaching staff pulled the first surprise of the day with Norm Betts lining up in the centre before drifting back a kick behind play where he was dominant for four quarters. He was equally as effective sharking the taps of Tiger giant Brad Daniel and his opponent Floyd Fulton. They had a great dual with Daniel getting the better around the ground, though the big Swan certainly wasn’t disgraced, taking some timely marks in the final term. Bills was delighted with Broome's job on Channing, who still got plenty of the football, but didn't burst from the centre like he usually does, the close checking resulting in plenty of handballs out to players such as Alex Morcom and Ryan Thatcher. Nathan French got the big job on Jack Betts, holding him goalless. Bacon kicked the first goal of the match before having to wait another 11 minutes for the ball to go back inside 50, where he again marked and converted confidently. Kellow got Wy Yung's first and Tommy Stephenson the second after a clever assist from Jack Betts. Jock Overend was getting plenty of ball forward for the Tigers, while Nathan Dennison always looked dangerous and used the ball with class and poise. Many Tiger attacks throughout the afternoon were repelled by Lewis Bolton, whose attack on the footy was only matched by Norm Betts. Thatcher's late goal gave the Swans a surprise lead given the Tiger dominance. Buoyed by the late goal and a tune up from coach O'Shanassy the Swans came out with more purpose and when busy young wingman Jackson Cottrell goaled the lead was out to 10 points. The first 10 minutes of the term belonged to Stratford, but the Tigers found their mojo in the second half, kicking six unanswered goals to open up a decisive 28-point buffer at half time. The run began when the clever Kellow goaled after roving the pack cleverly after another huge inside 50 kick from Norm Betts. Broome got on the board shortly after, courtesy of a 50-50 sling tackle. The Tiger army was up and about again inside a minute when Jack Betts handballed to Peters, who converted cleverly. Ashwood made the most of a free before Dennison kicked a goal that most people would find hard. Brodie Anderson, who was having a good battle with Rietschel, finished off the onslaught deep in time on. Rietschel looked much more at home at half back than on the wing, finding it easier to get onto his trusty left boot. He was also opposed to Jack Halabut who played a terrific game. The third quarter was an arm wrestle, the Swans managing to kick two goals with the breeze while the Tigers could add only one. Both sides tackled strongly in the third term as the defensive lines got on top, Bolton and Norm Betts dominating across half back for their respective outfits. Tom Betts snuck down from half back, where he had been busy, to kick the Tigers' only major for the term while Morcom converted for the Swans after Norm Betts conceded a 50 metre penalty. Bacon was again to the fore soon after, finishing off the work of Bolton and Rietschel. Best players for the Tigers were Norm Betts, Kellow, Daniel, Joel Waters, Tom Betts, Dennison and Overend. Stratford was well served by Bolton, Channing, Bacon, Nathan French and Harry Langford. FINAL SCORES Wy Yung 2.6 8.7 9.7 13.10 (88) Stratford 3.2 4.3 6.4 10.5 (65) GOALS – Wy Yung: H. Kellow 4; R. Peters 2; B. Anderson, B. Ashwood, T. Betts, J. Broome, N. Dennison, L. Elia, T. Stephenson. Stratford: J. Bacon 6; R. Thatcher 2; J. Cottrell, A. Morcom. BEST – Wy Yung: B. Daniel, J. Waters, N. Betts, H. Kellow, N. Dennison, J. Overend. Stratford: L. Channing, J. Bacon, L. Bolton, H. Langford, C. Dixon, J. Cottrell. Stratford’s Jarryd Clohesy and Wy Yung Brodie Anderson had eyes locked on each other rather than the ball in during the Tigers elimination semi final win over the Swans at City Oval last Sunday. Wy Yung’s Harry Kellow celebrates one of his four goals. 149 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale | eastgippslandmyotherapy.com.au • TRIGGER POINT THERAPY • DRY NEEDLING • MASSAGE • CUPPING HOT & COLD THEAPIES • STRETCHING • KINGSTON TAPING • PNF STRETCHING • INSTRUMENT ASSISTED • SOFT TISSUE MOBILISATION FEELING THE PAIN AFTER A BIG GAME? Soft Tissue sport injury Specialist Call Aaron today or scan to book Hope all the teams & umpires have a successful day! PH: 0412 622 404
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