Cats Thirds advance to prelim

The Cat’s Ressies got off to a slightly better start this week, and were keeping within reach of Barnawartha – however, the pressure from the Tigers in the second quarter was too much, keeping Rutherglen goalless while they continued to add to their tally.

By half-time the damage was done. Despite this, the Cats fought really hard for the entirety of the match giving it their all, but couldn’t make any inroads into the deficit, going down to the Tigers by 33 points.

The Cat’s side is still largely a very young team, and for many of them it is their first taste of finals. The club is proud of the improvements they have made all year and the commitment they have shown to their team and club. Club members are sure that if they stick together there will be more success to come.

Well done to James Plummer for running out for his 150 th club game on Sunday.

Goals: Caleb Andison 1, James Plummer 1, Mitchell Huggins 2, Jordan Rhodes 2.

Best Players: Lucas Tafft, Caleb Andison, Jordan Rhodes, Charles James, Tory Oats, and Jay Mase.

Under 17s ~ 2nd Semi-Final

Mitta United 10.8.68 def Cats 8.4.52

Despite the loss, the boys proved they can match it with minor premiers Mitta United in a hard-fought contest.

A slow start, with only a single behind in the opening quarter, was quickly turned around with a strong second-term display, taking a five-point lead into the half-time break.

With the midfield gaining the upper hand, the Cats were able to push the ball forward and create scoring chances.

Unfortunately, in the final minutes of the third quarter, Mitta capitalised on a couple of quick goals to swing the momentum. Despite determined efforts in attack and defence, the boys couldn’t prevent Mitta from taking their opportunities on the scoreboard.

While it would have been fantastic to secure the win and book a grand final berth, the boys showed Mitta they are genuine contenders and will be eager for another shot at them in the big dance in two weeks’ time.

Next week, the boys will face the winner of the first semi-final, Beechworth, in the preliminary final.

Let’s get around them and give them the support they deserve as they hope to advance to the 2025 grand final.

Goals: Mitch Francis 1, Harry Chandler 1, Ollie Nash-Webster 1, Aidan Berriman 3, Hugo Poole 1, Jax Ramsay 1.

Best Players: Mitch Francis, Noah McSweeney, Aidan Berriman, Laiton Hetherington, Jax Ramsay, and Aaron Lewis-Carmichael.

Under 14s ~ 1st Semi-Final

Cats 2.8.20 Def by Yackandandah 6.5.41

The Under 14 Cats returned to Sandy Creek in a must win Semi-Final against Yackandandah.

The first quarter was a tight affair with plenty of finals pressure across the ground. Co-Captain Brayden McInnes worked hard in the ruck, tapping down to the ever-reliable Seve Cottam.

At the end of the first term the Yackandandah Roos held a seven-point lead.

In the second quarter Rutherglen were back in the fight with a goal from Codie Johnson and the backline led by Co-Captain Elijah McFarlane, Jai Richey and the returning Erik Fuge only conceded a point.

At half time it was eight points to nine. In the third quarter Noah Cracknell scored another major, and there were strong efforts from Rio Glenn and Nate Kuschert.

Pressure was still high from Yack who extended their lead to seven points with continued intensity around the contest.

Unfortunately, in the final quarter Rutherglen weren’t able to score a goal and Yack ran out 21-point winners.

Despite going down, the young Cats can be very proud of their efforts on the day and throughout the season.

Led by Ben and Josh, the Cats have never given up and continued to improve and progress throughout the year.

At times they have been undermanned and very strongly supported by several Under 12s players who have made valuable contributions to the team.

The club are very proud of the way the team has played all year and looking forward to seeing future stars return again next season.

Goals: Noah Cracknell 1, Codie Johnson 1.

Best Players: Seve Cottam, Erik Fuge, Nate Kuschert, Brayden McInnes, Elijah McFarlane, and Ryan Moore.

Club News

What a weekend for the Cats.

The second weekend of finals gave the club all the highs, the lows, and everything in between – but above all, it reminded everyone how special the club is.

A massive thank you to everyone who helped the weekend run so smoothly.

To all the parents, players, families and supporters who took on football, netball, bar and BBQ duties – you were incredible.

There were so many of you, and please know the club are so grateful for your support.

To the committee, coaches, and volunteers – you continue to amaze with your dedication week after week.

To the supporters on the sidelines – you were brilliant as always.

Save The Dates – mark your calendars

Junior Club Presentation – Sunday, September 14 at 10am at Barkly Park Clubrooms – please return jumpers/dresses.

AGM and Special General Meeting – Tuesday, September 16 at 7pm at Barkly Park Clubrooms – Your voice matters, make sure you vote to ensure the Rutherglen Cats continue to thrive for generations to come.

Senior Club Presentation – Saturday, September 20 at 7pm at Memorial Hall Rutherglen – as the club close and celebrate one season and prepare to move into the next.

Senior Coaching announcements

Reed Bonat and Dylan Van Berlo have been outstanding, and the club couldn’t be happier to see them continue their commitment to the Cats in 2026.

Mark House will once again be the non-playing assistant coach, proving to be a massive asset on the sidelines, and the leadership group is rounded out with Dallas Colman continuing his mentorship of the Reserves and his strong contribution to the coaching group.

The club are excited to see these four fantastic leaders setting the tone, driving standards, and helping attack another big season in 2026.

But the job’s not done yet Cats family, the U17s are still fighting it out, so let’s see you back cheering loud and proud this Saturday for the boys.