Thirds
The Deniliquin Rovers put together a commanding performance in their round 13 clash against Katandra, running out 63-point winners.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
It was a well-rounded team effort from the first bounce, with the Rovers applying scoreboard pressure early and maintaining it throughout the match.
Isaac Behsman was a standout up forward, booting five goals in a dominant display.
He was well supported by Brody Wills and Stuart Benger, who chipped in with two each, while Jesse Jervis, Max Watson and Spencer Cowley also hit the scoreboard.
The midfield and defensive efforts were just as impressive.
Ben Hayes led the way with his work around the contest, with strong support from Sam Conallin, Fletcher Campion and Henry Learmonth.
Jesse Jervis and Spencer Cowley were also among the best, contributing at both ends of the ground.
The win was backed by a strong team-first attitude.
Final score: Deniliquin Rovers 12.12 (84) def Katandra 3.3 (21).
Goals: Isaac Behsman 5, Brody Wills 2, Stuart Benger 2, Jesse Jervis, Max Watson, Spencer Cowley.
Best players: Ben Hayes, Sam Conallin, Fletcher Campion, Henry Learmonth, Jesse Jervis, Spencer Cowley.
Awards: Haydn Sampson, Jesse Jervis, Spencer Cowley, Sam Conallin, Jake Harvey, Dannon Leetham, Jobe Unwin, Ben Hayes.
Fourths
With the Rovers sitting sixth on the ladder and Katandra seventh, the stage was set for a closely fought contest.
The opening quarter was a tight affair, with Haydn Sampson, Ryan Bulmer and Mikey Benger all influential early, helping the Rovers to a narrow four-point lead at the first break.
The second quarter continued in similar fashion, with neither side giving an inch.
Sam Strong and Reece King were rock-solid in defence, while Jobe Unwin provided drive through the middle.
At half-time, the game remained well and truly in the balance.
After the break, the Rovers lifted. Key positional changes — including Taj McCully moving to full forward — helped swing momentum their way.
The young side ramped up their tackling and contested pressure.
Jed Fitzmaurice and Cormick Hardman dominated their wings, while McCully and Callan Leiper proved dangerous in front of goal, kicking two majors apiece.
The Rovers piled on seven goals to just one in the second half, storming home to a 40-point win.
Final score: Deniliquin Rovers 10.4 (64) def Katandra 3.6 (24).
Goals: Callan Leiper 2, Taj McCully 2, Lucas Braybon, Michael Benger, Cormick Hardman, Jed Fitzmaurice, Jobe Unwin, Ryan Bulmer.
Best players: Haydn Sampson, Ryan Bulmer, Michael Benger, Jed Fitzmaurice, Reece King, Cormick Hardman.
Awards: Sam Strong, Michael Benger, Ryan Bulmer, Cormick Hardman, Jed Fitzmaurice, Reece King, Hunter Dunn, Jaxon Beames.
Fifths
It was a very icy morning in Katandra, which made it tough for the kids to get a good start. However, after quarter time, the team really got into the game.
Lykien Buyers was outstanding, ripping up the field and seemingly everywhere at once.
There was some beautiful ball movement through the middle, led by Logan Littman and Tate Parlato.
It was also great to see goals coming from some new forward players, adding to the team’s confidence.
Final score: Not scored.
Awards: Lykien Byers, Zac Germano, Nixon Sartore, Lenny Parker, Braith Leiper, Kayden Atley, Ollie Walker, Frankie Lees, Logan Littmann.
Contributed content