Finley battled hard but were not a match for the Murray Football League's outright premiership favourites, Congupna, at the Finley Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

Despite the final margin - a commanding 98-point victory for Congupna - the young Cats walked off the field with their heads held high.

Against the reigning premiers and current title favourites, they showed patches of promise, effort and heart that bodes well for their development.

The Roaders have comfortably accounted for most sides this season, and the Cats came into the match eager to prove they could be competitive for all four quarters.

The opening term saw Finley make a promising start, holding their own through strong leadership from veteran Paul Massingham and skipper Nik Burns.

At the first break, the margin was a respectable 18 points, giving the home crowd a glimpse of hope.

But in the second quarter, Finley’s intensity wavered, and Congupna pounced.

The Roaders piled on seven goals, with key forwards Kyle Muller (6 goals) and Daniel Schaper (5 goals) causing havoc and making a significant scoreboard impact.

To their credit, Finley regained composure after half-time.

Their third-quarter resilience was on display as they tightened up defensively and struck on the rebound.

Young guns Archie Mason and Fraser Hawkins provided options up forward and helped stem the tide.

Final Scores: Finley 9.4 (58) def by Congupna 23.18 (156).

Goals: Paul Massingham 3, Harrison King 2, Cruz Nash, Archie Mason, James Ford, Beau Lawrence.

Best Players: Paul Massingham, Nik Burns, Archie Mason, Fraser Hawkins, Dan O’Bryan, Matt Jackson.

Awards: Paul Massingham, Nik Burns, Archie Mason, Fraser Hawkins, Matt Jackson.

Reserves

Although it was a tough loss, there was plenty of effort from the reserves for four quarters.

The best player was captain Bubba Kennedy, who led from the front and was constantly encouraging his teammates — a true leader’s performance.

The prestigious Sticks Hendy Mug was awarded to club debutant Pat Kelly, who stepped up in the ruck and gave the team a real spark. It was a huge effort in his first game.

Dyl ‘Chucky’ Maxwell was another standout, leaving everything out on the field. His effort was appreciated.

Other strong contributors included Robbie Hamman and Hamish Kerr, who both played important roles.

Three thirds players — Jeremy Doolan, Jackson Tooke and Elijah Everingham — also stepped up and played a big role.

This week is an away game against Cobram, after which everyone will have a good night at the ball.

Final Scores: Finley 4.0 (24) def by Congupna 16.8 (104).

Goals: James Kennedy, Sam O’Hora, Dylan Maxwell, Robbie Hamann.

Best Players: James Kennedy, Pat Kelly, Sam Price, Dylan Maxwell, Nathan Denny, Hamish Kerr.

Awards: James Kennedy, Sam Price, Pat Kelly, Dylan Maxwell, Hamish Kerr.

Under-17s

The thirds, fresh off a well-earned bye, were primed for a huge game against a young Congupna side at home.

The focus was to continue the improvement from the previous six games, and that continued, which enabled the side to record a nine point win.

With the loss of co-captain Cooper Sutton through a knee injury at training, as well as fellow co-captain Harry Daniel finishing the game at half-time with a slight leg complaint, there were a few holes in the team that needed plugging.

Jeremy Doolan seamlessly took to the CHB spot with control of the position and the unit around him.

Despite a late start to the game, Elijah Everingham proved a great support as well in the backline with his repeated pressure and well-timed tackles.

Through the midfield, Sam Hurlston continued his high possession rate, as well as treating himself to three goals.

Jackson Tooke showed control around the ground with great ruck work supporting Hurlston, Blake Vidler and the rest of the mids.

Tom White finally got his long-awaited chance in the forward line and presented as an option all game.

First year players in Logan Presley, Thomas Marshall and Will Flintoft continue working on all aspects of their games as young players and continue to execute, as well as Corey Dundon kicking a hard fought first goal in the Under-17s.

The boys came away with a much overdue second win for the year, which is a great reward for the positive mindset as such a young side, with their attitude to improve as a team and individually week after week.

It will be a big task this week awaits against one of the top sides in the competition that the Cats will eagerly embrace.

Final Scores: Finley 5.5 (35) def Congupna 4.2 (26).

Goals: Sam Hurlston 3, Corey Dundon, Blake Vidler.

Best Players: Sam Hurlston, Jeremy Doolan, Elijah Everingham, Tom White, Jackson Tooke, Logan Eldridge.

Awards: Elijah Everingham, Jeremy Doolan, Tom White, Jackson Tooke, Sam Hurlston.

Under-14s

This week saw the Cats return to action after the bye with a home clash against Congupna, aiming to build momentum and secure a much-needed win.

Despite a strong intent early, the side struggled to transition the ball effectively through the forward half, which limited the ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

While the offensive execution fell short, credit must go to the defensive unit who held firm under pressure, keeping Congupna to a modest total of 4.5 for the game.

Samual Hay continued his impressive run of form, consistently attacking the contest and defending with great intensity.

Lincoln Cicolini also stood out, showing great heart and commitment.

Despite being one of the smallest players in the competition, his relentless effort and courage were on full display once again.

Jason Hay provided leadership and composure down back, particularly in the second half, where he took several important intercept marks to keep the side in the contest.

Dominic Kelly and Jed Flanagan were also instrumental, both leading by example with their effort and drive.

Ultimately, the team’s inability to work cohesively for four full quarters and maintain a high level of effort across the board proved costly.

However, there are plenty of positives to build on as the side regroups heading into the back end of the season.

Final Scores: Finley 1.0 (6) def by Congupna 4.5 (29).

Goals: Josiah Everingham.

Best Players: Samuel Hay, Lincoln Cicolini, Jason Hay, Dom Kelly, Jed Flanagan.

Awards: Samuel Hay, Lincoln Cicolini, Jason Hay, Dom Kelly, Jed Flanagan.

• There were no games for the under-12s and under-10s.

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Wednesday, 23rd August 2023

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