In a thrilling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish, the Deniliquin Rovers narrowly defeated Tocumwal by just nine points in a closely fought encounter on Saturday.

The final scoreline reflected the intensity and competitiveness of the match, with the Rovers clinching victory 72 to 63.

The game began with both teams showing their intent early on, attacking the ball with ferocity and precision.

Tocumwal quickly made their mark, with Flynn Tonks dominating the forward line.

He was a constant threat to the Rovers’ defence, and his ability to find space and convert opportunities into goals was a highlight of the match.

Tonks finished the game with an impressive tally of five goals, underlining his importance to the Tocumwal side.

Xavier Walker, another standout player for Tocumwal, was instrumental in the midfield and up forward and added a goal to his name.

His work rate and ball use were exemplary, often setting up plays and driving his team forward.

Mitch Collins-Bye and Noah Zadorozniak were tireless in the backline, providing crucial run and carry.

Corey Parish, Drew Haebich and Connor Phibbs were equally influential.

Their efforts in winning contested possessions and applying pressure proved vital in keeping Tocumwal within striking distance throughout the game.

The first quarter set the tone for the rest of the match, with both teams exchanging goals and demonstrating their attacking prowess.

Tocumwal edged slightly ahead with a narrow lead. However, the Rovers responded in the second quarter, tightening their defence and capitalising on turnovers to gain the lead by half-time.

The third quarter was a see-sawing affair, with neither team able to establish a significant break.

Heading into the final quarter, the Rovers held a slender lead.

The intensity of the match reached its peak, with every possession and contest taking on added significance.

Tocumwal threw everything at the Rovers, with Walker and Collins-Bye leading the charge.

However, the Rovers’ ability to withstand the onslaught and counter attack proved decisive.

In the dying minutes of the game, the Rovers held their nerve, maintaining possession and running down the clock to secure a hard-fought nine-point victory.

For Tocumwal, the narrow loss was a testament to their fighting spirit and potential. Despite the defeat, Tocumwal can take pride in their effort and look ahead with optimism to the remainder of the season.

Overall, the match was a fantastic showcase of local football, highlighting the talent and competitive spirit within the league. Both teams should be commended for their efforts, with the Deniliquin Rovers emerging victorious in one of the most exciting games of the season so far.

Final score: Tocumwal 9.9 (63) def by Deni Rovers 11.6 (72).

Best: Xavier Walker, Mitch Collins-Bye, Adam Kent, Flynn Tonks, Corey Parish and Connor Phibbs.

Goals: Flynn Tonks 5, Xavier Walker 1, Harvey White 1, Andrew Dickins 1.

Incentives: Adam Kent, Connor Phibbs and Dillon Kirchen.

Reserves:

Despite a strong effort by Toc until three-quarter time, the Deni Rovers pulled away in the final quarter to secure the win.

Toc players showed great determination, with standout performances, particularly from thirds player Jake Hicks.

Although it wasn’t the result Toc wanted, the team’s spirit and effort were commendable.

Thanks to all the supporters who made the trip.

The team will regroup and aim for a stronger performance after the bye.

Final score: Tocumwal 5.6 (36) def by Deni Rovers 10.11 (71).

Best: Connor Crowley, Jack Clarke, Jack Gowty, Glyn Matters, Glenn Braybon, Jake Hicks.

Goals: Kenny Chellew 2, Glyn Matters 1, Luke Wallace 1, Tom Whytcross 1.

Awards: Cash Incentive - Connor Crowley; Wingates - Jack Clarke; Wanda’s Farms Thursday Night Dinner - Jack Gowty; Toc IGA - Jake Hicks.

Thirds:

The Tocumwal thirds put on an absolute clinic to score a massive win.

Final score: Tocumwal 30.7 (187) def Deni Rovers 0.0 (0).

Best: Nate Grieves, Seth Lawerence, Pacey Haebich, Charlie Locke, Will O’Connell, Logan White.

Goals: Logan White 6, Charles Locke 5, Seth Lawerence 4, Will O’Connell 3, Nate Grieves 3, Jay Dickinson 3, Pacey Haebich 1, Chace Brunskill 1, Jake Hicks 1, Judd Haebich 1, Cody Palmer 1, Declan Cameron 1.

Awards: Rivergarden Chinese - Nate Grieves; P&L Palmer Excavations Canteen Voucher - Seth Lawerence; Baldwin Buses Thursday Night Dinner - Ryan Huang; Wilson Farming socks - Logan White.

Fourths:

The young Bloods faced a tough challenge and were outplayed by a stronger opponent.

Despite the heavy defeat, the boys showed heart and determination, continuing to fight until the final siren.

It’s a learning experience that will help them grow and improve.

The team will bounce back and come back stronger.

Final score: Tocumwal 0.0 (0) def by Deni Rovers 17.15 (117).

Best: Cooper Quick, Archie Chellew, Harrison Wilson, Lewis Petersen, Ollie East, Lucas Baron.

Awards: Coach’s Lure - Ollie East; Peter Absolom and Paul Quick $10 Cash - Cooper Quick; Clarke’s News and Lotto Canteen Voucher - Lewis Petersen; Donovan Tainton Refrigeration Canteen Voucher - Harrison Wilson; Wilson Farming socks - Ava Kruzinga.

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Sunday, 14th April 2024

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