Yarrawonga: 0.4, 5.7, 4.8, 8.10: 58

Wodonga: 2.4, 5.7, 9.14, 11.15: 81

Goals: Yarrawonga: B. Kennedy 4, J. Hargreaves, W. Lutula, B. Schofield, C. Wilson.

Wodonga: N. Spiteri 5, C. Brookes, J. Cassidy, A. Jorgensen, K. Mimmo, T. O’Sullivan, M. Wilson.

Best: Yarrawonga: B. Kennedy, B. Coghill, C. Wilson, H. Wheeler, Z. Fraser, N. Fothergill.

Wodonga: N. Spiteri, C. Morrison, M. Wilson, T. Miller, T. O'Sullivan, J. O'sullivan

The Yarrawonga Pigeons battled bravely in slippery conditions at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday afternoon, but a dominant third quarter from the Wodonga Bulldogs proved decisive, in a gritty contest.

The Bulldogs adjusted to the wet far quicker, kicking the first two goals of the game and controlling early territory.

Their lead could have been greater if not for inaccuracy in front of goal.

Despite the early pressure, Yarrawonga midfielder Cameron Wilson was electric, collecting 13 disposals and laying four tackles in a tireless first quarter.

His work around the contest gave the Pigeons some much-needed spark in an otherwise difficult start.

Wodonga looked to be pulling away midway through the second term, but Yarrawonga responded with a spirited surge.

Bronson Schofield got things going with a steadying goal, before debutant Willy Lutula announced himself with a composed finish.

Ben Kennedy then lit up the home crowd with a long bomb on the half-time siren, trimming the margin to just 13 points.

Nick “Whoopa” Irvine was pivotal in the quarter, amassing 11 disposals and giving the Pigeons some control around the ball.

However, the third quarter belonged to Wodonga.

The Bulldogs ramped up the pressure and kicked four goals to one, taking control of the contest.

Yarrawonga’s sole response came through Jensen Hargreaves, who finished smartly after a clever assist from Kennedy.

Ben Coghill was a shining light across the ground, providing a physical presence and contesting fiercely in the slippery conditions.

The Pigeons dug deep in the final quarter to mount one last push.

Cam Wilson continued his brilliant day with another burst of influence, adding a goal to his name and finishing with 35 disposals in a best-on-ground performance.

Kennedy was also outstanding, finishing with four goals and playing a major role in keeping the Pigeons in it.

Yarrawonga kicked four final-quarter goals to Wodonga’s two and had the Bulldogs under pressure late, but the damage had been done in the third term.

Wilson (35 disposals, 1 goal), Irvine (27 disposals), Fothergill (26 disposals), and Kennedy (4 goals) led the way for Yarrawonga in what was an impressive effort despite the result.

Reserves

Yarrawonga 5.12: 42 def by Wodonga 10.10: 70

Goals: J. Adkins, S. Bigger, D. Flanagan, M. Grinter, B.McCabe.

Best: D. Flanagan, J. Ibbott, T. Dowling, T. Muldoon, S. Bigger, R. Bone.

The Yarrawonga Reserves put up a spirited fight at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday but ultimately ran out of steam against a seasoned Wodonga outfit, falling by 28 points after pushing them all the way for three quarters.

The Pigeons were bolstered by the return of Jacob “Snowy” Adkins, who made his comeback from a hamstring injury and added poise to the side.

Once again, Yarrawonga relied heavily on a group of dedicated thirds players backing up for their second match of the day—each of whom stood up admirably in the tough, wet conditions.

Despite creating plenty of chances, the Pigeons were left to rue missed opportunities in front of goal that could have swung the momentum their way.

At half time, they trailed by just two points and remained well in the hunt at the final change, only seven points behind.

But as the game wore on, Wodonga's experience and fresh legs took control.

The Bulldogs broke away in the final term to seal a hard-fought win, with the 28-point margin not fully reflective of how close the game had been for the majority.

Dylan Flanagan was clearly Yarrawonga’s best player, delivering a trademark performance with his strength at the contest and clean hands under pressure.

He consistently drove his team forward and set the tone with his intensity.

Jordan Ibbott, having already played a full thirds game, was outstanding in the ruck, competing tirelessly and giving Yarrawonga’s midfielders every chance at ground level.

Down back, Tom Dowling played his best game of the season, showing great composure and reading the play well.

He was well supported by Todd Muldoon, who continued his season-long consistency, and Sam Bigger, who sacrificed his own game to shut down one of Wodonga’s most dangerous forwards.

Thirds

Yarrawonga: 3.2, 3.3, 7.3, 8.3: 51

Mulwala: 1.1, 6.4, 8.4, 8.6: 54

Goals: M. Beer 3, S. Trembath 3, L. Eales, O. Watson.

Best: B. McDonald, M. Beer, O. Watson, X. Mitchell, S. Trembath, S. Bigger.

Pigeons v Bulldogs

Round Recap – Football and Netball

It was a tough day at the nest as the Pigeons hosted the Bulldogs in classic winter footy weather; wet, windy, and the kind of mud that’ll ruin your socks forever.

The ground was heavy underfoot, and the footy felt more like a bar of soap than a Sherrin.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t the only thing that didn’t go the Pigeons way.

It was a clean sweep for the Bulldogs across all three football grades.

The Seniors, Reserves, and Thirds all battled hard, but couldn’t get the chocolates in the boggy conditions.

On the netball courts, it was a mixed bag.

Pigeons A, B and C Grade teams put on gritty performances to claim strong wins despite the damp.

Meanwhile, the Under 17’s and 15’s fought valiantly but couldn’t quite get over the line.

Yarrawonga rounded off the day with Games Night.

Plenty of laughs, a bit of friendly competition, and good times shared by all ages.

Mental Health Luncheon – August 9

The Pigeons are proud to announce their upcoming Mental Health Luncheon, to be held during the home game against North Albury.

Guest speaker: Tom Boyd.

Tom’s story is compelling, and his insights into mental health in elite sport are essential listening for anyone involved in club life.

Tickets will be in high demand, keep an eye on the clubs’ socials for details.

This Week – Away vs Rovers

This weekend, the Pigeons travel up the road to another one of their friendly nemeses.

The footballers will have their work cut out for them.

Netball: C grade and Under 17’s should be tight games.

Football: Anything is possible but will be a very hard tussle.

Junior Netball: As always, expect a great contest from the next generation of stars.

Thank You to Our Major Partners

Club Mulwala, Kennedy Builders, Belmores, BETR, RuralCo, The Play Project, Yarrawonga Holiday Park, Yarrawonga Hotel, and BG Finance, the club couldn’t do it without you.

Thursday Night Teas

Join the Pigeons every Thursday for a warm meal, team announcements, and all the latest club news.

Note: During bye rounds, check socials for updates.

2025 Awards Sponsors

A huge thank you to Yarrawonga Hotel, Wig Chop, The Linen House, Rich Glen, Mint Boutique, Free As A Bird, Miss Dolly, Intersport Wingate’s, Jacyees and One Zach, for your ongoing support.

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