Tungamah 36.17 - 233 def Katunga 1.5 – 11

Best: B. Ward, A. Saunders, J. Adkins, N. McKeown, J. Cheek.

Goals: A. Saunders 9, Brush Haebich 7, J. Adkins 5, N. McKeown 5, D. Haebich 4, J. Cheeks 3, B. Lyall, N. Hill, M. Adkins.

After weeks of building, the Tungamah boys finally clicked in a big way on Saturday, and what a way to do it.

In a performance that was far more than just their first win, the Bears delivered an absolute masterclass against Katunga.

From the opening bounce, Tungamah came out firing, with Jacob Adkins and Brush Haebich running riot up forward, slotting several majors early and setting the tone for the day.

The scoreboard pressure was relentless, and by half time the Bears had stormed to a commanding 17.7 to 2 lead thanks to sharp ball movement, impressive kicking accuracy, and a spread of multiple goal scorers that had the whole side up and about.

Ash Saunders wound back the clock in spectacular fashion, producing a vintage masterclass in front of goal with a bag of nine.

Not to be outdone, Brush finished with seven of his own, while Jacob added five in a dominant display.

Ned McKeown wasted no time after the break either, bursting out with two quick goals and continuing his standout form.

Among the younger brigade, Archie Doyle showed he belongs, standing tall and proving one of the most impressive youngsters on the ground.

Billy Doyle proudly pulled on the SIX/SEVEN guernsey and played his role, while Tyler Green’s run and carry along the wing provided plenty of spark.

In the ruck, Al Rielly was superb, combining strongly with Damon Thomas who came into the side this week and stepped up in a big way, showing exactly how much, he wants to cement his place in the team.

Week in, week out, Josh Cheek and Wardy continue to set the standard, once again delivering strong performances, while Ben Beaton and Ned McKeown were outstanding contributors across the ground.

Most importantly, this was the reward the boys have been chasing, their first win, and one worth celebrating.

The energy, confidence, and belief were there for all to see, and if this performance is anything to go by, Tungamah will be hoping this winning feeling is only just the beginning.

And while the song was sung loud and proud after the siren, coaches Luke and Ned may need a few more rehearsals… there seemed to be plenty of mumbling from the sidelines, but after finally getting the Bears on the board, it sounds like the coaches have at last earned themselves their long-awaited teddy bear picnic.

After weeks of hard work, patience, and probably a few sleepless nights, the basket is finally packed, and it’s safe to say this one will taste a whole lot sweeter.

Reserves

Tungamah 24.16 - 160 def Katunga 0.2 - 2

Well, that game was a victory for the blind community, with the lunch time legends playing 15 minutes of good football over an hour-long game.

JJ finally got his shot at redemption with the pre-game joke. Like most people’s first he was fumbling, awkward and over before it started, but this time he was a polished operator, perfectly timed, clean delivery and with no hesitation. Then repeated it on the football field providing plenty of deep forward penetration.

Jack Connell’s pre-game might have hit the Katunga white board with similar comments to Ben McKay, but he definitely gave the boys a few items to jot down by the end of the game.

The birthday boy Jezza Kelly doesn’t look a day over 45 and moving like a houseboat, probably more of a Jaxon Prior player.

Cam NYE was red hot early kicking 5 in the first quarter. As two’s football goes though when goals are plentiful, the boys flooded the forward 50 like it was 2004 Indonesia. By this point position changes were about as useful as rearranging the deck chairs on the titanic.

Judd Heabich would be one of the youngest debuts I’ve seen, the bloke might have been giving away the best part of 100kg but didn’t stop him from slotting a major.

The poor backline were like the lighting guy on the casting couch, front row view but strictly hands off.

Worried the body would cool down and he’d do more hamstring damage than the Hawthorn trainer, Rangi had a run for the other side. The league vote card will read 3 votes T Hayes, the real question is will it be Tunga or Katunga.

Other noteworthy events, Mooka got the full treatment, rub down and strapped just to flick some magnets, coaching is clearly taking its toll.

Best: J. Walker, C. Nye, J. Jones, J. Clarke, J. Connell.

Goals: C. Nye 8, M. Beer 4, J. Walker 2, W. Prescott. 2, L. Wallace 2, T. Hayes, J. Kelly, L. Vearing, J. Haebichs, J. Clarke, P. Haebich.

Thirds

Tungamah 6.10 - 46 def Katunga 2.4 - 16

Back on home turf against Katunga this time and the Bears came out of the blocks well.

The boys jumped away to an early lead at quarter time, up by 20 points at the first break.

Their second quarter saw Katunga bring a more physical game and take it up to our boys with a much more even quarter playing out, with Tungamah going into half time with a 17-point lead. After the break, the bears showed some good ball movement to add scoreboard pressure to Katunga in a physical third quarter.

The last quarter saw some good hard footy from both teams as Katunga closed the gap.

With Tungamah not displaying their normal silky skills, making some skill errors, it gives the boys something to refine this week at training.

The Bears did well to come away with the win and we look forward to next week. Great work boys!

Goals: J. Bamford 2, K. Morritt 1, Z. Bramich 1, X. Chessells 1, B. Doyle 1

Best: T. Newbery, S. Garner, C. Weeks, J. Garner, J. Culton, B. Hansen

Awards: Doyle’s socks - Nate Dickins, Bamford Builders - Xav Chessells, Central Murray Bank - Dayne Phillips, Tungamah Shop - Harry Cummins.

Fourths

Tungamah 14.15 - 99 def Katunga 0.0 - 0

The young cubs were back at home and eager to continue their red-hot start to the year against the Swannie’s.

With a bit of wind around, Katunga decided to employ the flood in our attacking end.

This worked for a while as the boys found it difficult to score from the dead pocket, but once our midfielders worked out we needed to go the short way home, the scoreboard began to tick over.

Judd Haebich continued his rich vein of form, driving the ball from centre to deep forward consistently.

Chase Jarjoura ran and carried the ball all day and was pinpoint with his kicking, as was Ryder Kelly. Ryders, second and third efforts were really noticeable, considerably bumping up his disposal count.

After starting down back Kai Jones had a run up forward and reminded the selectors, he is a great target with 3 goals, Noah Lawless again stood out all over the ground with his pressure a highlight, and speaking of pressure Roley Cummins was electric up forward, consistently locking the ball in for score assists.

Other honourable mentions were Tom Cummins, Peyton Smith, Ernie Inchbold and Julian Johnson, who kept repelling the opposition attacks. The boys now sit atop the ladder with a trip to tackle second placed Rennie next week with both teams undefeated.

Goals: K. Jones 3, E. Pettit 3, D. Doyle 2, J. Jones, D. Cummins, J. Haebich, R. Kelly, N. Lawless, C. Jarjoura

Best: J. Haebichs, C. Jarjoura, R. Kelly, K. Jones, R. Cummins, N. Lawless

Awards: Tungamah Shop - Tom Cummins, Wingates - Peyton Smith, TFNC Canteen - Ernie Inchbold, Doyles Socks – Julian Johnson, Coaches Award - Roley Cummins.

Fifths

The boys and girl were up early ready to take on a full-strength Swans team, from the outset Dom and Ernie was unstoppable in everything and kicking goals, Kobi mid was playing his best game of the year and Knox Haebich and

Mason Thompson were also having a real crack.

Mark Connell was holding down the back line and hunter also had a great game, in the last quarter Curtis was throwing himself at every contest as Ernie kicked the boys away to a pretty comfortable lead, the team’s best game by far this season. Awesome job.

Awards - Ernie, Dom, Kobi M, Hunter

Netball

A Grade

Tungamah 65 def Katunga 22

Tungamah hosted Katunga at the Bear Pit and the home side certainly rose to the occasion, delivering a dominant 65–22 victory. Tungamah came out firing, setting a high standard early with a very strong start to take a commanding 16–3 lead at quarter time.

The pressure continued through the second term, with consistent ball movement and teamwork allowing Tungamah to extend their advantage to a 22-goal lead by half time. Flexibility across the court saw players move confidently between shooting and defensive roles for the second half.

By three-quarter time the margin had increased to 33 goals, with the Bears maintaining intensity and composure. The final quarter saw Tungamah run out the game well and record a 43-goal victory. Plenty of hand-over-each-ball defence generated numerous turnovers during the game, and the strong support and backup from every player highlighted just how well the team is coming together.

Sophie Coghill continues to settle seamlessly into the side earning well-deserved recognition from her teammates by being awarded the Players Player Award.

Awards: Players Player - Sophie Coghill, Club Award - Sophie Coghill & Keely Holcombe, Jaycees Award - Bella Cavka, Free as a Bird - Grace Whitelock.

B Grade

Tungamah 43 def Katunga 31

Tungamah recorded a strong win over Katunga in a hard-fought contest that showcased patience, teamwork and relentless defensive pressure. The Bears began with intent, applying pressure all over the court and feeding into the ring with calm, composed ball movement. Tungamah held a narrow two-goal lead at quarter time.

The second quarter proved pivotal, with Tungamah lifting another gear. Defensive pressure forced errors, while well-timed tips and taps went to advantage, allowing for clean and patient feeds to the shooters. This consistent effort across all areas of the court helped build a crucial buffer that Katunga struggled to reel in. The second half was tightly contested, with some clever position changes helping Tungamah maintain control. The Bears continued to work hard for each other, with great support across the court resulting in a 12-goal win. Thanks to Elli and Emily for helping this week.

Awards; Players Player & Purtle's Electrical - Maddi Cheek, Hemphill Award - Tahnee Pearce, Jaycees - Amy Reilly.

C Grade

Tungamah 24 def by Katunga 34

Coming up against last year’s premiers, we knew it would be a long and hard-fought game. The girls started strongly, taking an early lead with a couple of opening quarter goals. However, Katunga used their experience to work their way back and level the scores by quarter time.

We dropped our heads a little in the second quarter, allowing the momentum to slip and Katunga to edge ahead. After making a few small changes at the main break, the girls responded brilliantly and came out firing in the third and fourth quarters.

Jorja was rock solid down back in defence, earning herself Players’ Player. She worked tirelessly all game, with relentless pressure and strong rebounding efforts that were crucial in turning defence into attack for the team.

Madi K and Maddi S also worked hard all game against some tough, physical opponents. Both competed strongly right until the final whistle, and we are very proud of their efforts.

In the end, it just wasn’t our day, but you often learn more from your losses than your wins. We are proud of the team effort to fight our way back into the game after half time and show great determination.

Awards: Players Player & Jaycees - Jorja Goldman, Free as a Bird - Madi Kelly, One Zach Towel - Maddi Scott.

C Reserve

Tungamah 22 drew with Katunga 22

The girls knew they were in for a challenge against the Swannies this week but they came out with their heads held high ready to get the job done.

Our defenders worked tirelessly all day not letting a rebound slip through there fingers or a turnover go past them, through the mid court the girls provided strong forward leads and plenty of options at every opportunity right through to our goalies who had a day out shooting from all different ranges and rebounding well against a tall defence line.

The girls are fired up for next week and to move on to bigger and better things.

Awards: Judds & Players Player -Tegan Barkley, Free as a Bird - Mim Barnett, Miss Dolly - Remi McPherson.

Under 17s

Tungamah 73 defeated Katunga 22

This week the 17s faced a hardworking Katunga side. It was a slow start to the game, but the girls quickly found their rhythm and were able to take control. Strong pressure was applied at both ends of the court, creating multiple turnovers and plenty of opportunities.

The attacking end worked tirelessly across the court, successfully putting into practice the skills and structures we have been focusing on at training. Great positioning and movement allowed for smooth transitions and accurate feeding into the goal circle.

Defensively, the girls applied excellent hands-over pressure and worked cohesively as a unit, which led to several key intercepts and turnovers. It was a strong team performance with consistent effort and determination shown throughout all four quarters.

Awards: Central Murray Bank – Chloe, Jaycees – Emily, Doyles Socks – Elli.

Under 15s

Tungamah 39 def Katunga 16

Back on our home turf the Bears took on the Swans for the first game of the day.

The team reflected on last week and made a commitment to come out strong from the first whistle. The players certainly delivered on that with the scores 16 to 3 at the first break.

The second quarter saw several changes to positions and the team adjusted well. Paige and Asha continued to build in attack with lots of movement aiming to create space.

The defensive pressure continued in the second half with the coaches asking for a focus on good body position and clean attack on the ball.

Some fatigue crept in and this resulted in some turnovers against us in the third quarter with players driving away from the ball rather than forward. Lyla continued to work hard in C with lots of defensive pressure and strong drives in attack.

At the final break the coaches asked for one final push to finish the game clean, strong and with heaps of pressure.

A strong game with just little things to work on to continue to build for the rest of the season.

Awards: Players player & Doyle’s socks Paige Bamford, Bamford Builders - Lyla Payne, Tungamah Shop - Asha Kelly.

Under 13s

Tungamah 35 def Katunga 6

Tungamah U13s delivered another outstanding performance, defeating Katunga 35–6 in a dominant display from start to finish.

The girls came out strong from the first whistle, with every player contributing to a fantastic team effort. Defensive pressure across the entire court was a standout, forcing numerous turnovers and allowing for quick, clean transitions into the attacking end. The attacking end capitalised beautifully, with accurate shooting and great composure ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking over.

It was a well-rounded performance, but there are still a few areas to sharpen up at training this week, including sideline throw-ins, footwork, and driving strongly towards the ball.

Overall, another fantastic win for the team, with great teamwork, effort, and improvement shown by all players.

Awards: Bestfit Windscreens - Georgie Burns, Tungamah Shop - Taylah Chessells, Jaycees - Annabelle Buerckner.

Under 11s

A strong team effort this week, with all 12 girls contributing across 6 quarters. Communication continues to improve, with great use of names, and defensive pressure was a real highlight.

With a full team, we were able to play 6 quarters, instead of 4, giving the girls 25% more game time (2 extra quarters). Most players received 3–4 quarters, essentially a full or near full traditional game. We are also working on driving, with older and more experienced players leading the way and helping others step up.

Rotations ensured everyone had the opportunity to contribute. Having a full squad created the opportunity for others to take the court who otherwise wouldn’t and stronger players to be leaders to the developing players. Overall, a really positive game with great teamwork and effort.

Awards: Jaycees -Dusti Pearce, TFNC: - Tilly Lawless, Tungamah general store- Demmi Pearce

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Monday, 29th March 2027

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