Tocumwal 6.3, 10.3, 13.5, 18.6 (114) def Tungamah 3.1, 6.8, 8.10, 10.13 (73 )

Goals: A. Saunders 5, J. Adkins 2, N. McKeown 2, D. Haebich 1.

Best: L. Phillips, G. Montgomery, B. Ward, J. Adkins, A. Doyle, J. Clarke.

Tungamah made the trip to Tocumwal for the second-last game of the season, looking to build on recent performances. However, it was not the afternoon the Bears had hoped for, with the side going down 18.6 (114) to 10.13 (73).

The game was still within reach early, with Tungamah trailing by 20 points at quarter time before reducing the margin to 19 points midway through the second term.

However, missed opportunities in front of goal proved costly, and Tocumwal made the most of its chances to gradually extend the lead throughout the second half.

It was a frustrating performance and one that will leave the group with plenty to reflect on.

At this stage of the season, consistency across four quarters is what separates sides, and on Saturday, Tungamah was unable to produce the level of football the group knows it is capable of.

There are lessons to take from the loss, and while it was disappointing, it provides another opportunity for the group to look honestly at where improvements can be made heading into the final round.

Lach Phillips led the way with another composed and determined performance, continually putting himself in the contest and working hard around the ground.

Geoff Montgomery provided plenty of drive and intensity, while Brad Ward battled hard all day and never stopped competing.

Jacob Adkins was dangerous in attack, finishing with two goals while creating opportunities, and Archie Doyle continued to show his toughness around the contest.

Jack Clarke also impressed with another solid four-quarter effort, contributing strongly when his side needed him.

Ash Saunders was the standout in front of goal with five majors, while Jacob Adkins and Ned McKeown each finished with two, and Brush Haebich added one.

With just one game remaining in the season, the focus now shifts to finishing the year with a performance that reflects the standards the group expects of itself.

The opportunity is there to respond, and the Bears will be eager to end the season on a stronger note.

Reserves

Tungamah 13.5 (83) def Tocumwal 2.1 (13)

The Lunch Time Legends rolled into Round 16 looking to keep the momentum going and wasted absolutely no time getting things moving.

A three-goal opening quarter quickly became a seven-goal half, and the result was wrapped up earlier than a Christmas ham.

With Jezza Kelly and Saunders up and out, the midfield looked noticeably younger and noticeably lighter, yet somehow still managed to get first hands on the Sherrin.

Stiffy Green picked up where he left off the week before, collecting the footy like Woolies shoppers during toilet paper shortages.

Jack Connell relished the extra midfield minutes and finally earned himself a best-on-ground performance.

Mooka went from forgetting him completely to naming him in the best with the enthusiasm of a bloke trying to avoid another media scandal.

Ash Milner turned in another intercept clinic. By three-quarter time, he had allegedly started charging the Sherrin rent for spending so much time in his possession.

Milestone man Matt Powell decided it would be nice to kick goals for Tungamah this week instead of contributing to the opposition’s scoreline.

It was a welcome change and one that saw him feature among Tungamah’s best players rather than Tocumwal’s.

Lach Vearing produced one of the unluckiest moments anyone will ever see. Plenty of cricketers claim they have knocked the Kookaburra out of the ground, but Lach might be the first footballer to knock a kookaburra off the goalpost.

The bird denied him a major in scenes that would have had David Attenborough reaching for the replay button. Lach might want to keep a low profile until the animal welfare investigation dies down.

Rumours of unrest are beginning to circulate between the playing group and the statisticians. Big Cam Nye apparently finished with five snags, yet somehow only two made the official scorebook.

Should the missing three turn up, Cam would appreciate having them returned to their rightful owner.

JJ could not make wood-cutting day because he had already tested the structural integrity of his right hand.

It was another convincing win for the Lunch Time Legends, who conceded just 2.1 (13).

The back six had a quieter afternoon than the designated driver at a buck’s party, and with finals just around the corner, the Ressies are starting to build some very handy form.

Goals: M. Powell 2, B. Krywyn 2, L. Wallace 2, C. Nye 2, L. O’Brien 2, A. Connell, L. Vearing, P. Haebich.

Best: A. Milner, T. Greene, M. Powell, J. Connell, L. Wallace, B. Goudie.

Thirds

Tungamah 12.15 (87) def Tocumwal 4.6 (30)

Tungamah set off for Tocumwal on a beautiful winter’s day for a clash between sixth and seventh on the ladder.

The Tungamah boys had a point to prove, as they will most likely face Tocumwal again in the first week of the finals.

The Bears had plenty of the ball in the first quarter, but inaccurate kicking hurt them on the scoreboard, with the side leading 2.8 (20) to 2 at quarter time.

As the game continued, Tunga found its accuracy around goal, allowing scoreboard pressure to mount on Tocumwal. Tungamah’s defence held strong, making it difficult for the Bloods to find any rhythm. At half-time, the Bears led 42 to 8.

The young Bears produced a ripping third quarter and played brilliantly as a team. At three-quarter time, the score was 73 to 16 in Tungamah’s favour.

In the final quarter, it was great to see some positional changes on the court, allowing Tungamah’s young brigade to shine.

It has been pleasing to see the individual and team growth of every player from the beginning of the season to now.

When the final siren sounded, Tunga was victorious, finishing with an 87 to 30 win. It was a great game from the boys.

Goals: B. Doyle 6, J. Bamford 2, P. Poll 1, B. Krywyn 1, D. Hargreaves 1, L. O’Brien 1.

Best: J. Bamford, B. Doyle, S. Goudie, B. Krywyn, P. Poll, T. Saunders.

Awards: Doyle’s Socks – Lucas Thissen; Bamford Builders – Finn Watson; Central Murray Bank – Billy Krywyn; Tungamah Shop – Dayne Phillips; Intersport Wingates – Mannix Peck.

Fourths

Tungamah 8.5 (53) def Tocumwal 2.3 (15)

Tungamah travelled to Tocumwal for a top-four-shaping game between fourth and fifth on the ladder.

A rejigged back six was required after one of the players decided to take the long way to Tocumwal via Tungamah.

Home shorts were turned inside out to make them look white in some very creative, on-the-fly problem-solving.

A hot start from the Bears was required, and after Judd ripped the ball out of the middle and Kai kicked a goal from long range, the side got exactly that.

An arm wrestle for the rest of the first half had the Bears leading by a goal at half-time.

The third quarter produced some of Tungamah’s best team play of the year, and the scoreboard reflected it.

In the final quarter, the boys ran over Tocumwal, showing that their fitness is in good shape heading towards the finals.

Chase Jarjoura played a dominant game, whether in the midfield or across half-back.

Tyler Buerckner and Isaac McLarty controlled the back line and provided great direction along the way.

Judd Haebich found the footy at will and, along with Lakyn Saunders, again set the tone for the team through tackling and pressure.

Kai Jones gave the boys a focal point up forward and created many scoring opportunities.

Noah Lawless helped himself to three goals.

Des Doyle played well at both ends of the ground, and it was great to see Linc Ridley return after a long layoff. Eddie Pettit found the footy up forward when given the chance.

It was a great team effort, and the side now looks forward to another test against Rennie next week.

Goals: N. Lawless 3, K. Jones 2, X. Whiting 2, P. Smith.

Best: C. Jarjoura, T. Buerckner, J. Haebichs, K. Jones, L. Saunders, I. McLarty.

Awards: Intersport Wingates – Dessi Doyle; Doyle’s Socks – Eddie Pettit; Tungamah Shop – Lakyn Saunders; Thursday Meal – Linc Ridley; Coaches’ Award – Tyler Buerckner.

Fifths

The boys and girl started the game brilliantly, with Ayrton playing his best game of the year and collecting kicks all over the ground.

Dom, Ernie and Hunter were involved in everything, while Marc was dominating in the ruck. Knox moved well, and Curtis kicked a nice goal.

The highlight of the day was little Sully kicking his first goal. It was a well-deserved moment for him. Bo also received high praise from the coaches for his impressive two-goal performance.

Awards: Sully, Mason, Dom, Ayrton, Bo.

Netball

A Grade

Tungamah 54 def Tocumwal 47

Tungamah A Grade continued its impressive season with a hard-fought 54–47 victory over Tocumwal on a surprisingly warm winter afternoon.

The Bears laid the foundation for the win with an outstanding first half, setting the tone through relentless defensive pressure and disciplined team play.

Strong pressure across the court created numerous turnovers, allowing Tungamah to capitalise on its opportunities and establish an early advantage.

Leading by four goals at the first break, the Bears continued to build momentum in the second quarter.

Excellent ball movement, patient attacking play and tireless second efforts from every player saw the margin extend to nine goals at the main break.

The third quarter was an even contest, with both sides matching each other goal for goal.

Tungamah remained composed and stuck to its structures, ensuring the nine-goal buffer was maintained heading into the final term.

A tightly contested final quarter saw the Bears respond with resilience and determination.

Every player contributed defensively, while the team’s willingness to chase, contest and back up teammates ensured the Bears closed out the match with a deserved seven-goal victory.

The win was built on outstanding team spirit, with the players constantly encouraging one another, applying strong defensive pressure across the court and producing countless second efforts. Their commitment to a team-first approach was evident from the opening whistle through to the final siren.

The team extended a special thank you to Emily, Lauren, Tahnee and Stacey for helping out this week.

Awards: Jaycees, Players’ Player and Doyle’s Socks – Chloe Elliott; Club Awards – Chloe Elliott and Keely Holcombe; Rich Glen – Bella Cavka.

B Grade

Tungamah 40 def Tocumwal 30

B Grade produced another composed team performance on Saturday, overcoming a determined Tocumwal outfit to record a 40–30 victory.

Tocumwal started strongly, but the Bears settled, and the scores were locked at 10–10 at the first break.

The Bears began to find their rhythm in the second quarter, working smarter angles through the court and making better use of their attacking opportunities.

Improved patience with ball movement and a strong connection between the midcourt and shooting circle allowed Tungamah to edge ahead, taking a four-goal lead into the main break.

After half-time, the Bears lifted their intensity and controlled the tempo of the game.

Consistent pressure across the court, together with disciplined decision-making, enabled Tungamah to steadily build its advantage.

The margin extended to nine goals by the final change, reflecting the Bears’ ability to dictate play and maintain composure under pressure.

Tungamah remained focused in the final quarter, matching Tocumwal’s intensity and winning the term by a single goal to complete a well-earned 10-goal victory.

One of the highlights was the versatility shown across the team, with players seamlessly transitioning into multiple positions throughout the match.

Everyone’s willingness to adapt to different roles ensured the Bears maintained their structure and momentum, regardless of personnel changes.

The team extended a big thank you to Elli for helping out this week.

Awards: Purtle’s Players’ Player and Doyle’s Socks – Amy Reilly; Hemphill Family – Grace Whitelock; Rich Glen – Stacey Carroll.

C Grade

Tungamah 48 def Tocumwal 26

With finals fast approaching, the C Grade girls have well and truly found their rhythm.

Their first quarter was one of the most complete team performances they have produced all season, setting the tone from the opening whistle.

The heat started to take its toll in the second quarter, and while the goals were not dropping as easily, the girls adjusted well by slowing the play and working hard to create strong passing options.

Madi S was outstanding through the midcourt, applying relentless pressure and finding plenty of the ball. In defence, Eliza and Sarah were exceptional, keeping Tocumwal under constant pressure with countless rebounds and intercepts.

The girls finished the game full of confidence and smiles and are excited to head into their final home-and-away match next week with plenty of momentum.

Awards: Players’ Player and Jaycees – Madi Scott; Free as a Bird – Eliza Smith; Belles – Sarah Govan.

C Reserve

Tungamah 25 def by Tocumwal 34

The game started with high intensity. The defenders were getting tips and taps on every ball, and their three-foot pressure was on point.

Tocumwal went into half-time in front, but Tunga did not let that get the side down.

After an inspirational half-time talk from coach Dan, the players came together as a team.

The shooters worked smoothly together, and the defenders worked as one.

Tunga came within 10 goals of Tocumwal. Although the side was unable to secure the win, the game was well played, and everyone should be proud.

Mim was amazing in defence, getting her arms over everything and rebounding every ball.

Tegan was a gun on the wings and received every centre pass. Ally played her best match in goal keeper and got her hands over every ball.

Awards: Mim, Tegan, Dan, Ally.

Under 17s

Tungamah 49 def Tocumwal 37

Tungamah came away with a hard-fought win over Tocumwal in a tough and competitive match.

While Tungamah played some sloppy netball at times, Tocumwal deserved plenty of credit for applying pressure throughout the entire game and making it difficult for Tungamah to move the ball smoothly down the court.

Charli worked hard through the midcourt, creating valuable space and providing strong options for her teammates.

Emily was impressive in defence, reading the play well and taking some fantastic flying intercepts.

Elli showed great movement into the goal ring and was reliable under pressure, converting her opportunities with accurate shooting.

Despite the challenges, the girls continued to work hard and fought their way through a determined performance to secure the win.

Awards: Central Murray Bank – Emily; Jaycees – Elli; Rich Glen – Charli.

Under 15s

Tungamah 32 def Tocumwal 25

The Bears were keen to make a strong start this week. A tough first quarter featured strong defensive pressure and controlled feeding in attack, with the Bears leading by one goal at the first break.

A different defensive combination featuring Billie and Sienna saw the pair pick off several intercepts, apply great hands-over pressure and get into the shooters’ heads.

Lyla ran well in centre and produced a consistent performance throughout the game. Her defensive pressure created plenty of tips and helped disrupt Tocumwal’s transition through the court.

The intensity of Tungamah’s attack dropped away slightly in the middle of the game, and the coaches asked the team to find another gear for the final quarter.

The players rallied and finished strongly, winning the last quarter nine goals to three.

Asha continued to offer strongly in goal shooter throughout the game and adjusted well to the various goal attacks playing alongside her. Her composure under the post continued to shine through.

The team thanked Taylah, Millie and Annabelle for lending a hand and providing a few more rotations.

The Bears are ready for their final home-and-away game next week at the Bear Pit.

Awards: Players’ Player and Bamford Builders – Billie-Jo Buerckner; Jaycees – Sienna Ridley, Asha Kelly and Lyla Payne.

Under 13s

Tungamah 25 defeated Tocumwal 16

The girls were understandably a little nervous coming up against the second-placed Bloods, with both teams starting strongly and going goal for goal in a thrilling first quarter.

The second quarter saw the girls settle into the game and apply relentless defensive pressure, particularly on Tocumwal’s centre passes.

This created plenty of turnovers and allowed Tungamah to gradually build a lead.

In the second half, the team gave 100 per cent and showed exactly what it is capable of.

Strong defensive pressure, hands over the ball and outstanding defence in the ring created countless opportunities, while the attackers capitalised on those turnovers and converted them into goals.

It was a fantastic team effort from every player, with everyone playing their role and supporting one another. A special mention went to Molly, who was thrilled to celebrate her birthday with a fantastic win.

Awards: Bestfit – Milli Pearce; Jaycees – Charlotte Wren; Tungamah Shop – Annabelle Buerckner.

Yarrawonga Chronicle Google News Panels

Sunday, 13th April 2031

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