Jerilderie controlled their contest from the outset against Mathoura on Saturday, to secure their position in sixth place with the finals just around the corner.

The occasion was a fantastic one, with both clubs proudly wearing Indigenous guernseys in recognition of the round, creating a great atmosphere before the first bounce.

The Demons constantly won the ball at the source and applied relentless pressure to keep Mathoura on the back foot for most of the afternoon.

Bohdi Beasley was outstanding around the stoppages, playing the role of an inside bull while also using the football with precision once he won it. His work in the contest set the tone for the visitors all day.

Up forward, Brad Aylett and Kane Hawkins proved unstoppable, combining for 12 goals in a dominant display that constantly punished the Mathoura defence.

Tom Sleigh and Chas Retallick covered every blade of grass on the wings, filling the stat sheet with tireless running, clean ball use and plenty of drive as they linked defence to attack throughout the match.

Veteran Chris Marshall wound back the clock with a vintage performance, controlling the game with his experience and composure.

His influence was recognised by the hosts, with the Mathoura hierarchy awarding him Best on Ground.

The afternoon also produced one of the lighter moments of the season, when Brad Aylett claimed he'd taken ‘mark of the year’.

While the crowd certainly enjoyed the effort, the SRN photographer probably wouldn't have managed to slide underneath his toes for the traditional photo!

With another comprehensive win on the board, Jerilderie will take plenty of confidence into the closing stages of the season, continuing to build the form and cohesion needed for the challenges ahead.

Final score: Mathoura 5.4 (34) def by Jerilderie 20.9 (129)

Reserves

Jerilderie were looking to back up the win against Rennie. It was clear from the first bounce it was going to be a physical game with both sides standing their ground.

Mathoura got off to a good start getting the first few goals on the board, with the Demons a bit slow getting going.

Logan Eldridge was a clear stand out all day, battling through the midfield after stepping up from the thirds.

Josh and Corey Curtis were solid in defence, providing great pressure and run off half back.

The game was hard fought going back and forth, but unfortunately with a few players going down with injuries and running out of legs the game slipped away, and the Demons went down by four goals.

Final score: Mathoura 7.10 (52) def Jerilderie 3.7 (25)

Thirds

The Demons came ready to play, attacking every contest with intensity in what was a true team performance, with every player willing to work for one another.

Blake Davidson was outstanding in the ruck, giving the midfield first use all day with a dominant display. Logan Eldridge and Evan Lawton controlled the middle of the ground with their relentless work rate and ability to win the footy around the contest.

Up forward, James Winn put on a clinic, finishing with eight majors while also creating countless opportunities for his teammates with his selfless play and class around goal.

Down back, Cooper Gurciullo once again stood tall in defence, restricting Mathoura to just a handful of scoring chances while providing plenty of drive and rebound from defensive 50.

It was arguably the Demons’ best all-round team performance of the season, with the boys running out convincing and well-deserved winners.

Final score: Mathoura 2.2 (14) def by Jerilderie 16.8 (104).

Best: Blake Davidson, Logan Eldridge, Evan Lawton, Cooper Gurciullo, James Winn, and Tony Gurciullo.

Fourths

Jerilderie hit the road on a cold, frosty morning for their second-last game of the season against Mathoura.

The Demons started with clean ball movement, strong pressure and plenty of teamwork. It was fantastic to see every player getting their hands on the footy, and with a real focus on sharing the ball, the team finished with 11 different goal kickers.

A special mention to the six players who volunteered to play for the opposition throughout the day.

Their sportsmanship was outstanding and played a big part in helping Mathoura get on the scoreboard. It was a terrific example of what junior football is all about.

It was a brilliant team performance and a well-deserved win after what has been a challenging season for the fourths, who will be aiming to finish the season on a high with another strong effort against Tocumwal this week.

Final score: Mathoura 1.1 (7) def by Jerilderie 20.15 (135)

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Monday, 8th August 2033

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