It was low scoring from the opening bounce, with Rams finding it difficult to move the ball cleanly. Scores were even at half time, 14 points each.
At the main break, the boys were given a much-needed rev-up, and the response was immediate with a lift in intensity and more effective ball movement allowing us to hit the scoreboard while keeping Numurkah scoreless.
In the final term, despite creating several opportunities, our inability to convert ultimately proved costly and the scores were level on the final siren.
Final score: Deni Rams 3.6 (24) drew Numurkah 3.6 (24).
Goals: Angus Henderson 2, Logan Elphick.
Awards: Rory Smith, Bentley Hardman, Oliver Ives, Matt Pitt, Gus Burge.
Fourths
The under-14s entered the match refreshed following a break the previous round.
During the pre-game warm up, the young Rams were asked to put the hard work they had invested at training into practice and were encouraged to bring that same focus and intensity to game day.
The boys responded superbly, opening the first half with blistering pace, strong teamwork, and excellent linking play from the midfield into the forward line.
Clean ball movement, disciplined positioning, and solid marking across the ground allowed the Rams to control possession and build sustained forward pressure.
Holding a 68-point lead heading into the third quarter, the intensity dropped and play became untidy.
At the final break, they were reminded that games are won through consistency across all four quarters, noting that the drive, communication, and work rate displayed earlier had slipped. The message resonated.
The Rams returned for the final term with renewed energy, sharper teamwork, strong defensive marking, and effective linking play once again.
Finishing the match as they had begun, the boys closed out the game in impressive fashion to secure a convincing win.
Final score: Deni Rams 17.16 (118) def Numurkah 1.1 (7).
Goals: Jaxon Rothe 6, Lachie Jeffrey 4, Lachie Tritton 3, Angus Henderson, Henry Pisasale, Angus Munro, Gus Burge.
Awards: Rocky Sztejman, Lachie Jeffrey, Henry Pisasale, Charlie Murray, Angus Munro.
Goulburn Murray Junior League
Under-12s
Deniliquin Rams delivered an outstanding performance to defeat Lockington Bamawm United Cats by 97 to 0 in their Friday night clash.
The Rams controlled the game from the opening bounce, moving the ball with confidence and creating scoring opportunities across all four quarters.
Their forward line proved highly effective, converting chances into a dominant scoreline.
Highlight of the match included a great goal from Leroy Fisicaro and a birthday haul from Nate Fitzpatrick, while Ned Campbell impressed with his work all over the ground.
Final score: Deni Rams 15.7 (97) def Lockington 0.0 (0).
Goals: Nate Fitzpatrick 6, Charlie Eastman 4, Harrison Leetham 2, Leroy Fisicaro, Jake Woolston, N Runje.
Awards: N Runje, Ned Campbell, Charlie Eastman, Cooper Farley.
Under-10s
The Deni Rams hit the road for their first away game of the season, taking on the Tongala Blues in warm and perfect conditions.
The Rams came out strong, showing great energy and teamwork right from the first bounce.
Leading the way in the ruck and through the midfield was young gun Caleb Farley, who worked tirelessly to give his teammates first use of the ball.
Will Hussey and George Smith were impressive, showing noticeable improvement this week with strong defensive pressure and some clever ball movement through the middle.
The final quarter brought a highlight moment when Beckham Morris took a terrific mark up forward and calmly slotted it through for a goal, a well-earned reward for the team’s hard work throughout the match.
Final score: Not scored.
Goals: Levi Robson 7, Luca Sztejman 3, Jax Hall 3, Asher Parsons 2, George Pisasale 2, Beckham Morris, Bailey Cabral, William Eastman, Mason Elphick, Brock McComb.
Awards: Cooper Farley, Beckham Morris, Will Hussey, George Smith.