Eagles’ search for win streak comes up short

By Matthew Kappos

Jul 28, 2024

Echuca United’s 201-game veteran Justin Cantwell directs the troops. Photos: Megan Fisher Photo by Megan Fisher

After scoring a maiden win last weekend, Echuca United was on the hunt for consecutive wins for the first time in 2024.

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The Eagles travelled to Rumbalara Recreation Reserve and were up and about in the first quarter, buoyed by the victory over Cobram seven days ago.

United had a slight edge 3.4 (22) to 3.3 (21) as both sides opened up with three goals.

Jackson Gronow takes a few paces back before kicking. Photo by Megan Fisher

While the Eagles were able to maintain some scoring impetus in the second term, kicking two goals, Rumba pushed out in front after adding five of its own.

Another three for the host put United in a 33-point hole at the final break, after the Eagles were unable to get on the scoreboard in the period.

Echuca United showed resilience in the final quarter, taking it two goals to one, but it was Rumbalara that had done enough to win, 11.8 (74) to 7.5 (47).

Rumbalara’s Levy Tejones looks to evade Echuca United attention. Photo by Megan Fisher

In club game 201, Justin Cantwell led the Eagles with two goals, while Riley Godfrey, Jackson Gronow, Oliver Poole, Bailey Sawyer and Ryan Stobaus also contributed a goal each.

Samuel Goodluck was deemed best on ground for United, while Sam and Brady Simpson, Bodhi Chique, Reece Sidebottom and Poole also performed well.

The Eagles will benefit from a week off in the first half of the Murray League’s split round next weekend, before hosting third-placed Finley on August 10.

United will then close out its season with matches against Numurkah and Congupna.