MFL | Blues withstand Congupna challenge

By Josh Huntly

Apr 26, 2022

On the boot: Anthony Dennis for Tongala. Photo: Rohan Aldous

Tongala withstood a firm challenge from Congupna in Saturday’s Murray Football League action to keep its winning streak alive.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The Road took honours in a frenetic first half but the Blues held their nerve in the second half to run out 12.14 (86) to 9.9 (63) winners.

The minor premier has now moved to a 4-0 record, but in an ominous statement, Blues coach Jordan Souter indicated the side was not yet playing its best football.

“We did play some good footy in patches,” Souter said.

“We still haven’t played our best yet, we still think it’s coming.

“We’re definitely happy with the result we got yesterday. Congupna gave us a good challenge.

“Even when you’re not playing your best footy and still winning games, that’s probably the most pleasing thing at the moment.”

Tongala’s five-goal-to-two third quarter laid the platform for the Blues’ victory, and despite just three goals being kicked in the final term, it was enough for Tongala’s 17th straight victory.

Club best-and-fairest Nicholas Jamieson ran rampant through the midfield, while Matt Daniel provided a strong option for the Blues going forward.

Congupna spearhead Daniel Campbell booted three goals, while James Boyer worked hard for the Road.

Tongala’s goal-sneaks were also front and centre, with Sam Cipriani and Mackenzie Cowley each bagging three goals.

Congupna’s forward line was well held by Tongala skipper Adam Lovison and Michael Pryde, with Lovison locking down one of the Road’s experienced heads.

Souter said mixing up the chess pieces at half-time helped the Blues’ cause.

“Adam Lovison at half-back did a really good job on (Daniel) Schaper,” Souter said.

“We moved Ryan Nyhuis up to half-forward to give us a bit of class. We also moved Michael Pryde from centre-half forward to centre-half back.

“Matt Daniels just gave us that lead-up option across half-forward. He plays a really good role for us.”

Tongala’s victory keeps it in fourth spot behind the unbeaten Moama, Cobram and Deniliquin.

The Blues are hopeful Brock McLean will return from a hamstring injury for this Saturday’s clash against Numurkah, while Cam Ilett is set to take his place in the squad as well.

Around the league, Mulwala had a 74-point win over Barooga, while Deniliquin ran away with a 50-point win over Rumbalara in former AFL star Eddie Betts’ surprise appearance for Rumba.