The thirds footballers pulled off a win again Mulwala in Saturday’s semi-finals, while the fourths went down to Echuca United in their semi-final on Sunday.
Match reports are as follows.
Thirds
It was a close fought start between Deniliquin and Mulwala, with the Rams going into quarter-time down by just a point.
Against the wind, the team were happy with their position at the break.
The arm wrestle continued in the second term, but the boys managed to put on 2.8 to Mulwala’s one goal and Deni headed into half-time with momentum.
After the main break, the boys came out firing. They held Mulwala goalless while adding four of their own, setting up a strong lead heading into the final term.
The Rams continued their great work in the last quarter, adding another four goals to run away with a convincing victory.
The backline was again rock solid, with Mulwala’s entries being sent straight back forward.
Final score: Deni Rams 12.11 (83) def Mulwala 4.5 (29).
Goals: Spencer Cowley 3, Oscar Wren 3, Chase Bartlett, Charlie McCallum, Logan Elphick, Mitchell Grimwood, Oliver Ives, Bentley Hardman.
Fourths
The Rams took on an in-form Echuca United, producing a fantastic team effort and showing plenty of courage and determination against a quality opposition.
The Rams started strongly, trailing by just a point at quarter time, 7-8, before Echuca managed to gain some momentum in the second term.
Despite finding themselves 21 points down at half-time, the Rams refused to give in.
The third quarter was a standout for the Rams. They lifted the intensity right across the ground, winning contests, applying pressure and moving the ball with purpose.
Their hard work was rewarded with a 23 point third quarter turnaround, bringing the margin back to just five points at the final break, 30-35.
It was a brilliant response and showed the character within this group.
Unfortunately, Echuca United finished strongly in the final term to run out 27-point winners, but the scoreboard certainly doesn’t reflect the effort and fight shown by the Rams throughout the contest.
Angus Henderson was outstanding, playing an important role both on the ball and up forward, while Will Crossley produced some amazing tackles at critical stages, lifting the team when they needed it most.
Down back, Henry Pisasale and Gus Burge applied intense pressure and worked tirelessly to keep Echuca’s dangerous forwards under control.
Jaxon Ives also played an important role in the ruck, competing strongly and giving the Rams plenty of opportunities around the ground.
Final score: Deni Rams 5.6 (36) def by Echuca United 9.9 (63).
Goals: Jaxon Rothe, Lachie Tritton, Charlie Murray, Will Crossley.
14°C