Thirds
Deniliquin Rovers’ Thirds proved too strong for Katunga on the road, running out 8.10 (58) to 4.2 (26) winners on Saturday.
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The Rovers took control early, holding Katunga scoreless in the opening term while posting 1.4 (10) of their own. They extended their dominance in the second quarter, piling on three unanswered goals to lead by 26 points at halftime.
Katunga fought back with two goals in the third quarter, but the Rovers’ midfield and forward line continued to create opportunities, stretching the margin to 31 points at the final change. The visitors held their nerve in the last, matching Katunga’s two goals to seal a comfortable 32-point win.
Spencer Cowley was a standout up forward, slotting four goals, while Noah Dunn, Brody Wills, Jesse Jervis and Stuart Benger also hit the scoreboard.
Jervis led the best players with a strong performance on the wing, well supported by Sam Conallin, Cowley, Nick Fanning, Reece King and Dannon Leetham.
The result cements the Rovers’ push towards finals with a convincing four-quarter display.
Final Score: Deniliquin Rovers 8.10-58 def Katunga 4.2-26
Goal Kickers: Spencer Cowley 4, Noah Dunn, Brody Wills, Jesse Jervis, Stuart Benger.
Best Players: Jesse Jervis, Sam Conallin, Spencer Cowley, Nick Fanning, Reece King, Dannon Leetham.
Awards: Sam Conallin, Spencer Cowley, Dannon Leetham, Brody Wills, Noah Dunn, Taj Payne, Reece King, Jesse Jervis.
Fourths
In Round 15, the fifth-placed Rovers took on twelfth-placed Katunga in what began as a tough and contested clash. The opening quarter was evenly matched, with Katunga throwing everything at the young Roos.
Ryan Bulmer was outstanding, setting the tone alongside Haydn Sampson, while Jed O’Donnell controlled centre half-forward and Callan Leiper proved dangerous in the forward pocket. Cormick Hardman, Mikey Benger, Reece King and Taj McCully were influential across the ground as the Rovers surged to a 42-point halftime lead.
The second half saw the Roos stamp their authority on the contest. First-gamer Ryan Squires impressed on his wing, booting two goals, while Leiper continued his dominance up forward, finishing with five majors. McCully shifted to full forward in the final term and added three more goals to the tally.
Down back, the Rovers’ defensive unit was rock-solid, restricting the Swans to just a single point for the entire match. It was a strong, all-round team performance as the Roos powered home to a commanding 97-point victory.
Final Score: Deniliquin Rovers 14.14-98 def Katunga 0.1-1
Goal Kickers: Callan Leiper 5, Taj McCully 3, Cormick Hardman 2, Ryan Squires 2, Jed Fitzmaurice, Ged. O’Donnell
Best Players: Ryan Bulmer, Ryan Squires, Haydn Sampson, Callan Leiper, Ged O’Donnell, Taj McCully.
Awards: Callan Leiper, Ryan Squires, Mannix Taylor, Lennix Leetham, Braxton Leetham, Ged O’Donnell, Ryan Bulmer, Cormick Hardman.
Fifths
The Deniliquin Rovers Fifths took to the field in Katunga on Saturday, focusing on having fun and building their skills. The young Roos tried hard all game, continuing to develop their teamwork and confidence as they enjoy learning the game.
Not scored.
Awards: Charlie Druitt, Lincoln Sartore, Max Woolston, Henry Braybon, Paddy Howard, Levi Norris, Tate Parlato, Max Horton, Arley Bulmer.
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