The Deniliquin Rovers thirds showcased a dominant performance in their elimination final against Katandra on Saturday at Strathmerton, securing a convincing 11.8 (74) to 5.1 (31) victory.
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The boys started strongly, kicking three goals to nil in the first term and never looked back.
By half-time, the lead had extended to 44-12, with Deni Rovers controlling the midfield and setting the platform for a comprehensive win.
Midfield captains Brody Wills and Ethan Connolly led by example, while Ben Hayes’ run from half-back proved pivotal in keeping Katandra at bay.
Fletcher Campion had a standout day in the ruck, with Dannon Leetham dominating in the air and on the ground.
Lincoln Meharry also impressed with a solid display at centre half-back, shutting down Katandra’s attacking options.
Up forward, Spencer Cowley was unstoppable, finishing with five goals, while Brody Wills contributed two.
Other goal scorers included Noah Dunn, Isaac Behsman, Stuart Benger and Dannon Leetham.
The Rovers now advance to the semi-finals, set for August 30 at Jerilderie, where they will face the winner of this weekend's qualifying final.
The win highlighted a complete team effort, with Deni Rovers dominating every quarter and proving they are a force to be reckoned with in the finals series.
Final score: Deni Rovers 11.8 (74) defeated Katandra 5.1 (31)
Goal kickers: Spencer Cowley 5, Brody Wills 2, Noah Dunn, Isaac Behsman, Stuart Benger, Dannon Leetham
Best players: Ethan Connolly, Ben Hayes, Lincoln Meharry, Brody Wills, Spencer Cowley, Dannon Leetham
Fourths
Deni Rovers faced Strathmerton in the first elimination final at Strathmerton and the boys were pumped, ready to play finals footy.
The match started well, with Lucas Braybon taking some strong contested marks up forward, while Ged O’Donnell impressed at centre half-forward.
In defence, Reece King held his own against a much bigger opponent, providing crucial resistance.
The Rovers kicked three goals in the second quarter, gaining ascendancy through the hard work of Ryan Squires, Ryan Bulmer and Haydn Sampson in the clearances.
At half-time, a 20-point lead put the Rovers in a strong position in what was shaping up to be a low-scoring affair.
However, Strathmerton fought back, closing the gap to a couple of straight kicks.
The Rovers lifted in response, with captains Haydn Sampson and Jobe Unwin standing tall in the final quarter to guide the team to a 12-point victory and progress further into the finals.
The boys will play again in two weeks’ time in the semi-finals at Jerilderie on Saturday, August 30, at 9.15 am.
Final score: Deni Rovers 6.7 (43) defeated Strathmerton 5.1 (31)
Goal kickers: Callan Leiper 2, Lucas Braybon, Jett Boyer, Cormick Hardman, Ryan Bulmer.
Best players: Haydn Sampson, Ryan Squires, Reece King, Ged O’Donnell, Ryan Bulmer, Sam Strong.
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