Sport

Rovers juniors battle through the fog

By Contributed

Jun 20, 2025

Haydn Sampson launches a big kick through the fog. Photo by Mel Sampson

Thirds

What was always going to be a challenging game for the young Roos began in foggy conditions at Tocumwal.

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Early on, we managed to keep the opposition goalless, but could only register one major ourselves.

The second quarter followed a similar pattern, with the Rovers’ midfield group battling hard for control and managing to add another two goals.

Having restricted Tocumwal to just one goal for the half, we looked to be the better side heading into the main break.

Unfortunately, Tocumwal’s class came through in the third quarter, capitalising as we struggled to execute some of the basics under pressure.

Ben Hayes was a standout across half-back and through the middle, while Dannon Leetham again impressed with his work in the ruck.

Callan Glenn continues to improve each week.

Final score: Deniliquin Rovers 3.3 (21) def by Tocumwal 9.11 (65).

Goals: Spencer Cowley 2, Dannon Leetham.

Best players: Ben Hayes, Dannon Leetham, Ethan Connolly, Callan Glenn, Jesse Jervis, Spencer Cowley.

Awards: Deni Driver Training - Ben Hayes, Fanmac Ag - Xander Strong, Jake Harvey, Deni Clothing Co - Callan Glenn, McDonalds - Sam Conallin, Smoko Shak - Nick Fanning, Rovers - Reagan Macdonald, Spencer Cowley.

Fourths

The fourths took on Tocumwal in their round 11 clash, with heavy fog making conditions difficult for both players and spectators.

The Rovers started well and led at quarter time, with strong contributions from Taj McCully, Jed Fitzmaurice and Michael Benger.

Benger kicked the Rovers’ only goal in the second quarter.

After half-time, Tocumwal began to take control, with their bigger-bodied players dominating the clearances and general play.

Jett Boyer, Carter Sartore and Reece King battled bravely in defence, but Tocumwal proved too strong in the end, running out 43-point winners.

It was a tough day for the young Rovers, who now have plenty of work to do in the remaining rounds to push for a spot in the final eight.

Final score: Deniliquin Rovers 7.9 (51) def by Tocumwal 1.2 (8).

Goals: Michael Benger.

Best players: Taj McCully, Jed Fitzmaurice, Michael Benger, Jett Boyer, Carter Sartore, Ryan Bulmer.

Awards: Wired Entertainment - Jett Boyer, Riverside Bookkeeping Service - Jed Fitzmaurice, McDonald’s - Mikey Benger, Carter Sartore, Beau Jervis, Mannix Taylor, Rovers - Reece King, Taj McCully.

Fifths

It was a great game played in fantastic spirit, with excellent sportsmanship shown by both sides.

Plenty of hard work at training is starting to show, with strong performances across the ground.

Several players who usually sit back pushed forward to hit the scoreboard, with plenty of goals kicked and some standout efforts on display.

A great all-round team performance — well done, boys!

Awards: Wired Entertainment - Charlie Druitt, McDonald’s - Lincoln Sartore, Max Woolston, Paddy Howard, Levi Norris, Tate Parlato, Carter Parsons, Arley Bulmer, Lick It Quick - William Reid, Enzo Craig.