The Deniliquin Rovers reserves have won their way into a Picola League preliminary final.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
After going down to Katandra by eight points during the home-and-away season — and with the memory still fresh of Katandra ending their campaign in last year’s semi finals — the captains’ message for Sunday’s qualifying final was simple: win.
And win they did, in a dominant display built on an even team effort across the ground.
The opening quarter was played at true finals' intensity, with both sides relentless in their attack on the ball.
The Rovers set the tone early, their hard running and pressure earning them a two-goal lead at the first break.
Coach Matt Horne praised the group’s intensity, but demanded more.
Up forward, Tristan Fitzsimmons was unstoppable, finishing with five goals and a spot among the best, while Jack Pekin also proved a constant threat.
Scott Howard was his ever-reliable self, with Bailey Caruso, Damian Hope and Hayden Gardiner dazzling the crowd with flashes of brilliance.
In the middle, John Allitt gave his teammates first use of the ball, while Bobby Hall was simply on fire.
Aden Bermingham’s tireless work rate and impact around contests earned him a place in the best, alongside Taj Payne and Connor Didcock, whose second and third efforts set the standard in defence and helped control play.
The backline was once again ruthless, denying their opponents at every turn.
Dylan Mills consistently cleared the danger, while Sam Richardson crashed through packs with authority.
The boys will now hit the track hard over the coming weeks as they await this weekend’s results to see who they’ll meet in the preliminary final.
Final score: Deni Rovers 15.9 (99) def Katandra 3.2 (20).
Goals: Tristan Fitzsimmons 5, Scott Howard 3, Bailey Caruso 2, Damian Hope 2, Hayden Gardiner, Jack Pekin, Harry Turner.
Best players: Bobby Hall, Aden Bermingham, Jack Pekin, Tristan Fitzsimmons, Taj Payne, Connor Didcock.
Contributed content