Sport

RSL Diggers triumph over Rich River, eye finals success

By Contributed

Feb 17, 2026

Craig Taylor, Chris Frampton, Neville Austin and Peter Thommers.

RSL Diggers had a convincing win over a strong Rich River in round 15 of Campaspe bowls on Saturday.

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The match started early at the request of Rich River, who brought their best but RSL were up for the challenge, grateful for the stacked teams that would give them practice for the upcoming finals.

On the ditch rink, Niels Hilton’s team of Jake Glenn, John Wilson and Tony King drew region secretary Barry Brown’s team with Brown promising to test the Diggers.

At the fifth end RSL were up 6-3 and added just two singles to the visitors’ four by the eighth end. Rich River changed gear and were up 20-9 by the 15th end.

The Diggers suddenly finding their mojo and clawed their way back adding 11 shots to their tally to get a 20-20 draw with a fantastic comeback.

Neighbouring rink with Craig Taylor at the helm were on top all game having a good start, up 6-1 after five ends, then 9-6 after 10 ends.

Chris Frampton, Mally Austin and Peter Thommers assisted Taylor and after 15 ends the card read 14-9. The Diggers were struggling to get a good break but maintained their lead with both teams adding four shots each. Final score was 18-13.

Rod Reid’s team of Jo Chick, Archie Webster and Ron Marchetti had a brilliant day with a great start of 12-1 after six ends.

After the 16th end RSL were 24-8 after dropping a three, and although Rich River fought back, the RSL rink held on to win 28-18.

With two wins and a draw, and overall scores of 66-51 the Diggers received 15 points and were thrilled with their effort, rising to the challenge playing three strong Rich River teams.

A scrumptious lunch of sandwiches provided by RSL Diggers was enjoyed by all after the game.

Secretary of the BCG Region Barry Brown congratulated the Diggers on their success on the greens and acknowledged the hard work from all members to keep the club going after a threatened folding pre-season.

He commented particularly on the positive vibe on and off the greens and the welcoming "family club” that is blossoming, and wished the Diggers every success for their finals campaign, and for the future.

At the end of the home and away games for the season, RSL are placed fourth on the Division 4 ladder, having nine wins for the season.

On Saturday, the RSL Diggers will travel to Echuca to play Echuca in the first semi final.

Go Diggers!