Reserves
The sun was shining at Katunga on Saturday, as the seconds were itching to begin their 2026 finals campaign against minor premiers Katandra.
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It was a hard-fought opening quarter, with plenty of pressure applied by both sides. Rovers hit the scoreboard first through Harry Mcilwain, but Katandra responded to take a one-goal lead into the first break.
Rovers were made to work hard in the second quarter against a fit and well-structured Katandra outfit, with both sides adding two goals to their respective tallies.
The pace of the game didn’t slow in the third term, with the minor premiers kicking five goals while restricting Rovers to just one.
Dylan Mills worked tirelessly in defence all day and was named best on ground, alongside fellow backman Nick Stubbings, who also battled hard down back.
Andrew Simpson, Andrew May and Brad Taylor were solid through the midfield, while Mcilwain provided a strong target up forward, with all named among the best.
Coach Matt Horne’s post-game address could have been likened to those delivered by the likes of Pagan, Matthews or Malthouse.
We expect the boys will take plenty from it and have a big week ahead as they prepare for Saturday’s final.
Final score: Deni Rovers 5.4 (34) def by Katandra 11.9 (75).
Goals: Harry Mcilwain 2, Bailey Caruso, Andrew May.
Best: Dylan Mills, Andrew Simpson, Brad Taylor, Nick Stubbings, Andrew May, Harry Mcilwain.
Thirds
After a solid year that saw the Rovers lock up fourth position on the ladder and secure a second chance, the boys travelled to Katunga to take on top-of-the-ladder Barooga in the qualifying final.
The game started with an even contest, with Barooga coming out strongly.
It took the young Rovers boys the first quarter to adjust to the increased intensity that comes with finals football.
Barooga took control early, leading 2.0 to 0.0 at quarter time.
The Rovers rallied in the second and third quarters, winning both terms by the narrowest of margins.
Their hard work kept them within striking distance, heading into the final quarter just eight points behind.
Unfortunately, the Rovers were unable to maintain the intensity in the final term, with Barooga running out winners.
Despite the result, the finals experience will be invaluable for such a young Rovers side.
The boys will take plenty of learnings from the game and have another opportunity next week when they face Strathmerton at Berrigan.
Final score: Deni Rovers 8.7 (55) def by Barooga 11.8 (74).
Goals: Dannon Leetham 4, Charlie Rennie, Isaac Behsman, Lincoln Meharry, Ryan Squires.
Best: Reece King, Dannon Leetham, Haydn Sampson, Archer Moodie, Ryan Squires, Stuart Benger.
Fourths
Third-placed Rovers took on second-placed Rennie in the qualifying final on Sunday, with a spot in the preliminary final on the line.
Played in heavy fog, it was a tight contest from the outset, with Rovers holding a narrow lead at the main break.
Celebrating his 50th game of fourths football, Sam Strong was instrumental, winning plenty of clearances and helping drive the ball into the forward 50.
Taj McCully and Carter Sartore were also playing well and contributing strongly around the ground.
Rovers lifted in the third quarter, with Lucas Braybon standing up when it mattered and kicking two important goals.
Down back, Michael Benger, Angus Knuckey, Henry Campion and Mannix Taylor were outstanding, repeatedly repelling Rennie's forward entries.
Jett Boyer, Cormick Hardman, Jed Fitzmaurice and Cal Leiper worked hard around the ground, while Harry Rennie had a great game on the wing.
At full-time, the scores were locked, sending the game into extra time with two five-minute quarters required to decide the winner.
Lucas Braybon once again stepped up when his team needed him most, kicking his third goal to put Rovers in front.
From there, the boys held their nerve to secure a fantastic nine-point victory.
In a tough, hard-fought game, everyone played their part and stood up when it mattered, producing some great team football to earn Rovers a place in the Preliminary Final.
Final score: Deni Rovers 4.4 (28) def Rennie 2.7 (19).
Goals: Callan Leiper 6, Harry Rennie 5, Carter Sartore 4, Taj McCully 3, Sam Strong 2, Michael Benger.
Best: Cormick Hardman, Lucas Braybon.