SENIOR XVIII
In a thrilling contest, the Euroa Magpies were narrowly pipped at the post by second placed Rochester at Memorial Oval on Saturday.
Young gun Jack Walters debuted in the senior team for Euroa and impressed, slotting a goal following a sharp handball from captain Jett Trotter.
A goalless first half proved to be the Achilles’ heel for the senior Magpies, despite some determined efforts across the afternoon that highlighted the grit and resilience of the young side.
Assistant coaches Neale Poole and Chris Burke took charge with senior coach David Gleeson unavailable.
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Henry James was also a welcome return to the team.
Euroa surged in the second half, kicking seven goals to Rochester’s three.
Despite the cool weather, the atmosphere heated up on and off the field.
Spirited encouragement from ‘Hot Dog Hill’ evoked many fond memories for local supporters.
Jayden Gleeson was dynamic once again, while Jack McKernan’s efforts in the ruck drew praise.
Mitchell Walters played a key role in shutting down one of Rochester’s key playmakers with precision.
The match came down to the final moments, with a late goal putting Euroa within one straight kick.
Rochester held firm to secure the win, but those in attendance were heartened by the determination and skill shown by the young Euroa side - promising signs for the rest of the season.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 7.13.55 defeated by Rochester 8.10.58
Best players: Jayden Gleeson, Jack McKernan, Mitchell Walters, Jake Penman, Ryan Hill
Goal kickers: Jayden Gleeson (two), Jacob Gleeson (one), Will Creevey (one), Declan Redfern (one), Ollie Day (one), Jack Walters (one)
RESERVE XVIII
By TONY BRODIE
The reserves again struggled with numbers, relying on Third XVIII players to help field a team.
Rochester got off to a quick start, consistently moving the ball forward.
Fortunately for Euroa, they failed to fully capitalise, registering two-goals-eight in the first quarter when it could easily have been eight goals.
Rochester led by 20 points at the first break.
James Henry led from the front, lifting team morale by snapping a goal from a stoppage.
Mitch Penman worked tirelessly to hold the defence together, while Zac Clarke was competitive in an on-ball role.
Despite their efforts, Rochester extended the margin to 29 points at half time.
In the third term, the lead ballooned.
Henry, playing through pain, contested in the ruck, and Penman - now playing forward - took a strong mark and had a shot on goal, showing great commitment by moving from the backline to the forwards.
Rochester’s third quarter dominance saw them take a 59 point lead.
However, Euroa fought back to score three goals in the final quarter, with Jye Bjorksten leading by example with two goals.
While the result went Rochester’s way, there were encouraging signs from the Reserves, especially given the inclusion of several thirds players.
The group is showing signs of improvement, and with stronger numbers, confidence is sure to grow.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 4.5.29 defeated by Rochester 15.8.108
Goal kickers: Jye Bjorksten (two), Nic Mitchell (one), James Henry (one)
THIRD XVIII
By CATH COLLETT
In a key clash with finals implications, Euroa entered the match four points behind Rochester on the ladder and eager for a win.
Rochester opened strongly, slotting the first goal within the opening minute and Euroa responded with relentless pressure, refusing to allow the opposition to dictate terms.
The Magpies consistently forced the ball to ground, disrupting Rochester’s clean marking and flow, resulting in most of the play staying in Euroa’s forward half as they held onto a narrow lead at quarter time.
The second quarter remained tight, with Euroa edging further ahead to lead by a goal at the main break.
Rochester spent much of the third term in attack but could only manage two behinds due to Euroa’s disciplined defence.
The quarter ended with Euroa leading by 11 points.
In the final term, Rochester again pressed hard, but Euroa’s pressure continued to frustrate their scoring opportunities.
Despite kicking five behinds and adding a late goal, Rochester couldn’t bridge the gap and Euroa held on.
Every Euroa player contributed with strong tackling and repeat stoppages, and the team’s defensive structure and pressure were critical in nullifying Rochester’s strengths.
Euroa will play Seymour next week.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 6.6.42 defeated Rochester 5.6.36
Goal kickers: Ryan Sproles (four), Casey Collett (one), Lucas McLure (one)
Best players: Callan Howell, Ryan Sproles, Harrison Mills, Baxter Fraser, Joel Hamill
