UNDER 10s
By RAYAN MOORE
UNDER 10s went on a road trip to take on Rushworth, in a very even contest against some bigger opposition.
The game started well for Euroa, with Tayte Wilson getting plenty of the ball in the midfield.
Assisted by Will Swift and Bailey Nunn, they were able to get first use of the footy.
Latest Stories
Down forward, Lenny Moore was a livewire and put early pressure on Rushworth with two goals for the quarter.
Izzy Limbrick was dominant in the ruck during the second term and brought those around her into the game.
The midfield trio of Roy Burden, Tommy Bickerton and Cody O’Bree took control kicking three goals for the quarter.
Euroa started the second half a bit sluggish, and Rushworth were able to get on top early in the quarter.
In defence, Lucas Mason and Bohdi Cummins showed plenty of fight.
James Jackson was a standout for the quarter, with his second efforts and determination to compete.
Emmett Arrowsmith was popping up everywhere in the final term, diving on any loose ball.
Lewis Riely continued his good form throughout the season with a late goal.
Down back, Jed Enright was really coming into his own, alongside Billy Harper, who was a brick wall at full back, with nothing getting past him.
Euroa has the week off over the King’s Birthday weekend and heads back to the Memorial on Sunday, June 15 to take on Shepp Swans.
UNDER 12s
By JASON WILLIAMSON
ON Friday night, the Euroa Under 12s travelled to Shepparton to face Shepparton Notre Gold, the benchmark team of the competition.
Under the Friday night lights, it was a high-pressure start, and Euroa looked up to the challenge.
The young Magpies began strongly, controlling more of the play and keeping the ball predominantly in their forward half.
Bailey Trotter took a strong contested mark early on and passed to Charlie Hemeter, whose long-range shot just missed the target.
In the final five minutes of the first quarter, Shepparton Notre began to gain momentum.
Their quick ball movement and run and carry style resulted in four quick goals, giving them a 23 point lead at the first break.
The second quarter was a hard-fought contest, but with Shepparton Notre’s players all pushing into their forward half, their forward press kept the ball locked in their attacking zone.
Euroa’s defence, led by Tom Goss, Sater O’Bree, Jasper Dunning, James Macdermid and Henry Williamson, worked tirelessly under pressure.
Ollie Schwartzkopff stood out with his fearless efforts across the back flank, repeatedly contesting and putting his body on the line.
Jaegar Saxon also worked tirelessly across the ground to intercept attacks and put himself into attacking positions.
Despite Euroa’s determined defence, Shepparton Notre added three more goals for the quarter.
The third quarter followed a similar pattern, with Shepparton Notre continuing to implement a forward press and their bigger bodies dominating the midfield and forward line.
Ollie Schwartzkopff continued his outstanding defensive work with intercepts, smothers and relentless pressure, while Ky Townsend also impressed with his determined efforts contesting the ball on the wing.
Jaegar Saxon maintained his presence across the ground, while Selby Bourke and Cooper Harper played important roles.
Selby was consistently getting into the contest and providing numerous clearing possessions, and Cooper effectively shut down a dangerous opponent.
Euroa managed to break through the forward press a few times but could not capitalise on the scoreboard, while Shepparton Notre kicked another four goals.
In the final quarter, the Euroa players were challenged to maintain their intensity, contest hard and support their teammates.
They responded brilliantly, continuing to battle for every possession.
Euroa created a couple of chances up forward but could not quite kick the scoreboard.
Despite appearing to hold Shepparton Notre goalless for most of the quarter, the young Magpies could not hold on, and Shepparton Notre managed three late goals.
While the scoreboard did not reflect the quality of Euroa’s effort and teamwork, the young Magpies made Shepparton Notre earn every possession and goal.
Every player should be proud of their contribution, to their discipline, teamwork and support for one another.
The way the players kept their heads up, continued to put their bodies on the line and fought until the final siren was extremely pleasing to see.
There is a league-wide bye this week, but the Under 12s will travel to Mansfield on Friday night for a friendly match that promises to be a valuable hit-out for both sides.
