Echuca overpowers Euroa after half time lead

SENIOR XVIII After a long road trip, the Euroa senior side arrived at Victoria Park, Echuca, with high hopes of taking it up to the powerhouse of the Goulburn Valley League in recent years. Returning to the side for his first game in 2025 was Darby Wilson. His comeback from a long term knee injury was a promising sign for coach Dave Gleeson and his assistants. Jack McKernan also returned from a short break and his key position presence was vital. He was joined by Zac Gleeson, who came back into the team after one week out nursing a knee injury. Making their senior debut were Ollie Day and Noah Campbell. Ollie who is the son of Andrew and grandson of Ray and Dawn, has again returned to Australia from his native England and, in a remarkable rise in Australian Rules football, was rewarded with his first senior match for the club after playing fewer than a dozen games. Noah Campbell, who has been travelling over the hill from Alexandra for a number of years, impressed in the under 18s and earned his opportunity to debut in the late game, a fantastic effort from a talented young player. Euroa began well. Their attack on the contest, ability to win the ball and use it effectively, resulted in a four goal lead at the main break. Jayden Gleeson opened the game in excellent form, showing great agility in the midfield. Cohen Paul continued his strong form that continues to draw attention from Magpie supporters and beyond. The third quarter, however, saw Echuca dominate all over the ground, piling on nine goals and establishing a commanding lead. The Euroa coaching staff and players regrouped, vowing to increase their work rate and halt the Bombers’ momentum. The final term was more evenly contested, with Euroa responding strongly. Ryan and Lachlan Hill were relentless, while Tom Burke’s class stood out. The loss of Jacob Gleeson (hamstring) in the second half was a significant blow. Jake Penman continued to play a selfless role in the ruck despite conceding height to his opponents. Next week sees another away clash against the top tier Shepparton Bears. Preparation is already underway, with a win sure to lift spirits ahead of the club’s mid-season ball. SCOREBOARD: Echuca 17.6.108 defeated Euroa 9.10.64 Best players: Cohen Paul, Jayden Gleeson, Ryan Hill, Tom Burke, Jake Penman. Goal kickers: Lachlan Hill (two), Jett Trotter (one), Jayden Gleeson (one), Jacob Gleeson (one), Zac Gleeson (one), Darby Wilson (one), Jack McKernan (one), Ryan Hill (one). SECOND XVIII By TONY BRODIE Both clubs were under pressure with limited numbers, beginning the match with 16 a side until under 18 players could bolster both teams back up to 18. The addition of Echuca thirds provided a challenge due to their height advantage, helping their side gain control early. The opposition quickly won clearances and moved the ball into their forward line, converting with strong marking and accurate kicking. Despite the pressure, Euroa’s team continued to fight. Coaches Declan Redfern and James Henry led from the front. Declan was prolific with the ball, while James - restricted by a calf injury - continued to give his best to support the undermanned side. Euroa managed five goals, with team members working hard to improve their skills and support one another. Several players were unavailable due to injury or other commitments, further testing the squad’s depth. There is hope that a few inclusions will strengthen the team for next week’s game against Shepparton Bears. SCOREBOARD: Echuca 17.14.116 defeated Euroa 7.4.46 Best players: Declan Redfern, Jack Walters, Bryce Hogg, Isaiah Trotter, Callan Howell, Dublin Anderson. Goal kickers: Drew Coller (two), Declan Redfern (two), Callan Howell (one), Jack Walters (one), Baxter Fraser (one). THIRD XVIII By KELLEY HOWELL Round 13 saw the boys travel to Echuca to face the Bombers. Riding a five-match winning streak, the team was determined to reverse the result from round two. However, it wasn’t Euroa’s day, with Echuca proving too strong for an undermanned Third XVIII. Echuca came out firing, slotting four unanswered goals in the first quarter. Their persistent forward entries helped extend their lead to 47–7 at the main break. Jack Walters managed Euroa’s first goal. The second half saw Echuca continue creating scoring chances. Despite the scoreboard pressure, Euroa did not give up, and Baxter Fraser kicked a late goal as a reward for continued effort. Although the result was disappointing, the team fought hard and remained competitive across the ground. Attention now turns to the upcoming match against Shepparton Bears. SCOREBOARD: Echuca 15.11.101 defeated Euroa 2.1.13 Goal kickers: Jack Walters (one), Baxter Fraser (one). Best players: Casey Collett, Callan Howell, Campbell Baker, Baxter Fraser, Jack Walters, Drew Coller.

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