UPDATE: The Wangaratta Rovers showcased their dominance in the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League by defeating Wangaratta with an impressive 34-point victory on Sunday, April 16, 2023. In front of a lively crowd of over 2,000 fans, the Rovers proved they are the team to beat this season.
The match took a thrilling turn early in the second term when the underdog Pies jumped to a 13-point lead. However, the Rovers quickly regained control, finishing the game with a score of 13.11 (89) to 8.7 (55). Coach Sam Murray emphasized the importance of their performance, stating, “After quarter-time we played a lot better brand… Our pressure and clearance game was what we wanted.”
Key players stepped up for the Rovers, with Charlie Thompson netting three goals and Brodie Filo leading the game in possessions. The team’s defensive strategies, led by Kieren Parnell, and the ruck work of Ed Dayman, were crucial in securing this victory. Murray noted, “If your role is to be a ball winner and generate for us, you need to do that.”
This win marks the Rovers’ third consecutive victory, positioning them strongly for the minor premiership. The Pies had previously upset the Rovers by 12 points in the season opener on April 5, but the Rovers flexed their strength in this latest matchup. Pies’ coach Jason Heatley acknowledged the Rovers’ depth and teamwork, saying, “They flexed and that’s the connection piece they’ve got over the other sides.”
In a continuation of emotional moments, Wangaratta’s Daniel Sharrock made his highly anticipated return after a lengthy 464 days recovering from a knee reconstruction, while co-captain Michael Bordignon celebrated his 200th game. The Rovers kicked off the match with a goal within seconds from Will Christie. Despite the Rovers’ early efforts, the Pies managed to hold a slight lead at the first break.
As the game progressed, the Rovers took command, with a critical stretch of four goals in just six minutes of the second term. The game’s intensity ramped up with injuries affecting both teams; Aidan Tilley was assisted off the field due to a foot injury, while Cam Barrett also faced a knee injury.
With three games remaining in the second half of the split round, the Rovers sit at the top of the ladder with 44 points, followed by Lavington at 40 and Wangaratta at 36. As the league approaches the finals, eyes will be on the Rovers to see if they can maintain their winning streak and secure the minor premiership.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!
