Myrtleford: 6.3, 10.5, 12.7, 16.9: 105
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Yarrawonga: 1.0, 2.2, 3.4, 6.4: 40
Goals: Myrtleford: R. Sharp 4, R. Smith 3, K. Agosta 2, T. Cossor 2, J. East 2, S. Curtis, R. Grant, L. Murphy-Dale.
Yarrawonga: B. Kennedy 5, N. Fothergill.
Best: Myrtleford: R. Smith, M. Tenardi, D. Batey, T. Cossor, J. East, K. Agosta.
Yarrawonga: H. Wheeler, B. Kennedy, R. Bruce, N. Fothergill, Z. Fraser, C. Wilson.
Pigeons Suffer Tough Loss to Myrtleford
Yarrawonga’s Senior side made the trip to Myrtleford on Saturday but were left to rue a sluggish start as the Saints stormed out of the gates with six unanswered goals to set up a commanding early lead.
From the first bounce, Myrtleford had their tails up and made the most of their dominance around the contest. Their twin ruck setup gave them a clear edge in the stoppages, repeatedly feeding their on-ballers who drove the ball forward with purpose and precision.
The scoreboard pressure mounted quickly, and the Pigeons found themselves on the back foot.
Yarrawonga’s first spark came late in the opening term through Nick Fothergill, who steadied the ship with a brilliant long-range goal against the tide.
The classy finish gave the Pigeons a much-needed lift heading into quarter time.
The Saints continued to control large patches of the second quarter, extending their lead, but Yarrawonga began to respond physically.
The Pigeons improved their contest work and started to win more of the hard ball.
Ben Kennedy provided a focal point up forward and looked dangerous every time the ball came his way, keeping Yarrawonga in the contest with his presence and smarts inside 50.
Harry Wheeler set the tone with his relentless energy and effort, refusing to be outworked despite the scoreboard pressure.
His leadership was evident all afternoon, particularly as the undermanned Pigeons dug in after half-time to make the game more of an arm wrestle.
Despite being well down on personnel, Yarrawonga refused to throw in the towel and showed plenty of heart in the second half.
The group’s resilience was again tested late, with another cruel blow as Mitch Parker suffered a collarbone injury in the dying stages, adding to an already significant injury toll.
Yarrawonga will now look to regroup and reassess as they prepare for their next clash against the Wodonga Bulldogs at the JC Lowe oval following this week's bye.
The Pigeons will be hopeful of welcoming back some troops and regaining momentum in the back end of the season.
Reserves
Myrtleford 21.16: 142 def Yarrawonga 5.2: 32
Goals: B. Symes 2, B. Brear, S. Lawrence, B. McCabe.
Best: T. Muldoon, B. Symes, W. Lutula, T. Dowling, D. Mullins, B. McCabe.
The Yarrawonga Reserves travelled to Myrtleford on Saturday with belief, hopeful of turning recent close contests into a breakthrough win.
But a sluggish start proved costly, as Myrtleford jumped out early and took control.
Despite the early blow, the undermanned Pigeons dug in and showed the fight that’s defined their season, short on numbers but never short on heart.
Veteran Matt Grinter, fresh from Ibiza, added much-needed leadership and voice, while Brandon Symes strengthened the side in a key position role.
Todd Muldoon continued his standout season, once again leading by example with effort and physicality around the contest.
Stepping up from the Thirds, Seth Lawrence brought his trademark energy and enthusiasm, to give the side a real lift.
The highlight came when Buzz Brear slotted a goal after a selfless pass from Mus O’Dwyer.
The promising pair continue to grow in confidence and will be ones to watch in 2026 after a strong pre-season.
Also lending his support was the ever-reliable Nick Dykes, once again donning the hoops and showing his commitment to the club.
While Myrtleford controlled much of the day, the Pigeons fought it out to the final siren—true to form.
With a few more players returning, a well-earned win feels just around the corner.
Thirds
Myrtleford: 2.2: 14, 3.2, 5.2, 7.2: 44
Yarrawonga: 1.2, 2.4, 3.8, 7.12: 54
Goals: S. Lawrence 3, A. Jaques 2, S. Trembath.
Best: A. Jaques, S. Lawrence, S. Trembath, S. Bigger, R. Bone, J. Woodhead.
Pigeons Loft
Saturday’s clash with Myrtleford kicked off in foggy, chilly conditions, but by lunchtime the skies had cleared, and the weather turned mild, for a full day of football and netball action.
In the netball, the Pigeons had a strong showing across the courts.
A, B and the Under 17s all came away with solid wins, continuing their consistent form and showing great teamwork and resilience.
B Grade are sitting nicely in top position, while A Grade have pushed back into third.
On the football field, the Under 18s put in a fantastic performance to claim a well-deserved win. Unfortunately, the Reserves and Seniors were unable to get the job done. With the Seniors still battling a heavy injury toll (and another one added to the list), the side fought hard but ultimately couldn’t overcome a strong Myrtleford outfit.
The day also marked the contest for the Mental Health Shield, an important initiative between the two clubs.
After a competitive day across all matches, the overall club tally ended in a four-all draw, meaning Myrtleford retains the shield for another year.
The bus trip home was a lot of fun for the social pigeons.
Mental Health Luncheon – August 9
YFNC are proud to announce their upcoming Mental Health Luncheon, to be held during the home game against North Albury.
Guest speaker: Tom Boyd.
Tom’s story is compelling, and his insights into mental health in elite sport are essential listening for anyone involved in club life.
Tickets will be in high demand, keep an eye on the club’s socials for details.
Round 14 - July 26 – Home vs Wodonga
Next weekend after the bye, YFNC host Wodonga.
Netball: The C grade game will be a do or die game to stay in the top five.
Football: The 2pm seniors clash should a good one to watch, with Wodonga just sitting one above in both the Seniors and Reserves.
Junior netball: As always, expect a great contest from the next generation of stars.
Thank you to Major Partners: Club Mulwala, Kennedy Builders, Belmores, BETR, RuralCo, The Play Project, Yarrawonga Holiday Park, Yarrawonga Hotel, and BG Finance — the club couldn’t do it without you.
Thursday night teas
Join YFNC every Thursday for a warm meal, team announcements, and all the latest club news.
Note: During bye rounds, check socials for updates.
2025 awards sponsors
A huge thank you to Yarrawonga Hotel, Wig Chop, Club Mulwala, Linen House, Rich Glen, Free As A Bird, Mint Boutique, Miss Dolly, Jacyees, Intersport Wingates and One Zach for your ongoing support.
Yarrawonga Chronicle