Trey Doric avoids this tackle in the Pigeons Under 16 game.
Under 16s
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Rd 4 vs Wodonga
Yarrawonga 9.2 56 def by Wodonga Bulldogs 9.15 69
Top of the table Wodonga, travelled to Yarrawonga to take on the undefeated young Pigeons on the weekend.
Wodonga had been dominating the first 3 rounds, and the Under 16s knew they were up for a tough clash. A tough clash it turned out to be.
The young pigeons hit the scoreboard in the first 30 secs with a goal to Harry Wren.
The midfield led the way in the first quarter, and the defence kept the Wodonga side goalless. 3 goals to zip at quarter time. 3 goals to each side in the 2nd quarter saw Yarra lead by 2 goals at half time.
The wet, slippery conditions meant the Under 16s had to be straight and strong at the footy against their bigger, more fancied opponents.
The players didn’t disappoint. They were fearless and kept their cool to take a 3-point lead into three quarter time.
Goals to Sam Cummins and Mac Hargreaves early in the last, saw the Pigeons lead Wodonga by 6 points with five minutes to go.
The upset wasn’t to be, as Wodonga took risks and kicked the last 3 goals.
A tremendous and proud team effort from the young Yarrawonga pigeons.
Next week, they take on another tough opponent in Wodonga Raiders.
Last week the Under 16s Pigeons took on Corowa in Rd 3 of AWJFL.
At home for the first time this year, the players were looking to continue their good form with another win early in the season.
Both sides were evenly matched, and the game evolved like that. With more accurate kicking, the Yarra team led at quarter time.
In the second quarter, Corowa responded with 4 goals to zero. Their focus on the footy and skills stood out as the Yarra Under 16s went away from their usual disciplined game style.
After refocusing at half time, the players responded with a 3 goal to 2 goal third quarter and some quality football being played.
The Yarra 16s went into 3/4 time, 7 points down but back in the game. Some positional changes, a dominant midfield and a backline growing in confidence saw the Yarra team kick 6 goals to Corowa's zero in the last to run out winners by 27 points.
Yarrawonga 6.2 38 def by Wodonga Bulldogs 15.15 105
The Yarrawonga Pigeons showed admirable mental toughness and resilience despite going down to the Wodonga Bulldogs in a hard-fought contest on Sunday.
While the Bulldogs ultimately had too much polish and firepower, the Pigeons never dropped their heads and continued to compete strongly until the final siren.
Michael Lazzio snaps for goal in the under 14s on Sunday.
Photo by
L.GARBUTT
After an impressive start, Yarrawonga kept the pressure around the contest, working hard to limit Wodonga’s run and refusing to let the margin blow out.
Their effort at ground level and willingness to chase and tackle highlighted a side committed to its game plan, even when momentum was against them.
The young Pigeons can take plenty of positives from their performance. Their mental toughness, effort, and team-first attitude were evident throughout the match and will hold them in good stead as they continue to build through the season.
Best: Charlie Bourke, Oscar Leary, Finnin George, Charlie Carlyle, Elliot Tresize, Darby Bigger.
Under 12s
Yarrawonga 6.6 42 def Wodonga Bulldogs 6.2 38
The Yarra Under 12s produced their best performance of the season with an impressive victory over ladder leaders Wodonga Bulldogs, showcasing teamwork and determination.
Too quick! Brayden Nish sends the ball forward in the Under 12s.
Photo by
L.GARBUTT
The Pigeons started strongly, with Lucas Rudd kicking two first-quarter goals and providing a key target up forward.
Maddox Oughton was relentless with his tackling throughout the match, while Jack Hawking showed composure and skill in the backline.
Taj Einsporn stood tall in defence, holding firm despite repeated attacking efforts from the Bulldogs.
Marley, Nic, Charlie and Lewy worked hard all game, providing run and drive to move the ball forward.
Brayden Nish was classy with ball in hand and added to the scoreboard, as did Bobby Best who took the opposition on and was rewarded with an exciting major.
Darcy O’Dwyer and George Watson were effective up forward, competing strongly and keeping the Bulldogs’ defence under pressure.
With all 24 players contributing, it was a terrific team performance and a great win for the young Pigeons.
Goals: Lucas Rudd 3, Marley Bigger 1, Bobby Best 1, Brayden Nish 1
Best: Nic Liddell, Marley Bigger, Maddox Oughton, Jack Hawking, Lucas Rudd
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