Wangaratta Rovers: 4.5, 5.5, 8.9, 14.16: 100
Yarrawonga: 0.1, 6.5, 6.5, 9.6: 60
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Goals: Wangaratta Rovers: W. Christie 4, N. Cooper 4, L. O’Brien 2, N. Scholte 2, S. Rourke, D. Wilson.
Yarrawonga: B. Coghill 2, C. Courtney, N. Fothergill, N. Irvine, J. James, B. Kennedy, B. Schofield, C. Wilson.
Best: Wangaratta Rovers: N. Cooper, C. Ledger, S. Booth, B. Paul, W. Christie, W. Nolan.
Yarrawonga: C. Wilson, N. Irvine, B. Kennedy, B. Coghill, Z. Fraser, M. Findlay.
Yarrawonga might not have claimed the four points, but their gutsy second-quarter surge against the ladder-leading Wangaratta Rovers will go down as one of their most spirited efforts of the season.
With a depleted lineup featuring just eight players from last year’s grand final side, the Pigeons looked up against it after the Rovers slammed on four unanswered goals in the opening term.
But the second quarter was something special.
A long-range bomb from Nick Irvine, set up by a perfectly executed handball from Bronson Schofield off a set play, sparked the turnaround.
That major ignited a purple patch for the Pigeons, with further goals to Nick Fothergill, debutant Cooper Courtney (his first in Pigeons colours), Bronson Schofield, and two to Ben Coghill completing a six-goal-to-one blitz.
By halftime, the injury-ravaged Pigeons had flipped the script and held a six-point lead over the premiership favourites—an extraordinary feat considering the outs.
Yarrawonga were missing a host of key names, but the returning core of Cam Wilson, Nick Irvine, Ben Kennedy, and Coghill from last year's grand final stood tall.
Coghill finished with two goals and was among the most damaging forwards on the ground.
The Rovers flexed their muscle after the main break, eventually regaining control, but not before the Pigeons showed they can still punch with the heavyweights.
There were plenty of positives to take from the match for Yarrawonga.
Zac Fraser enjoyed his most productive outing of the season with 19 touches in a promising midfield role.
Jack James broke through for his first senior goal, while Harry Wheeler led all players with 11 tackles in another typically gritty performance.
Cam Wilson was again a pillar in the engine room, collecting 20 disposals and an impressive 11 clearances.
Yarrawonga now turn their attention to the stretch of the season—hosting North Albury this weekend at JC Lowe Oval, before heading to Lavington in Round 17, and finishing the home-and-away campaign back on home soil against the Wodonga Raiders.
While the odds will be stacked against them this week against the Hoppers, the club’s performance on the weekend proves they're more than capable of springing a late season upset.
Reserves
Wangaratta Rovers 21.14: 140 def Yarrawonga 3.6: 24
The Yarrawonga Reserves were once again up against it on Saturday, but with the help of some familiar faces in unfamiliar jumpers, they fought out a spirited contest against Wangaratta Rovers.
With numbers stretched thin due to ongoing injuries and unavailability, the Rovers generously lent six players to help the Pigeons field a full side.
Among them, former Pigeon Dan McLaughlin alongside Ben Kneebone, Shane Gaston, Darcy Booth, Jimmy McLaughlin, and Josh Naish, all donned the blue and white hoops for the day.
Matt Grinter continued his standout season and was again judged best afield for Yarrawonga.
His consistent form has been a bright spot across the year, though he might still be daydreaming of an Italian summer.
Dylan Flanagan was rock-solid in numerous positions, refusing to be beaten in any one-on-one contest and setting the tone with his competitiveness and composure under pressure.
Tom Dowling’s rich vein of form also continued, playing a key role across half-back with his composed ball use, helping the Pigeons repel the Rovers' forward entries.
Another promising sign for the Pigeons was the performance of Alex Kealy, who spent time through the midfield and showed real grit and determination.
With a big pre-season under his belt, Kealy looms as a potential breakout player in 2026.
While the scoreboard may not have gone their way, the effort and resilience on display reflected the Pigeons' trademark spirit.
With two rounds remaining, the group will be aiming to finish the season strongly and take momentum into next year.
Goals: D. Flanagan, M. Grinter.
Best: M. Grinter, D. Flanagan, A. Kealy, D. Walsh-Hall, T. Dowling, R. Bone.
Thirds
Wangaratta Rovers: 3.6, 6.9, 8.9, 11.11: 77
Yarrawonga: 1.1, 1.6, 2.8, 3.9: 27
Goals: Wangaratta Rovers: J. Correll 5, C. Breheny, H. Dodgshun, C. Lugg, Z. O’Shannessy, C. Ormond, E. Saunders.
Yarrawonga: T. Baxter, L. Henley, S. Trembath.
Best: Wangaratta Rovers: J. Allan, T. Ford, C. Flynn, C. Lugg, H. Mullane, J. Correll.
Yarrawonga: L. Wren, B. McDonald, S. Bigger, S. Trembath, T. Clarkson, X. Mitchell.
Pigeons Loft
Senior Football
In a clash between the club’s friendly rivals, Yarrawonga came out guns blazing, taking it right up to the ladder leaders and lead at halftime.
The second half saw the momentum shift, but the game proved a valuable lesson - when the Seniors apply pressure and play as one, the Pigeons can still match it with the best.
Plenty of positives to take away as the side builds for their last three games this season.
Netball
Grade’s A, B and Under 15s all had great wins.
The A Grade Pigeons have been dominating.
C Grade had a tough battle, as the Rovers had the edge required to win.
The Under 17 girls had a big learning game.
Plenty of hard work, great passages of play and lots to build on as the Pigeon’s head into the final rounds.
Mental Health Luncheon – August 9
The YFNC is 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.
Next weekend at Home – Pigeons vs North Albury
With only three games remaining this season, the Pigeons are ready to deliver.
As the weather is looking promising, there’s no better way next Saturday other than being down at the club, cheering on the Pigeons.
On the Court: Netball fans, get ready as the A Grade clash should be a close encounter.
Second plays fourth in what will be an absolute showstopper.
Let’s make it a big one, Pigeons family, get down and support the club’s netballers.
Where: JC Lowe Oval
When: This Saturday
Luncheon Tickets: $30
Major Partners Thank You
Club Mulwala, Kennedy Builders, Belmores, BETR, RuralCo, The Play Project, Yarrawonga Holiday Park, Yarrawonga Hotel, and BG Finance — YFNC couldn’t do what they do without their contributions.
Thursday Night Teas
Join us 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 thanks to the Yarrawonga Hotel, Wig Chop, The Linen House, Rich Glen, Mint Boutique, Free as a Bird, Miss Dolly, Intersport Wingate’s, Jacyees and One Zach, for their ongoing support.
Yarrawonga Chronicle