Dylan Mills boots it long to clear the danger.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
The Deniliquin Rovers reserves have won their way into a Picola League preliminary final.
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After going down to Katandra by eight points during the home-and-away season — and with the memory still fresh of Katandra ending their campaign in last year’s semi finals — the captains’ message for Sunday’s qualifying final was simple: win.
And win they did, in a dominant display built on an even team effort across the ground.
The opening quarter was played at true finals' intensity, with both sides relentless in their attack on the ball.
The Rovers set the tone early, their hard running and pressure earning them a two-goal lead at the first break.
Coach Matt Horne praised the group’s intensity, but demanded more.
Up forward, Tristan Fitzsimmons was unstoppable, finishing with five goals and a spot among the best, while Jack Pekin also proved a constant threat.
Scott Howard was his ever-reliable self, with Bailey Caruso, Damian Hope and Hayden Gardiner dazzling the crowd with flashes of brilliance.
In the middle, John Allitt gave his teammates first use of the ball, while Bobby Hall was simply on fire.
Aden Bermingham’s tireless work rate and impact around contests earned him a place in the best, alongside Taj Payne and Connor Didcock, whose second and third efforts set the standard in defence and helped control play.
The backline was once again ruthless, denying their opponents at every turn.
Dylan Mills consistently cleared the danger, while Sam Richardson crashed through packs with authority.
The boys will now hit the track hard over the coming weeks as they await this weekend’s results to see who they’ll meet in the preliminary final.
Final score: Deni Rovers 15.9 (99) def Katandra 3.2 (20).
Goals: Tristan Fitzsimmons 5, Scott Howard 3, Bailey Caruso 2, Damian Hope 2, Hayden Gardiner, Jack Pekin, Harry Turner.
Best players: Bobby Hall, Aden Bermingham, Jack Pekin, Tristan Fitzsimmons, Taj Payne, Connor Didcock.
Ben Littmann takes a strong mark, securing possession for his team.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Bobby Hall and John Allitt combine forces on the field, showing teamwork in action.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Rylan Wade sends it long as a Katandra opponent lunges for a smother.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Joey Hay sidesteps his opponents, weaving through traffic.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Joey Hay lets fly with a powerful kick down the field.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Connor Didcock sends the footy soaring with a precise kick.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Aden Bermingham battles through three opponents as John Allitt moves in to collect the ball.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Ben Littmann weaves through opponents with quick feet and sharp moves.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
John Allitt takes control in the ruck, leaping to win the ball.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Joey Hay drives the ball forward with a clean kick.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Bobby Hall holds back his opponent, stopping him from reaching the football.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Tristan Fitzsimmons soars above the pack to grab the ball.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
Matthew Horne sends the footy downfield with a strong kick.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
John Allitt drives the ball forward with a solid kick.
Photo by
Mel Sampson
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