Benalla 11.9 (75) def. Rochester 10.12 (72)
This mid-2016 clash came down to the wire. An after-the-siren shot from Rochester’s Steven Stroobants could have sealed the win for the Tigers in front of a vocal home crowd.
But alas, it wasn’t to be as the Sherrin sailed to the right and Benalla celebrated the save.
In a game between second and third, the Tigers got off to a flying start over the reigning premiers, garnering a lead of 20 by the first break.
The Saints responded in the second, cutting the lead to eight, before charging ahead by six at three-quarter-time – a feat particularly remarkable as piling injuries left the Saints without a bench.
And while Stroobants secured the final goal of the game for Rochester to get within an inch of the Saints late in the game, it wasn’t enough without that second – albiet missed – shot at goal.
Benalla’s Farran Priest was a force down forward, kicking four, while first year player Lachlan Thompson also snagged three.
Brody Webster, staring in defence, was named the Saints best performer, while Nick O’Connor and Jacob Perry shared duties for Rochester, kicking three apiece.
Lockington-Bamawm United v Leitchville-Gunbower
Round 2, 2015 at Nichol Trading Oval, Lockington
L-G 15.17 (107) def. LBU 4.13 (37)
WHEN the two local rivals met in the early stages of the 2015 season, it marked the changing of the guard.
After four straight premierships, the Cats were on the way down while Leitchy-Gunny were establishing themselves as one of the HDFNL’s best teams.
The visitors were able to keep LBU at arm’s length for the first half, before they ran away with the game after the main break.
Brendan Hancock and Matt Perri were dynamic for the visitors as they kicked five goals apiece.
Jye Keath was named best afield for the Bombers, while Matt Bongiovanni was a solid contributor for the Cats in a losing effort.