Murchison-Toolamba second half surge secures Kyabram District League victory over Avenel

From the first bounce, it was the Swans that made its claim for that spot.

Seven goals to Avenel in the first term had Murchison-Toolamba scrambling, as the Swans made light work of the reigning premiers’ defence.

A side never to give in, the Hoppers would ensure the lead remained within striking distance, kicking four goals themselves to hang in the balance, although there was plenty of work to be done for the green and gold.

After a quarter-time rev-up, Murchison-Toolamba responded, but Avenel held its weight and restricted an early collapse.

The Grasshoppers jumped out the huddle with a flurry of attacks, but Avenel made its reply, and at half time held a 19-point advantage in a high-scoring affair, 11.4 (70) to 7.9 (51).

It was a tale of two halves though, and after succumbing to Longwood in an upset loss in round two, Murchison-Toolamba was sure to not have a repeat effort.

Five goals to three in the third quarter reduced the margin to within a kick, and the momentum rolled on even further in the last.

Avenel’s fluent attack seen in the first quarter was halted across the final term, the Swans held scoreless as Murchison-Toolamba got back to its best, kicking five goals for a third-consecutive quarter to run over the top of Avenel and secure a convincing win on the scoreboard, 14.5 (89) to 17.17 (119).

Adam Macgibbon (five goals) and Aidan Lloyd (four) were the most dangerous in the arcs for the Hoppers, earning best on ground votes alongside Jai Utiger.

Corey Avola was Avenel’s best-on after booting four majors on Sunday afternoon.

In round three’s other match, Nagambie rolled past Stanhope by 119 points as Tom Barnes kicked six.

The Lakers sit four premiership points clear in first thanks to its extra game on top of most of the competition, although its percentage of 495.7 will take some catching too.

Nagambie has the bye in round four as all other teams return to action.