The Deniliquin Rams faced a tough challenge on Saturday against ladder leaders Congupna, eventually going down by 78 points.
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Despite the result, the Rams showed plenty of fight against one of the competition's benchmark sides.
Former AFL premiership player Willie Rioli made a memorable one-off appearance for the Rams and was outstanding throughout the afternoon, finishing with three goals and providing plenty of excitement for the home crowd.
Ben Rioli was also influential, working hard around the ground and contributing strongly in all areas.
Having the class of the Riolis in the team lifted the young Rams to a monstrous seven-goal third term.
The Rams were well served by Duncan Hughes and young winger Andrew Smith, who both worked tirelessly on the outside.
Ben East competed strongly in the ruck, while Tom McCallum produced an excellent defensive performance, shutting down one of Congupna's key forwards.
Riley Hamilton also impressed in his return from injury, showing plenty of positive signs.
While the scoreboard didn't fall their way, the Rams will take valuable lessons from the contest as they continue to develop against the competition's best.
Many young (and older) players took plenty away from teaming up with the Riolis - their presence, leadership, and humble attitude was inspiring to say the least.
Final score: Deni Rams 7.4 (46) def by Congupna 18.16 (124).
Goals: Willie Rioli 3, Ben East, Charlie Hillier, Matt MacDonald, Brock Redden.
Best: Duncan Hughes, Andrew Smith, Ben East, Tom McCallum, Riley Hamilton, Will Henderson.
Reserves
No report supplied.
Final score: Rams 5.1 (31) def by Congupna 17.11 (112).
Goals: Lachie Cooke, Zack Thompson, Jake Cavallaro, Andrew Croker, Anthony Hartshorn.
Best: Zack Thompson, Lachlan Marshall, Josh Todd, Aydan Matthews, Anthony Hartshorn, Will Martin.
Under-17s
Deniliquin Rams thirds continued their strong season with a hard-fought victory over Congupna.
The Rams showed great teamwork and determination, controlling much of the contest and making the most of their opportunities in front of goal to finish with 9.5 (59).
It was exciting to see young Angus Henderson step up from the fourths and slot five impressive goals.
Strong performances across the ground were recognised by coach Harry Hillier at three-quarter time, as he made sure the boys knew the importance of running out the game and securing the vital win.
Overall, the boys played disciplined football, applied consistent pressure and worked hard for each other all day.
It was another encouraging team effort as the Rams continue to build momentum through the season.
Final score: Deni Rams 9.5 (59) def Congupna 5.5 (35).
Goals: Angus Henderson 5, Spencer Cowley 2, Bentley Hardman, Henry Robinson.
Awards: Angus Henderson, Tom Way, Charlie McCallum, Max Burge, Ryder Perrin, Jack McGrillen.
Under-14s
After a disappointing loss to Finley the previous week, the under-14s trained hard to refocus on the fundamentals that had seen them play strong football earlier in the season.
The Rams started strongly from the opening bounce, moving the ball well through the midfield and capitalising on strong leads from the forward line.
Their teamwork and willingness to link up created numerous scoring opportunities and ensured they maintained control for much of the first half.
While the scoreboard reflected their dominance at the main break, the team was reminded to make the most of their chances in front of goal, having registered almost as many points as goals.
With several of the older players unavailable, it was an opportunity for the younger members of the side to step up, and they did exactly that.
Strong second-half performances across the ground were highlighted by goals from Oscar Strongman, Ned Wettenhall and Charlie Murray, helping the Rams secure a well-earned and impressive victory.
Final score: Deni Rams 24.16 (160) def Congupna 1.0 (6).
Goal: Jaxon Rothe 10, Lachie Tritton 4, Oscar Strongman 2, Ned Wettenhall 2, Rocky Sztejman, Jonathon Moorse, Henry Pisasale, Lachie Macdonald, Tom Marshall, Charlie Murray.
Awards: Jaxon Rothe, Will Crossley, Jonathon Moorse, Ollie Dellwo, Oscar Strongman, Ned Wettenhall.
Goulburn Murray Junior League
Under-12s
The Deniliquin Rams under-12s put on a solid performance to defeat Echuca Bombers by 14 points on Friday night.
The Rams controlled much of the contest, kicking the opening goal.
Despite some inaccurate finishing, Deniliquin created plenty of opportunities and steadily increased their lead at each break.
The Bombers managed a stronger second half, with a major in the third and fourth quarter.
Deniliquin Rams finished with a 31 to 17 victory.
Final score: Deni Rams 4.7 (31) def Echuca Bombers 2.5 (17).
Goals: Zac Germano, Nate Fitzpatrick, Harrison Leetham, Charlie Eastman.
Awards: Nate Fitzpatrick, Lenny Maher, Oliver Hall, Chase Dunn.
Under-10s
After a well‑earned break, the Deni Rams under-10s returned to the field for round eight, taking on a strong and physical Kyabram Black.
The first half was tightly contested, with both sides applying pressure around the ball and making every possession count.
Brock McComb along with Levi Robson were standouts early, attacking the contest with confidence and leading the way as impressive on‑ballers.
Their work rate kept the Rams in the fight and set the tone for the rest of the team.
After half time, the Rams came out with renewed hunger and intensity.
The turning point arrived when Hugo Leech slotted a brilliant goal, lifting the entire side and shifting the momentum firmly in Deni’s favour.
Down back, Willy Eastman was rock‑solid, reading the play beautifully and shutting down multiple Kyabram attacks. His composure under pressure helped the Rams maintain control as the game opened up.
Final score: Not scored.
Goals: Will Hussey, George Pisasale, Bailey Cabral, Hugo Leech.
Awards: Brock McComb, Levi Robson, Hugo Leech, Willy Eastman.