Weekender Notes Rd. 8
For the first time in many seasons the Barooga footballers experienced the grand slam of victories when each of the four club football teams won their MFL matches versus Rumbalara last Saturday. Barooga netballers faced stern opposition from the Rumbalara club and roles were reversed on the scoreboard with the Shepparton-based girls proving too strong in six out of eight netball matches in the round seven Murray League fixture.
The fourths kicked the competition off with a delayed start courtesy of a Rumbalara bus that experienced mechanical difficulties on the trip north. Coach Mick Dunn was well pleased with the final result with the young Hawks running out comfortable winners by 66 points. Better players included Jay Dunn (Barooga Bakery), Logan Morey (Barooga General Store), Daniel Russell (Spanner) and Tom Creenaune (Barooga IGA).
Frank Armfield’s thirds played some hard running skilful football to prevail over Rumbalara by 38 points. Captain Josh McGaw (Menthas) led from the front with consistent support from Matt Demaio (Barooga General Store), Conor Ryan (Andrew Jenkins Real Estate) and Cal Brooks (Babcon).
Nick Flanagan’s reserves continued their winning ways with a very convincing 90 points to spare against a much depleted opposition. Goals were evenly spread with Brenton Hunt (Menthas) and Liam Ryan posting three apiece. With improving fitness levels Hunt played another dominant game in the ruck with able assistance from Joel Kirk (Bottom Pub), Michael Bourke (Bottom Pub)and Zeke Bunge (Barooga Sporties).
The seniors took on Rumbalara with a number of key players missing through injury and unavailability. Coach John McNamara took the opportunity to blood a couple of new players with Ben McNeill and James Wingate playing their first senior games. Tom Crapp (major incentive 1)amassed many telling possessions and put most to great use. Jamie Stanyer (major incentive award 2) also featured prominently as the Hawks posted a comfortable 60 point win. Minor awards went to Keiran Hill and Matt Hendry.
Netball best player awards went to Taylah Hazelman (A grade); Caitlin Mills (B grade); Hannah Kelly (C grade); Julie Humphries (C reserve); Sophie Doyle, Helena Sanderson and Mikayla Bowden (under 17’s); Kayla Eddy (under 15s); Maggie Kelly and Dana Millstead (under 13’s) and Chloe Anthony (under 11’s).
A good day’s footy and netball was followed up in the evening by a very successful Players’ Auction organised by Laurie Flanagan with son, Nick, spruiking the fast and furious bids in a colourful and expert manner at the Cobram Barooga Golf Club, attended by over 90 club members.