Match Reports – Round 1 v Deniliquin
Seniors
The Cats’ season kicked off on Friday night under lights against arch rivals, the Deni Rams. The game always draws a big crowd and never disappoints.
After a huge pre-season, the Cats started well, with Will Garner bagging two majors in his first game in the colours. Will Sexton gave him good use out of the midfield. The game was hot early, with Deni putting it up to the Cats with two of their own to Finley’s 3.1 at the first break.
The second quarter saw the Cats kicking with the wind, but inaccuracy hurt them, kicking 2.9 for the quarter. Highlights included a great boundary goal from Vincent Adduci and another from coach Jack Sexton. Finley’s defence held up well, led by Jake Armer’s efforts, with the Cats leading 5.10 to Deni’s 3.0 at the main break.
After half-time, the Rams came out firing, kicking the first five goals unanswered to take a five-point lead into the final quarter.
The Cats had a late run, with Josh Everingham kicking a very impressive goal after a solid day, but two final-term goals to the Rams saw them hold on against an inaccurate Finley side.
Final Scores: Finley 8.15.63 lost to Deniliquin 11.3.69
Goals
Will Garner 2, Jack Sexton 1, Luke Congram 1, Kris Bextream 1, Ben Nisbet 1, Josh Everingham 1, Vincent Adduci 1
Best Players
Will Garner, Will Sexton, Jack Sexton, Jacob Armer, Vincent Adduci, Josh Everingham
Awards
Eagle i Machinery: Jacob Armer
Kelly Grains: Will Sexton
Garnaut Private Wealth / Fawkner Property: Josh Everingham
The Bendigo Restaurant: Will Garner
Reserves
In the Twos, we started the year the right way, handing the Deni Rams a 10-goal defeat. Our boys were led out by captain Jonty King, who stood tall and created a great forward option all day.
The team’s best-on-ground award went to newcomer to AFL football, Jade Duroux, who led the defence and stopped many of the Rams’ attacks. Jack Miley also had an outstanding game in the forward half before moving into the midfield rotation, showing his teammates how to tackle and chase.
Lachy Hawkins had a strong game in the ruck, giving our midfielders first use of the ball. Mark McQualter, Chris Wright and Will Doolan were also strong contributors who gave their all for the team. Overall, it was a great team performance, with everyone putting into practice what we have been working on at training.
Go Cats!
Final Scores: Finley 12.8.80 def. Deniliquin 2.2.14
Goals
Reece Simmons 2, Harrison King 2, Jackson Haigh 2, Jack Miley 2, Matt Jackson 1, Jonty King 1, Dom Philpot 1, Jeremy Congram 1
Best Players
Jade Duroux, Jack Miley, Mark McQualter, Lachy Hawkins, Chris Wright, Will Doolan
Awards
Irwin Stockfeeds: Jade Duroux
Marshall Ag: Jack Miley
Finley RSC: Mark McQualter
Finley Country Club: Lachy Hawkins
U17s
Our season started in perfect conditions for an early-season afternoon game against our biggest rivals, Deniliquin. With a large number of last year’s fourth-side players stepping up to Under 17s, we have an enthusiastic young group eager to learn and continue developing alongside our middle- and top-age players.
Our boys battled hard from the first bounce but were up against strong opposition. Campbell Reynolds, in his first U17s game, showed great determination and skill stepping up to the faster-paced level. Will Masalski provided great run, bringing teammates into the game and was rewarded with our only goal.
Darcy Sutton applied himself well against a much bigger opponent, as did the ever-reliable Ryan Bauer. Blake Vidler, Jackson Tooke and Pat Billings showed flashes of their potential throughout the game.
It was great to get the season underway, and we look forward to continued improvement from this great group of players.
Final Scores: Finley 1.4.10 lost to Deniliquin 15.7.97
Goals
Will Masalaski 1
Best Players
Jackson Tooke, Patrick Billings, Tom White, Blake Vidler, Lachlan Marshall
Awards
Boomerang Motors Most Courageous Cat: Jackson Tooke
Ross & Sarah: Patrick Billings
Sutto’s Mini Excavations: Tom White
Bauer Family: Blake Vidler
Flippa’s Auto: Lachlan Marshall
U14s
The fourths opened their season against last year’s grand finalists, Deniliquin, producing a strong and determined performance.
It was a tight contest from start to finish, with the young Cats giving their all on the big Deni ground. Jed Flanagan led the way all game and came out firing early. Noah Brindley also led from the front, making an impact both forward and through the midfield.
Sam Hay battled hard in the ruck, taking on every contest despite recovering from illness. Up forward, Will Harris looked dangerous at ground level, while Orlando Orsida provided a strong aerial target whenever the ball came inside 50.
In defence, Sam White and Hudson Daniel stood tall and held up strongly in the back half. The boys’ tackling pressure and willingness to share the ball were excellent. In the end, a few basic errors at crucial times proved costly against a Deni side that capitalised on every opportunity.
Final Scores: Finley 6.5.41 lost to Deniliquin 8.7.55
Goals
Orlando Orsida 2, Noah Brindley 1, Levi Jakeman 1, Rory Burton 1, Will Harris 1
Best Players
Noah Brindley, Will Harris, Orlando Orsida, Hudson Daniel, Sam White
Awards
Pether Ag: Noah Brindley
Clarke Family: Will Harris
Tim Harris Transport: Orlando Orsida
Urquhart Ag: Hudson Daniel
Lucas McCaw Award: Sam White
NETBALL
Round 1: Deniliquin vs Finley Netball Match Report
Under 11s
Our youngest Cats came out firing on Good Friday, following a solid pre-season under coaches Addison Clarke and Charlotte Fleming. The team looked sharp from the outset, with Imogen Harris and Bailey Kennedy shooting accurately and with confidence.
Camilla Massina dominated through the centre, while Scarlett Pyle and Silva Lüderitz were relentless in defence, creating plenty of turnovers. Cassie Dundon, Sarah Pascoe and Samantha Flanagan provided strong support through the midcourt.
A special mention to our bottom-age girls, Zara Swadesir and Elvyn Marshall, who both showed great potential for the season ahead.
Awards
• Boc Donkin Award – Bailey Kennedy
• FFNC Canteen Award – Silva Lüderitz
Under 13s
Deniliquin 31 def. Finley 1
The Under 13s girls had a strong game. While the result didn’t go our way, there were plenty of positives and great skills on display.
Elsie Murray and Georgia Flanagan were solid in defence, making it difficult for Deni to score freely. Rori Dean and Ruby Delmenico worked tirelessly in attack, keeping their composure and continuing to apply pressure throughout the game.
In hot conditions, the team showed great resilience to push through to the final whistle.
Awards
• Vicky Smith Award – Ruth Everingham
• FFNC Canteen Award – Georgia Flanagan
Under 15s
Deniliquin 28 def. Finley 25
The Under 15s showed great determination in their Round 1 clash, fighting back from a seven-goal deficit at the start of the final quarter to finish just three goals short.
After a slow start, the girls lifted their intensity across the court. A strong final quarter saw Finley outscore Deni 12 goals to 8, highlighting their resilience, teamwork and never-give-up attitude.
Eloise Harris led from the front with an outstanding all-round performance, creating numerous turnovers. Lucia Ferres made an immediate impact, applying strong defensive pressure and giving the shooters confidence with her work around the ring.
Despite the loss, it was a very positive start to the season.
Awards
• Campbell Award – Eloise Harris
• FFNC Canteen Award – Lucia Ferres
Under 17s
Finley 40 def. Deniliquin 39
The Under 17s had a competitive hit-out against rivals Deni. The girls worked their way into the game in the first half, with phenomenal defensive pressure from the outset.
Slowing the play and making effective decisions allowed them to close the gap and draw level by three-quarter time. The team fought hard and came together to secure a one-goal win in the final quarter.
Awards
• Three Girls Homewares – Addison Baker
• Urquhart Family – Sophie Urquhart
C Reserve
Finley 67 def. Deniliquin 34
With a mix of experience and new players, C Reserve got the season off to a strong start with a comprehensive win.
Congratulations to Brona, Jess and Kaz C on their debut games—we look forward to seeing their continued improvement throughout the season.
There was plenty of versatility on court, with players rotating through multiple positions.
Awards
• FFNC BOC Award – Paula Gowans
• FFNC Coaches Award – Mandy Fleming
C Grade
Deniliquin 51 def. Finley 31
C Grade started strongly in their first match with a new-look team, but injuries and pressure from a very strong Deni side made it difficult to maintain momentum.
To Deni’s credit, they shot accurately, and our defence was unable to consistently shut them down. There is plenty of room for improvement, and we look forward to responding against Cobram.
Awards
• FFNC BOC Award – Bridgett Teggert
• FFNC Coaches Award – Lauren Kerr
B Grade
Deniliquin 54 def. Finley 29
B Grade faced a tough opening round contest. Despite the result, there were many positives to take from the game.
Coming off a strong and positive pre-season, the group will regroup and look to respond against Cobram. With several new combinations on court, the team will continue to build as the season progresses.
The match provided valuable learning opportunities, particularly around ball control under pressure, communication in both attack and defence, and maintaining consistency across all four quarters.
Awards
• FFNC Club Award – BOC: Gemma Braybon
• FFNC Club Award – Coaches: Hannah Savle
A Grade
Deniliquin 55 def. Finley 26
After a strong pre-season, this wasn’t the start A Grade had hoped for. While the scoreboard didn’t reflect the effort, there were still positives and valuable lessons to take from the match.
Deni applied strong pressure across the court, making it difficult for Finley to transition the ball smoothly into attack. This led to turnovers and allowed the opposition to build momentum.
At times, umpiring decisions disrupted flow, but to the team’s credit, they continued to compete. In the final quarter, Finley produced some excellent passages of play, showcasing their potential.
The group will regroup at training and aim to bounce back strongly against Cobram.
Awards
• BOC – Essential Hair / Ty Russell Building: Ruby Russell
• RSC Coaches Award – Cassidy Reynolds
Seniors
The Cats’ season kicked off on Friday night under lights against arch rivals, the Deni Rams. The game always draws a big crowd and never disappoints.
After a huge pre-season, the Cats started well, with Will Garner bagging two majors in his first game in the colours. Will Sexton gave him good use out of the midfield. The game was hot early, with Deni putting it up to the Cats with two of their own to Finley’s 3.1 at the first break.
The second quarter saw the Cats kicking with the wind, but inaccuracy hurt them, kicking 2.9 for the quarter. Highlights included a great boundary goal from Vincent Adduci and another from coach Jack Sexton. Finley’s defence held up well, led by Jake Armer’s efforts, with the Cats leading 5.10 to Deni’s 3.0 at the main break.
After half-time, the Rams came out firing, kicking the first five goals unanswered to take a five-point lead into the final quarter.
The Cats had a late run, with Josh Everingham kicking a very impressive goal after a solid day, but two final-term goals to the Rams saw them hold on against an inaccurate Finley side.
Final Scores: Finley 8.15.63 lost to Deniliquin 11.3.69
Goals
Will Garner 2, Jack Sexton 1, Luke Congram 1, Kris Bextream 1, Ben Nisbet 1, Josh Everingham 1, Vincent Adduci 1
Best Players
Will Garner, Will Sexton, Jack Sexton, Jacob Armer, Vincent Adduci, Josh Everingham
Awards
Eagle i Machinery: Jacob Armer
Kelly Grains: Will Sexton
Garnaut Private Wealth / Fawkner Property: Josh Everingham
The Bendigo Restaurant: Will Garner
Reserves
In the Twos, we started the year the right way, handing the Deni Rams a 10-goal defeat. Our boys were led out by captain Jonty King, who stood tall and created a great forward option all day.
The team’s best-on-ground award went to newcomer to AFL football, Jade Duroux, who led the defence and stopped many of the Rams’ attacks. Jack Miley also had an outstanding game in the forward half before moving into the midfield rotation, showing his teammates how to tackle and chase.
Lachy Hawkins had a strong game in the ruck, giving our midfielders first use of the ball. Mark McQualter, Chris Wright and Will Doolan were also strong contributors who gave their all for the team. Overall, it was a great team performance, with everyone putting into practice what we have been working on at training.
Go Cats!
Final Scores: Finley 12.8.80 def. Deniliquin 2.2.14
Goals
Reece Simmons 2, Harrison King 2, Jackson Haigh 2, Jack Miley 2, Matt Jackson 1, Jonty King 1, Dom Philpot 1, Jeremy Congram 1
Best Players
Jade Duroux, Jack Miley, Mark McQualter, Lachy Hawkins, Chris Wright, Will Doolan
Awards
Irwin Stockfeeds: Jade Duroux
Marshall Ag: Jack Miley
Finley RSC: Mark McQualter
Finley Country Club: Lachy Hawkins
U17s
Our season started in perfect conditions for an early-season afternoon game against our biggest rivals, Deniliquin. With a large number of last year’s fourth-side players stepping up to Under 17s, we have an enthusiastic young group eager to learn and continue developing alongside our middle- and top-age players.
Our boys battled hard from the first bounce but were up against strong opposition. Campbell Reynolds, in his first U17s game, showed great determination and skill stepping up to the faster-paced level. Will Masalski provided great run, bringing teammates into the game and was rewarded with our only goal.
Darcy Sutton applied himself well against a much bigger opponent, as did the ever-reliable Ryan Bauer. Blake Vidler, Jackson Tooke and Pat Billings showed flashes of their potential throughout the game.
It was great to get the season underway, and we look forward to continued improvement from this great group of players.
Final Scores: Finley 1.4.10 lost to Deniliquin 15.7.97
Goals
Will Masalaski 1
Best Players
Jackson Tooke, Patrick Billings, Tom White, Blake Vidler, Lachlan Marshall
Awards
Boomerang Motors Most Courageous Cat: Jackson Tooke
Ross & Sarah: Patrick Billings
Sutto’s Mini Excavations: Tom White
Bauer Family: Blake Vidler
Flippa’s Auto: Lachlan Marshall
U14s
The fourths opened their season against last year’s grand finalists, Deniliquin, producing a strong and determined performance.
It was a tight contest from start to finish, with the young Cats giving their all on the big Deni ground. Jed Flanagan led the way all game and came out firing early. Noah Brindley also led from the front, making an impact both forward and through the midfield.
Sam Hay battled hard in the ruck, taking on every contest despite recovering from illness. Up forward, Will Harris looked dangerous at ground level, while Orlando Orsida provided a strong aerial target whenever the ball came inside 50.
In defence, Sam White and Hudson Daniel stood tall and held up strongly in the back half. The boys’ tackling pressure and willingness to share the ball were excellent. In the end, a few basic errors at crucial times proved costly against a Deni side that capitalised on every opportunity.
Final Scores: Finley 6.5.41 lost to Deniliquin 8.7.55
Goals
Orlando Orsida 2, Noah Brindley 1, Levi Jakeman 1, Rory Burton 1, Will Harris 1
Best Players
Noah Brindley, Will Harris, Orlando Orsida, Hudson Daniel, Sam White
Awards
Pether Ag: Noah Brindley
Clarke Family: Will Harris
Tim Harris Transport: Orlando Orsida
Urquhart Ag: Hudson Daniel
Lucas McCaw Award: Sam White
NETBALL
Round 1: Deniliquin vs Finley Netball Match Report
Under 11s
Our youngest Cats came out firing on Good Friday, following a solid pre-season under coaches Addison Clarke and Charlotte Fleming. The team looked sharp from the outset, with Imogen Harris and Bailey Kennedy shooting accurately and with confidence.
Camilla Massina dominated through the centre, while Scarlett Pyle and Silva Lüderitz were relentless in defence, creating plenty of turnovers. Cassie Dundon, Sarah Pascoe and Samantha Flanagan provided strong support through the midcourt.
A special mention to our bottom-age girls, Zara Swadesir and Elvyn Marshall, who both showed great potential for the season ahead.
Awards
• Boc Donkin Award – Bailey Kennedy
• FFNC Canteen Award – Silva Lüderitz
Under 13s
Deniliquin 31 def. Finley 1
The Under 13s girls had a strong game. While the result didn’t go our way, there were plenty of positives and great skills on display.
Elsie Murray and Georgia Flanagan were solid in defence, making it difficult for Deni to score freely. Rori Dean and Ruby Delmenico worked tirelessly in attack, keeping their composure and continuing to apply pressure throughout the game.
In hot conditions, the team showed great resilience to push through to the final whistle.
Awards
• Vicky Smith Award – Ruth Everingham
• FFNC Canteen Award – Georgia Flanagan
Under 15s
Deniliquin 28 def. Finley 25
The Under 15s showed great determination in their Round 1 clash, fighting back from a seven-goal deficit at the start of the final quarter to finish just three goals short.
After a slow start, the girls lifted their intensity across the court. A strong final quarter saw Finley outscore Deni 12 goals to 8, highlighting their resilience, teamwork and never-give-up attitude.
Eloise Harris led from the front with an outstanding all-round performance, creating numerous turnovers. Lucia Ferres made an immediate impact, applying strong defensive pressure and giving the shooters confidence with her work around the ring.
Despite the loss, it was a very positive start to the season.
Awards
• Campbell Award – Eloise Harris
• FFNC Canteen Award – Lucia Ferres
Under 17s
Finley 40 def. Deniliquin 39
The Under 17s had a competitive hit-out against rivals Deni. The girls worked their way into the game in the first half, with phenomenal defensive pressure from the outset.
Slowing the play and making effective decisions allowed them to close the gap and draw level by three-quarter time. The team fought hard and came together to secure a one-goal win in the final quarter.
Awards
• Three Girls Homewares – Addison Baker
• Urquhart Family – Sophie Urquhart
C Reserve
Finley 67 def. Deniliquin 34
With a mix of experience and new players, C Reserve got the season off to a strong start with a comprehensive win.
Congratulations to Brona, Jess and Kaz C on their debut games—we look forward to seeing their continued improvement throughout the season.
There was plenty of versatility on court, with players rotating through multiple positions.
Awards
• FFNC BOC Award – Paula Gowans
• FFNC Coaches Award – Mandy Fleming
C Grade
Deniliquin 51 def. Finley 31
C Grade started strongly in their first match with a new-look team, but injuries and pressure from a very strong Deni side made it difficult to maintain momentum.
To Deni’s credit, they shot accurately, and our defence was unable to consistently shut them down. There is plenty of room for improvement, and we look forward to responding against Cobram.
Awards
• FFNC BOC Award – Bridgett Teggert
• FFNC Coaches Award – Lauren Kerr
B Grade
Deniliquin 54 def. Finley 29
B Grade faced a tough opening round contest. Despite the result, there were many positives to take from the game.
Coming off a strong and positive pre-season, the group will regroup and look to respond against Cobram. With several new combinations on court, the team will continue to build as the season progresses.
The match provided valuable learning opportunities, particularly around ball control under pressure, communication in both attack and defence, and maintaining consistency across all four quarters.
Awards
• FFNC Club Award – BOC: Gemma Braybon
• FFNC Club Award – Coaches: Hannah Savle
A Grade
Deniliquin 55 def. Finley 26
After a strong pre-season, this wasn’t the start A Grade had hoped for. While the scoreboard didn’t reflect the effort, there were still positives and valuable lessons to take from the match.
Deni applied strong pressure across the court, making it difficult for Finley to transition the ball smoothly into attack. This led to turnovers and allowed the opposition to build momentum.
At times, umpiring decisions disrupted flow, but to the team’s credit, they continued to compete. In the final quarter, Finley produced some excellent passages of play, showcasing their potential.
The group will regroup at training and aim to bounce back strongly against Cobram.
Awards
• BOC – Essential Hair / Ty Russell Building: Ruby Russell
• RSC Coaches Award – Cassidy Reynolds