MATCH REPORTS - ROUND 11 RUMBALARALA
Match Reports Round 12 v Echuca United
FOOTBALL
Seniors
In near-perfect conditions over the weekend, Finley Football Club faced off against Echuca United. Both teams, positioned in the bottom half of the ladder, were evenly matched across the ground.
Finley’s Matt Jackson was playing his 200th senior game for the club and family and friends were there to help him celebrate this loyalty to the blue and white.
The first quarter was tightly contested, with only one point separating the two sides. However, in the second quarter, Echuca United began to show their dominance, taking a handy lead into halftime.
The third quarter saw Finley display some high-quality skills, challenging Echuca United. Unfortunately, Finley gave away three 50-metre penalties, resulting in three easy shots on goal for the Eagles.
The final quarter turned into a bit of a shootout. Finley managed to kick four goals; however, United responded with seven, running out convincing winners for the weekend.
Final Scores: Finley 11.7.73 lost to Echuca United 19.9.123
Goals
Reid Crowe 3, Matt Jackson 2, Nik Burns 1, Lachy Webb 1, Paul Massingham 1, Marcus Anderson 1, Lachy Kerr 1, Fraser Hawkins 1
Best Players
Mitch Carson, Jesse McDonald, Cruz Nash, Spencer Hawkins, Reid Crowe, Levi Webster
Awards
Irwin Stockfeeds: Mitch Carson
Garnaut Private Wealth: Jesse McDonald
Finley RSC: Spencer Hawkins
O’Connors Case: Cruz Nash
Eagle i Machinery: Levi Webster
Reserves
A heartbreaking one-point loss in a hard-fought contest against Echuca United, but plenty of positives to take away.
Best on Ground goes to Jack Miley, who made a sensational debut in his first ever game of AFL – not only impressing with his composure and effort around the ground but also kicking a cracking goal that easily took out Play of the Day!
Other standout performers included Jimmy Ford, Mitch Hawkins, Noah Iddles, Cam Isedale, and Sam Price, who all battled hard and kept us in the game right to the final siren.
A massive thank you to the four 3rds players who stepped up and doubled up for us – Harry Daniel, Jeremy Doolan, Cooper Sutton, and Jackson Tooke – absolute legends and a huge help on the day.
A special shoutout and big congratulations to Jake Smith, who also played his first game and performed well under pressure. Exciting future ahead!
We’ll regroup, learn, and bounce back stronger after the bye.
Final Scores: Finley 5.6.36 lost to Echuca United 5.7.37
Goals
James Kennedy 2, James Ford 1, Jonty King 1, Jack Miley 1
Best Players
Jack Miley, James Ford, Mitchell Hawkins, Harry Daniel, Noah Iddles, Cam Isedale
Awards
Haynes Butchery: Jack Miley
Finley Quality Meats: Noah Iddles
MC Herd: James Ford
Finley IGA: Harry Daniel
WD & AJ Lang: Cam Isedale
U17’s
The 3rds came up against an Echuca United side keen to stay in touch with the top 6. In the opening stanza the boys contested well but unfortunately, we just couldn’t quite hit the scoreboard. The start of the 2nd quarter though, we converted straight away with a great goal from the much-improved Tom White. The 3rd quarter was much like the 1st with a competitive performance, but the scoreboard just wasn’t going our way. The team continued to play well right to the final siren with Harry Daniel spoiling himself with a great long-range goal and then putting in a massive defensive effort for teammate Ben Rourke to get on the end of the ball and kick himself a goal. Impressive performances on the day whereby captain Daniel, with his never quit attitude, continuing to collect possessions all day. Ash Hines was moved Forward this week and played his best game for the year launching at the ball in the air and on the ground which was great to see. Pete Everingham, Ben Rourke and Logan Presley showed great signs throughout the game and continue to improve. Sam Hurlston was also in everything and shows a great future. The boys will hit the bye and look forward to a big game against Congupna.
Final Scores: Finley 3.1.19 lost to Echuca United 12.10.82
Goals
Harry Daniel 1, Tom White 1, Ben Rourke 1
Best Players
Ash Hines, Harry Daniel, Cooper Sutton, Sam Hurlston, Peter Everingham, Ben Rourke
Awards
Boomerang Motors Most Courageous Cat: Ash Hines
Ross & Sarah: Ben Rourke
Finley Bakery: Peter Everingham
Tuppal Dairy: Sam Hurlston
Manix Bulk Fuels: Logan Peasley
U14’s
This week, Finley hosted Echuca United at home in what was anticipated to be a strong follow-up to last week’s impressive victory. The team entered the match with high confidence, but Echuca came out with intensity from the first bounce, catching us off guard and taking early control of the game.
Despite several opportunities, we were unable to convert in the initial stages, which left us chasing momentum throughout the match. While the result didn’t fall our way, there were several standout individual performances that show promising signs for the group’s continued development.
Samual Hay led from the front, courageously putting his body on the line all day. He was well supported by Joel Fitzell, Josiah Everingham, Prince Edgar Jangao, and Dominic Kelly, all contributing strongly across the ground. Angus Urquhart made a significant impact in the second half off half-back, reading the play well and using his pace and footy IQ to rebound effectively. Down back, Tommy Bain and Ollie Flintoft stood tall, providing a solid defensive presence under pressure.
Ultimately, our inability to maintain consistent effort across all four quarters proved costly. However, there were plenty of positives to take from the performance. With a bye this week, the focus shifts to regrouping and returning stronger in the next round.
Final Scores: Finley 2.2.14 lost to Echuca United 2.3.15
Goals
Sam White 1, Josiah Everingham 1
Best Players
Joel Fitzell, Samuel Hay, Angus Urquhart, Josiah Everingham, Edgar Jangao, Dom Kelly
Awards
Pether Ag: Joel Fitzell
Clarke Family: Samuel Hay
Bauer Family: Angus Urquhart
Southern Riverina Livestock Transport: Josiah Everingham
Lucas McCaw Award: Edgar Jangao
U12’s
Finley Under 12s dominated under the Friday night lights with a strong win over the Hoppers, keeping them to just 1 point for the game, with only 9 players this week!
From the first bounce, Finley was switched on. The midfield worked hard, the backline was rock-solid, and the forwards took their chances. Everyone helped build momentum early, and the pressure never let up.
The Hoppers couldn’t break through Finley’s defence, while our team kept linking up, tackling hard, and playing smart footy.
Final Scores: Finley 23.20.158 def Hoppers 0.1.1
Goals:
Harvey Massina 5, Oli Taylor 5, Flynn Rourke 3, Kody Hamann 2, Zander Fleming 2, Jake Arthur 2, Levi Jakeman 2, Colby Price 1, Lincoln Price 1
Awards
FFNC Canteen: Flynn Rourke
FFNC Canteen: Oli Taylor
Nutrien Footy: Kody Hamann
U10’s
The Under 10s hit the road to take on Nathalia this week. With a few players away, it meant everyone got heaps of touches and a chance to get right into the game. Awesome to see such an effective team effort from everyone.
Camilla and Ruby were once again tackling machines. Big thanks to Tilly and Jimmy Fuller for jumping in and helping us out.
Awards
FFNC Canteen: Caleb Kennedy
FFNC Canteen: Max Valance
NETBALL
UNDER 11s
no score
The under 11 team displayed great teamwork up and down each end of the court, showcasing skilful plays and versatility between players in all aspects of netball. They worked beautifully as a team, and it is evident that what they are learning at training is being shown on the court.
FFNC bakery award - Scarlet Pyle
FFNC canteen voucher- Camilla Massina
UNDER 13s
Finley 5 def by Echuca 35
A tough game for the girls! They are working well as a team and proved in the 1st quarter they have the ability to match the game play with the top teams. Lots of improvement happening in the 13s which is rewarding to see.
Purtill Award: Grace Mullar
Vicky Smith Award: Rori dean
UNDER 15s
Finley 15 def by Echuca 31
Finley started strong in a close first half, but Echuca United’s defensive pressure proved too tough to break in the second. It just wasn’t our day in terms of getting the goals in! All the girls were working hard but simple errors led to falling behind.
Addie was outstanding in defence, protecting the post and grabbing every rebound. Amber worked tirelessly through the centre, providing safe and reliable options going forward.
A solid team effort with plenty to build on for next game!
FNC Canteen - Addie Baker
FNC Canteen - Amber Lawlor
UNDER 17s
Finley: 36 Echuca:65
Finley had a hard match against Echuca. It was a good start from the cats with strength at both ends of the court. After the first quarter the score was 12 Finley and 11 Echuca. During this quarter, the girls showed their improvement during the season so far, and our potential as a team. In the second quarter, Finley went down by 8, as Echuca demonstrated their mental strength and their flexible bench. In the third quarter, we made changes to combat the dominance of the Echuca attack, however despite our best efforts this risk did not pay off for Cats going down by another 9 goals. Echuca showcased how strong the junior netball league is and the improvements our team need to make to be better prepared later in the season.
Essential Hair, Best on Court was awarded to Remi for her skillful use of space down the court and her positive attitude the entirety of game. The Bakery Coaches Award was awarded to Pip for her coachability and her effort during the whole game.
A Grade
Finley 49 def by Echuca 64
Was a lovely day for netball with the sun shining bright. The girls played well again and gave Echuca a scare to half time. A few errors cost us on the score board, but they all continued to work on the things we have been doing at training. Was great to see them trying a new defence throw in we have been working on which ended up in a goal. This group of ladies have a great belief in each other and with a little more consistency during each quarter they will be even stronger.
Hayley was great under pressure again shooting high percentages and some great long-range shots. Her effort this weekend saw her come away with BOC.
The players now choose a players player award as too who they think played well and this week it went to Kate.
Great game again ladies, keep training hard and the rewards will come. Enjoy this week off, rest up and come back after the bye firing.
BOC - Hayley Denny
Players Choice - Kate Purtill
B Grade
Finley 30 def by Echuca 52
Another great game from the girls today, unfortunately not the end score we were looking for but definitely lots of positives to take away. Our first half of the game we stayed competitive going goal for goal with Echuca. Had a great combo in the ring between Leah, Rene and Addi mixture of strong holds and speed. They were able to work with each other and adapt quickly to who they were working with; definitely great to see. Well done to Gemma and Charlotte and Nicola in defence all three creating multiple turnovers consistently through each quarter. Ash and Miranda were able to create space and bring the ball down the court, trying to capitalise on turnovers our defence created. However, Echuca were just too good for us yesterday getting a jump on us in the third quarter we couldn’t close the gap. Finley had a lot of positives to take away and learn from in hopes of pursuing a promising finals appearance.
Awards BOC Finley Country Club Gemma Plattfuss
Coaches Finley RSC award Nicola Denny
C Grade
Finley 27 def by Echuca 65
We came up against a very well drilled and slick Echuca team this week and it showed on the scoreboard at the final whistle.
There were some great passages of play but unfortunately mistake and turnover let us down.
Irwin Stockfeed Best on Court went to Shannon Peasley who made a great return to the court with her experience and strong feeding to the shooters.
There Girls Homewares award went to Nicole who has welcomed her change to wing defence with great defensive pressure.
C Res
Finley 15 def by Echuca 47
Despite our loss we, as a team, showed great resilience; using what we train for with big arms and sticking to our lanes. We had some great passages of play,
BOC Eagle I Machinery - Stacey Dolan for keeping tight defensive pressure on her opponent all game
Coaches’ Three Girls Homewares Award - Kasey Dwyer for being versatile at both ends of the court.
FOOTBALL
Seniors
In near-perfect conditions over the weekend, Finley Football Club faced off against Echuca United. Both teams, positioned in the bottom half of the ladder, were evenly matched across the ground.
Finley’s Matt Jackson was playing his 200th senior game for the club and family and friends were there to help him celebrate this loyalty to the blue and white.
The first quarter was tightly contested, with only one point separating the two sides. However, in the second quarter, Echuca United began to show their dominance, taking a handy lead into halftime.
The third quarter saw Finley display some high-quality skills, challenging Echuca United. Unfortunately, Finley gave away three 50-metre penalties, resulting in three easy shots on goal for the Eagles.
The final quarter turned into a bit of a shootout. Finley managed to kick four goals; however, United responded with seven, running out convincing winners for the weekend.
Final Scores: Finley 11.7.73 lost to Echuca United 19.9.123
Goals
Reid Crowe 3, Matt Jackson 2, Nik Burns 1, Lachy Webb 1, Paul Massingham 1, Marcus Anderson 1, Lachy Kerr 1, Fraser Hawkins 1
Best Players
Mitch Carson, Jesse McDonald, Cruz Nash, Spencer Hawkins, Reid Crowe, Levi Webster
Awards
Irwin Stockfeeds: Mitch Carson
Garnaut Private Wealth: Jesse McDonald
Finley RSC: Spencer Hawkins
O’Connors Case: Cruz Nash
Eagle i Machinery: Levi Webster
Reserves
A heartbreaking one-point loss in a hard-fought contest against Echuca United, but plenty of positives to take away.
Best on Ground goes to Jack Miley, who made a sensational debut in his first ever game of AFL – not only impressing with his composure and effort around the ground but also kicking a cracking goal that easily took out Play of the Day!
Other standout performers included Jimmy Ford, Mitch Hawkins, Noah Iddles, Cam Isedale, and Sam Price, who all battled hard and kept us in the game right to the final siren.
A massive thank you to the four 3rds players who stepped up and doubled up for us – Harry Daniel, Jeremy Doolan, Cooper Sutton, and Jackson Tooke – absolute legends and a huge help on the day.
A special shoutout and big congratulations to Jake Smith, who also played his first game and performed well under pressure. Exciting future ahead!
We’ll regroup, learn, and bounce back stronger after the bye.
Final Scores: Finley 5.6.36 lost to Echuca United 5.7.37
Goals
James Kennedy 2, James Ford 1, Jonty King 1, Jack Miley 1
Best Players
Jack Miley, James Ford, Mitchell Hawkins, Harry Daniel, Noah Iddles, Cam Isedale
Awards
Haynes Butchery: Jack Miley
Finley Quality Meats: Noah Iddles
MC Herd: James Ford
Finley IGA: Harry Daniel
WD & AJ Lang: Cam Isedale
U17’s
The 3rds came up against an Echuca United side keen to stay in touch with the top 6. In the opening stanza the boys contested well but unfortunately, we just couldn’t quite hit the scoreboard. The start of the 2nd quarter though, we converted straight away with a great goal from the much-improved Tom White. The 3rd quarter was much like the 1st with a competitive performance, but the scoreboard just wasn’t going our way. The team continued to play well right to the final siren with Harry Daniel spoiling himself with a great long-range goal and then putting in a massive defensive effort for teammate Ben Rourke to get on the end of the ball and kick himself a goal. Impressive performances on the day whereby captain Daniel, with his never quit attitude, continuing to collect possessions all day. Ash Hines was moved Forward this week and played his best game for the year launching at the ball in the air and on the ground which was great to see. Pete Everingham, Ben Rourke and Logan Presley showed great signs throughout the game and continue to improve. Sam Hurlston was also in everything and shows a great future. The boys will hit the bye and look forward to a big game against Congupna.
Final Scores: Finley 3.1.19 lost to Echuca United 12.10.82
Goals
Harry Daniel 1, Tom White 1, Ben Rourke 1
Best Players
Ash Hines, Harry Daniel, Cooper Sutton, Sam Hurlston, Peter Everingham, Ben Rourke
Awards
Boomerang Motors Most Courageous Cat: Ash Hines
Ross & Sarah: Ben Rourke
Finley Bakery: Peter Everingham
Tuppal Dairy: Sam Hurlston
Manix Bulk Fuels: Logan Peasley
U14’s
This week, Finley hosted Echuca United at home in what was anticipated to be a strong follow-up to last week’s impressive victory. The team entered the match with high confidence, but Echuca came out with intensity from the first bounce, catching us off guard and taking early control of the game.
Despite several opportunities, we were unable to convert in the initial stages, which left us chasing momentum throughout the match. While the result didn’t fall our way, there were several standout individual performances that show promising signs for the group’s continued development.
Samual Hay led from the front, courageously putting his body on the line all day. He was well supported by Joel Fitzell, Josiah Everingham, Prince Edgar Jangao, and Dominic Kelly, all contributing strongly across the ground. Angus Urquhart made a significant impact in the second half off half-back, reading the play well and using his pace and footy IQ to rebound effectively. Down back, Tommy Bain and Ollie Flintoft stood tall, providing a solid defensive presence under pressure.
Ultimately, our inability to maintain consistent effort across all four quarters proved costly. However, there were plenty of positives to take from the performance. With a bye this week, the focus shifts to regrouping and returning stronger in the next round.
Final Scores: Finley 2.2.14 lost to Echuca United 2.3.15
Goals
Sam White 1, Josiah Everingham 1
Best Players
Joel Fitzell, Samuel Hay, Angus Urquhart, Josiah Everingham, Edgar Jangao, Dom Kelly
Awards
Pether Ag: Joel Fitzell
Clarke Family: Samuel Hay
Bauer Family: Angus Urquhart
Southern Riverina Livestock Transport: Josiah Everingham
Lucas McCaw Award: Edgar Jangao
U12’s
Finley Under 12s dominated under the Friday night lights with a strong win over the Hoppers, keeping them to just 1 point for the game, with only 9 players this week!
From the first bounce, Finley was switched on. The midfield worked hard, the backline was rock-solid, and the forwards took their chances. Everyone helped build momentum early, and the pressure never let up.
The Hoppers couldn’t break through Finley’s defence, while our team kept linking up, tackling hard, and playing smart footy.
Final Scores: Finley 23.20.158 def Hoppers 0.1.1
Goals:
Harvey Massina 5, Oli Taylor 5, Flynn Rourke 3, Kody Hamann 2, Zander Fleming 2, Jake Arthur 2, Levi Jakeman 2, Colby Price 1, Lincoln Price 1
Awards
FFNC Canteen: Flynn Rourke
FFNC Canteen: Oli Taylor
Nutrien Footy: Kody Hamann
U10’s
The Under 10s hit the road to take on Nathalia this week. With a few players away, it meant everyone got heaps of touches and a chance to get right into the game. Awesome to see such an effective team effort from everyone.
Camilla and Ruby were once again tackling machines. Big thanks to Tilly and Jimmy Fuller for jumping in and helping us out.
Awards
FFNC Canteen: Caleb Kennedy
FFNC Canteen: Max Valance
NETBALL
UNDER 11s
no score
The under 11 team displayed great teamwork up and down each end of the court, showcasing skilful plays and versatility between players in all aspects of netball. They worked beautifully as a team, and it is evident that what they are learning at training is being shown on the court.
FFNC bakery award - Scarlet Pyle
FFNC canteen voucher- Camilla Massina
UNDER 13s
Finley 5 def by Echuca 35
A tough game for the girls! They are working well as a team and proved in the 1st quarter they have the ability to match the game play with the top teams. Lots of improvement happening in the 13s which is rewarding to see.
Purtill Award: Grace Mullar
Vicky Smith Award: Rori dean
UNDER 15s
Finley 15 def by Echuca 31
Finley started strong in a close first half, but Echuca United’s defensive pressure proved too tough to break in the second. It just wasn’t our day in terms of getting the goals in! All the girls were working hard but simple errors led to falling behind.
Addie was outstanding in defence, protecting the post and grabbing every rebound. Amber worked tirelessly through the centre, providing safe and reliable options going forward.
A solid team effort with plenty to build on for next game!
FNC Canteen - Addie Baker
FNC Canteen - Amber Lawlor
UNDER 17s
Finley: 36 Echuca:65
Finley had a hard match against Echuca. It was a good start from the cats with strength at both ends of the court. After the first quarter the score was 12 Finley and 11 Echuca. During this quarter, the girls showed their improvement during the season so far, and our potential as a team. In the second quarter, Finley went down by 8, as Echuca demonstrated their mental strength and their flexible bench. In the third quarter, we made changes to combat the dominance of the Echuca attack, however despite our best efforts this risk did not pay off for Cats going down by another 9 goals. Echuca showcased how strong the junior netball league is and the improvements our team need to make to be better prepared later in the season.
Essential Hair, Best on Court was awarded to Remi for her skillful use of space down the court and her positive attitude the entirety of game. The Bakery Coaches Award was awarded to Pip for her coachability and her effort during the whole game.
A Grade
Finley 49 def by Echuca 64
Was a lovely day for netball with the sun shining bright. The girls played well again and gave Echuca a scare to half time. A few errors cost us on the score board, but they all continued to work on the things we have been doing at training. Was great to see them trying a new defence throw in we have been working on which ended up in a goal. This group of ladies have a great belief in each other and with a little more consistency during each quarter they will be even stronger.
Hayley was great under pressure again shooting high percentages and some great long-range shots. Her effort this weekend saw her come away with BOC.
The players now choose a players player award as too who they think played well and this week it went to Kate.
Great game again ladies, keep training hard and the rewards will come. Enjoy this week off, rest up and come back after the bye firing.
BOC - Hayley Denny
Players Choice - Kate Purtill
B Grade
Finley 30 def by Echuca 52
Another great game from the girls today, unfortunately not the end score we were looking for but definitely lots of positives to take away. Our first half of the game we stayed competitive going goal for goal with Echuca. Had a great combo in the ring between Leah, Rene and Addi mixture of strong holds and speed. They were able to work with each other and adapt quickly to who they were working with; definitely great to see. Well done to Gemma and Charlotte and Nicola in defence all three creating multiple turnovers consistently through each quarter. Ash and Miranda were able to create space and bring the ball down the court, trying to capitalise on turnovers our defence created. However, Echuca were just too good for us yesterday getting a jump on us in the third quarter we couldn’t close the gap. Finley had a lot of positives to take away and learn from in hopes of pursuing a promising finals appearance.
Awards BOC Finley Country Club Gemma Plattfuss
Coaches Finley RSC award Nicola Denny
C Grade
Finley 27 def by Echuca 65
We came up against a very well drilled and slick Echuca team this week and it showed on the scoreboard at the final whistle.
There were some great passages of play but unfortunately mistake and turnover let us down.
Irwin Stockfeed Best on Court went to Shannon Peasley who made a great return to the court with her experience and strong feeding to the shooters.
There Girls Homewares award went to Nicole who has welcomed her change to wing defence with great defensive pressure.
C Res
Finley 15 def by Echuca 47
Despite our loss we, as a team, showed great resilience; using what we train for with big arms and sticking to our lanes. We had some great passages of play,
BOC Eagle I Machinery - Stacey Dolan for keeping tight defensive pressure on her opponent all game
Coaches’ Three Girls Homewares Award - Kasey Dwyer for being versatile at both ends of the court.