Round Preview - CMFNL

BALRANALD will be aiming to lift the Central Murray FNL senior footy premiership cup for the first time since 2009 when it tackles Kerang in Saturday’s grand final at Swan Hill Recreation Reserve.

The showdown of the Kangaroos and Blues in the Radio 3SH-sponsored competition starts at 2.45pm.

An unbeaten run by Kerang was broken when Balranald dominated the second semi-final.

A Kangaroos’ attack led by Ben Fuller and Drew Lloyd on four goals, and Jack Betts medallist Jydon Neagle with three charged to a 115-65 victory.

Balranald won every quarter as Matthew Neagle, Kobe Lloyd, Harrison Soraggi and Ryan Middlebrook were best.

The Blues’ attack was led by Tyson Clingan, coach Troy Coates and Caleb Nitschke on two.

Best for Kerang in that contest were Sean and Josh Hunter, Ryan Gillingham and Tyson Clingan.

Victory in the second semi followed Balranald’s seven-point triumph in the qualifying final against Woorinen.

In pursuit of back-to-back premierships and its 10th in the Central Murray, Kerang hit back to win the preliminary final against Nyah Nyah West United Demons by 81 points.

Both matches between Balranald and Kerang in the home-and-away series were closely-fought.

Kerang won the round six clash at Riverside Park by eight points.

The Blues marked a 94-86 victory at Balranald’s Greenham Park in the 17th round.

Key match-ups in the grand final include the ruck where Jordan Wilkins takes on Kerang’s Nick Lang who joined the Blues after an outstanding career with Kangaroo Flat.

Balranald’s defence led by Toby Lay, Jaxon Neagle and Jack Salau is up against Adam Hunter, Michael Dalrymple and Troy Coates.

The Kangaroos have Ben Fuller, Drew Lloyd and Jydon Neagle as targets in defence.

Massive test for Blues’ defenders Troy Davis, Sam Heavyside, Josh Hunter and Jesse Clark.

In the on-ball duels the Roos will look to Colin Andrews, Ethan Gant and Ryan Middlebrook against the experienced Martin Kelly, Josh Nitschke and Sean Hunter.

Balranald:

B: Jack Jones, Toby Lay, Harrison Soraggi.

HB: Jack Salau, Jaxon Neagle, Matthew Neagle.

C: Ian Fuller, Colin Andrews, Kobe Lloyd.

HF: Jarryd Stead, Drew Lloyd, Seth Connell.

F: Jydon Neagle, Ben Fuller, Leyland Brougham.

Foll: Jordan Wilkins, Ryan Middlebrook, Ethan Gant.

Inter: Rory Fitzgerald, Jack Helgeland, Ned Lay, Tom Salau.

Kerang:

B: Jesse Clark, Troy Davis, Gregor Knight.

HB: Sam Heavyside, Josh Hunter, Lachlan Ross.

C: Hayden Hall, Josh Nitschke, Ryan Gillingham.

HF: Josh Hann, Michael Dalrymple, Troy Coates.

F: Rylee Smith, Adam Hunter, Bradlee Pay.

Foll: Nick Lang, Martin Kelly, Sean Hunter.

Inter: Tyson Clingan, Ashley Davis, Liam Jardine, Caleb Nitschke.

Having fought from an elimination final, Lake Boga takes on Kerang in the reserves grand final at 12.30pm.

These teams met just once in the home-and-away series where Kerang won 50-37 at Lake Boga Sports Club in the ninth round.

The Blues won the second semi-final against Woorinen by eight goals.

A great run by Lake Boga began with a 53-point victory against Mallee Eagles in the elimination final.

Since then the Magpies have soared to wins against Nyah Nyah West United in the first semi, and Woorinen in the preliminary final.

Players to watch for Kerang include Rylee Gitsham, Laine Harry, captain Jotham Higgs, Cody Makeham and Cody Tuohey.

Stars in Lake Boga’s run have included Kyle Brawn, Patrick Bryan, Nelson Ibbs, Shannon O’Reilly and Tobie Richardson.

Kerang:

B: Laine Harry, Lachlan Hall, Tom Dunham.

HB: Ethan McKnight, Jonathon Roberts, Cody Makeham.

C: Nicholas Murray, Cody Tuohey, Logan Tuohey.

HF: Kyle Franzini, Jonah McKnight, Harrison Saunders.

F: Jotham Higgs, Michael Runciman, Alex Lloyd.

Foll: Rylee Gitsham, Jordan McNeil, Nicholas Pay

Inter: Josh Free, Samuel Nitschke, Brodie Meehan, Jordan Clingan

Lake Boga:

B: Patrick Storer, Dylan McCosh, Daniel Haines.

HB: Nelson Ibbs, Taylor Johnstone, Jayden Trebilcock.

C: Noah Sherlock, Kyle Brawn, Gary Goodes.

HF: Byron Holt, Patrick Bryan, Xander Hartland.

F: Shannon O’Reilly, Oliver Rohde, Brody Palmer.

Foll: Hunter Hartland, Tobie Richardson, Mitchell Whitfield.

Inter: Samuel Baber, Jake Hepburn, Nash McDonald, Nicholas Higginbottom.

The rising stars from Woorinen and Lake Boga clash in the Colts play-off at 10.45am.

Woorinen won both matches in the home-and-away series by margins of 40 and six points in round six and 17.

Lake Boga featured on day one of the finals series when it was beaten in the qualifying final by Kerang by 13 points.

The Tigers beat Kerang in the second semi by 33 points.

Lake Boga won a hard-fought first semi against Swan Hill, 43-39, and dominated last Saturday’s preliminary final against Kerang to beat the Blues by nine goals.

Woorinen:

B: Hudson Garner, Cooper Beasley, Oscar Holland.

HB: Noah Starrs, Otto Conlan, Oscar Thornton.

C: Liam Edwards, Xavier Johnson, Brooklyn Whitla.

HF: Juan Kruger, Shaun Kirby, Rayden Garner.

F: Harper Holland, Hugh Thompson, Adam Saunders.

Foll: Tahj Bolton, Charlie King, William Rush.

Inter: Lachlan Bedggood, Blake Mazzarella, Jed Young, Tyson Zucco.

Lake Boga:

B: Noah Noble, Parker Tonkin, Willem Pye.

Hb: Zac Palmer, Dustin Holmes, Xavier Sherlock.

C: Harry Bryan, Ryan Harvey, Cooper Doolan.

Hf: Rylan Barnes, Nicholas Taylor, Bodi Clune.

F: Koben Ryan, Charlie Bryan, Ned Ayson.

Foll: Kai Everett, Harrison Bull, Blaizeee Parsons.

Inter: Patrick Dear, Iszac Green, Kelly Mulligan, Macca Neil, Gus Tonkin.

Grand final day kicks off at 8.50am when Lake Boga plays Tooleybuc Manangatang in the Mildura Health Fund-sponsored under-14 ½ grand final.

The grand finalists met in the second semi where Lake Boga marked a 54-37 victory.

Previous meeting was the 11th round where Lake Boga won 30-10 on home turf.

The finals campaign for the Saints from Tooleybuc Manangatang began with a 41-15 victory against Kerang in the qualifying final.

After defeat in the second semi the Saints struck back for a 94-point win against Kerang in the preliminary final on the Tooleybuc ground.

Lake Boga:

B: Victor Lazarou, Bailey Ray, Harrison Brown.

HB: Joel Schneider, Bryce Anderson, Reef Mulligan.

C: Jake Steer, Max O’Reilly, Lucas O’Reilly.

HF: Rory Davies, Connor Frazzica, Kye Fleming.

F: Flynn Barnes, Lachlan Bull, Jarra Kelly.

Foll: Archer Hartland, Maximus Caruso, Willem Holmes.

Inter: Vin Mobilio, Cassidy Dunn, Elijah Ray, Tait Colville, Ryka Klomp, Axel Kirsten, Matthew Haines

Tooleybuc Manangatang:

B: Kruz Hazlett, Jude Atkinson, Billy Kentish.

HB: Callum Muir, Charlie Elford, Morgan Ryder.

C: Jedd Morris, Rydar Morris, Ryan Fraser.

HF: Julian Muir, Cooper Plant, Jasper Plant.

F: Oliver Spinks, Connor Hazlett, Noah Perry-Atkins.

Foll: Zachary Lehner, Jacob Zanker, Campbell Fisher.

Inter: Riley Hughes, Aidan Plant, Mason Forster, Jakson Turvey, Travis Ballam-Bruton.

VITAL MATCH TO BE PLAYED ON SWAN HILL’S TURF

A SHOWDOWN between Swan Hill and Lake Boga is one of several highlights in this Saturday’s 10th round of senior footy in the Central Murray FNL season.

Separated by four points it’s a massive test for the fifth-placed Swans and seventh-placed Magpies.

Another big game will be at Manangatang where the Saints will mark their second win of the season, or Koondrook Barham it’s first.

At Swan Hill Recreation Reserve the Swans will aim to achieve win number six and gain an eight-point break on the Pies.

Key players for Swan Hill include Toby Thoolen in the ruck, rover Matt Wade, Elijah and Jose Miliado and Brandon Houlihan.

If match-up happens as named, Swans half-forward Sonny Beasy will play a crucial role in trying to stop the run and superb disposal of former Essendon and Port Adelaide player Angus Monfries.

A talented line-up from Lake Boga includes Tyle Williams in the centre, David Gourdis and Jayden Lonergan in attack, ruckman Jacob Simpson, rover Darby Hayes, and Marty Parsons at full-back.

The Demons from Nyah Nyah West United will aim to keep the heat on the top five by beating Balranald.

It’s a huge task for the sixth-placed NNWU up against the second-placed Balranald.

In last week’s play, Hassan Ahmat-Watkins kicked nine goals in the Demons win against Tyntynder at Swan Hill’s Alan Garden Reserve.

Players to watch in the red and blue include Charlie Boulton at half-forward, rover Jarrod Stokes, Riley Daniels in the centre, Ethan Curran on a wing, Joel Campbell and Joel Walsh in defence.

It’s been a terrific run by the Balranald Kangaroos whose only defeat was to the unbeaten Kerang.

A key match-up for the Roos will be at full-back where Josh Hodgson was named.

A talented Balranald team includes Jason, Jydon and Matt Neagle, Ethan Gant, ruckman Jordan Wilkins, Nathan Ablett and Ben Fuller.

The Saints and River Raiders will eye a great chance to break their winless run.

Tooleybuc Manangatang has not won since a 114-43 triumph on Swan Hill’s turf in round two.

A highlight of this match will be in the ruck where Tim Auckland is up against Koondrook Barham gun recruit Mitch Christensen.

Key players for the Saints include Ryan Domaille, Blake Grant, Jack Mazzarella, Alex Powell and John Wardle.

Koondrook Barham will look to centreman Chester Gardner, Colin McVeigh, Eli Boyd, Jordan and Ryan Bassett to lead the way to a long-awaited victory.

Cohuna Kangas are at home to take on Tyntynder.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Kangas may have too much attacking power for Tyntynder to hold.

Cohuna’s forward line includes Brenton Conforti, Jarrod Findlay and Rhys Free.

A strong on-ball division includes Joel Helman as ruck-rover and Sam McGlone as rover.

Other key players for the Kangas are Tom Metherell and Will Thrum off the half-back line.

Tyntynder will look to compete strongly at stoppages through Hugh Broad in the ruck, and Patrick Crowe, Mick Dedini and Zac Denham at ground level.

The Bulldogs have Wilhelm Hawkins, Elia Ware and Liam Whelan in attack.

Mallee Eagles are at home at Lalbert to take on Woorinen.

Massive test for the ninth-placed Mallee against the third-placed Tigers.

An Eagles’ defence that includes Joe Halloran, Clinton Cummins, Zac O’Meara and Shaun Harrison is up against Will Collicoat, Doug Beames, Thomas Isma and Matt Gardner.

Mallee’s chances will rest greatly on the play of on-ballers Angus McKenzie, Beau Bennett and Darcy McGregor.

A strong Woorinen line-up includes Josh Domaille, Robbie Miller, Jye Barry and Mitchell Uhlhorn.

Kerang has the bye.

TWO MOBS OF KANGAROOS CLASH AT BALRANALD FOR NAIDOC ROUND!

MOBS of Kangaroos from Balranald and Cohuna will meet in Saturday’s 11th round of senior footy in the Central Murray FNL season.

It’s an all-Kangaroos showdown from 2.30pm at Balranald’s Greenham Park as the 3SH-backed competition resumes after the league’s general bye.

The Balranald Kangaroos have achieved an 8-1 record to be second in the premiership race.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Cohuna Kangas are fourth on a 6-3 record.

In round 10, Balranald marked a 37-point win against Nyah Nyah West United at Nyah.

Drew and Kobe Lloyd, Jaxon Neagle and Harrison Sorragi were the Roos’ best in that match.

A strong team from Balranald includes Jordan Wilkins in the ruck, Rory Fitzgerald and Ben Fuller in attack, Jydon Neagle and Toby Lay in defence.

Cohuna won its latest hit-out against Tyntynder by 31 points.

The Kangas gain plenty of drive from on-ballers Sam McGlone and Joel Helman, and also from Tom Metherell and Will Thrum off the half-back line.

A Cohuna attack that includes Rhys Free, Jarrod Findlay and former Elmore coach Dylan Friedberger will test Balranald.

There are several matches that have a major bearing on the make-up of the top five.

The third-placed Woorinen is at home to take on the seventh-placed Nyah Nyah West United.

A 63-point win by Woorinen against Mallee Eagles last round gave the Tigers a 7-2 record.

On that day the Tigers charged to a 45-nil lead by quarter-time as Henry Thompson, Will Collicoat, Matthew Gardner and Josh Domaille were best for the yellow and black.

Nyah Nyah West United is seventh on a 4-5 record, but only a win behind the fifth-placed Lake Boga.

The Demons will need a couple of upset wins to force their way into the finals.

Alex Erlandson, Joel Campbell, Jarrod Skinner and Dean Harrop played well against Balranald last round.

The Demons squad to play the Tigers includes Charlie and Oliver Boulton, Nic and Zack Threadgold, and Riley Daniels.

It’s been an extended break for the unbeaten Kerang which had the bye in round 10.

The Troy Coates-coached Blues are back at Kerang’s Riverside Park to take on Swan Hill.

A 5-4 record has the Swans in sixth place and fighting to take Lake Boga’s place in the five.

Swan Hill was beaten in the round 10 showdown with Lake Boga by 10 goals.

Key players for the Swans include wingmen Adam Manning and Tom Holdstock, Jose Miliado in the centre, Xavier Moloney at half-back, and rover Matt Wade.

Swan Hill will also need big games from the likes of ruckman Toby Thoolen, ruck-rover Elijah Miliado, and Kallen Heslop and Zach Mihoeck in attack.

Tough task for Swan Hill against the reigning premiers who have the experience and skill of Michael Dalrymple, Martin Kelly and Lachlan Ross.

Other players to watch for the Blues include captain Josh Nitschke, Josh Hann, Sam Heavyside, and ruckman Nick Lang in his first match for many weeks.

Lake Boga is at home to take on Tooleybuc Manangatang.

The Magpies slammed on 10.7 to a goal in the last term to complete a 136-76 victory at Swan Hill last round.

Lake Boga’s best in that contest were Lochie Laing, Jayden Lonergan, David Gourdis and Jacob Simpson.

A win could give the Pies a decisive break on their nearest rivals.

Lake Boga’s team to take on the Saints includes former Essendon and Port Adelaide mid/forward Angus Monfries, Matt Taverna at centre half-back, Ryan Fox on a wing, and Ricky Wild at half-forward.

Tooleybuc Manangatang beat Koondrook Barham by seven goals in the 10th round as Blake Grant, Jack Mazzarella, Connor McDonald and Ethan Goldfinch led the way.

The Saints will need strong defensive games from the likes of John and Richard Wardle, Shane Foley and Shayne Goldfinch.

Koondrook Barham is at home to play Mallee Eagles.

The River Raiders will be keen to seize the opportunity to break their winless run against an Eagles line-up which has had two wins this season.

Key players for Koondrook Barham include ruckman Mitch Christensen, Regan Hamilton at full-back, Jack Shannon and Scott Wood across the half-back line.

The River Raiders also have Colin McVeigh as ruck-rover, and Chester Gardner in the centre.

It was a tough hit-out for the Eagles against Woorinen at Lalbert.

Mallee’s best in that match were Shaun Harrison, Brent Macleod, Zac O’Meara and Paul Davis.

The Eagles will also look to ruckman Angus McKenzie, ruck-rover Brent McLeod, rover Beau Bennett and Harry Allen in the centre to win their fair share of contests.

Tyntynder has the bye.

NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians all over the country and overseas.

This year, the Central Murray are proud to be involved in NAIDOC Week celebrations, through our annual NAIDOC Round, with all of our clubs wearing specially designed apparel this weekend.

The Central Murray and Golden Rivers Football Netball Leagues acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community.

In particular, we recognize the traditional ownership of the lands on which we compete today, and throughout the season.

We pay our respect to elders’ past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

We encourage the ongoing commitment to fostering positive connections with First Nations people and commend all those involved in the 2023 NAIDOC Week for highlighting the cultural significance of Indigenous artwork and it’s connection to storytelling in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

We also thank all the local artists who have donated their time and talent to bringing the Central Murray and Golden Rivers NAIDOC Round alive.

DEMONS FIRE UP TO FACE MAGPIES AT NYAH

SEPARATED by a point last time they met, Nyah Nyah West United and Lake Boga clash in Saturday’s 12^th round of the Central Murray FNL’s senior footy action.

The NNWU Demons are on home turf at Nyah to tackle the Magpies.

In round two it was Lake Boga which held on for a 65-64 victory.

Lake Boga goes into this match in fourth place on a 6-4 record.

The Demons are seventh on a 4-6 tally, so it’s a crucial match in determining whether NNWU can qualify for the finals series.

In last Saturday’s play, NNWU was beaten at Woorinen by 19 points.

Lake Boga dominated its home game against Tooleybuc Manangatang to record a 102-25 victory.

Key players for Nyah Nyah West United include Hassan Ahmat-Watkins, Charlie Boulton and Riley Daniels in attack, Brayden Bigham and Ethan Curran on the wings.

The Demons also have ruckman Joel Campbell and Joel Walsh in defence, and Jarrod Stokes.

Best for the Magpies in their win against the Saints included Lincoln Sieben and Lachlan Burns.

Lake Boga’s line-up includes former Essendon and Port Adelaide forward/midfielder Angus Monfries, David Gourdis in attack, Ryan Fox, Matt Taverna and Ricky Wild.

Refreshed by the bye, Tyntynder takes on Woorinen at Alan Garden Reserve in Swan Hill.

In round two the Tigers roared to a 113-point victory against the Bulldogs at Woorinen.

An 8-2 record has Woorinen in third place in the premiership race.

Tyntynder’s is ninth on a 2-8 record.

Key players for the Bulldogs include captain Elia Ware, Matt Gilbee across the half-back line, Mick Dedini on a wing, Matt Corney, Cayden and Patrick Crowe.

The aptly-named Jason Eagle can also soar for a mark or two in attack.

Latest hit-out for Woorinen ended in a 19-point win against the NNWU Demons.

Players to watch in the yellow and black include Jye Barry in the centre, Doug Beames and Will Collicoat in attack, ruck-rover Josh Domaille.

The Tigers also have Danko Bzenic, Lachlan Gardner and Robbie Miller.

Mallee Eagles take on the unbeaten Kerang at Lalbert.

In round two the Blues thrashed the Eagles by 161 points at Kerang’s Riverside Park.

Mallee will be determined to put in a much stronger showing this time.

The Troy Coates-coached Kerang won last Saturday’s hard-fought clash with Swan Hill by just 16 points.

Key players for the Blues include rover Sam Heavyside, captain  Josh Nitschke in the centre, and Lachlan Ross.

The Blues also have former Kangaroo Flat ruckman Nic Lang, Sam Nitschke at centre half-forward, Ashley Davis and Liam Jardine in defence.

Mallee played well to mark a 70-point win against Koondrook Barham at Barham last round.

Best for the Eagles in that match were Darcy McGregor, Beau Bennett, Brent Macleod and Angus McKenzie.

Mallee will also look for big games from the likes of Paul Davis and Andrew McDonald in attack, Braiden Bennett, Matt Despott and Harry McGregor in defence.

The Cohuna Kangas are at home to take on Koondrook Barham.

Previous meeting between these clubs ended in a 73-point win for the Kangas.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Kangas are on the rebound from a 43-point loss at Balranald.

A 6-4 record has Cohuna in fifth place on the ladder.

Key players for Cohuna include ruckman Nathah Hammond, Jake Hammond at centre half-back, Mitchell Treacy in the centre, and ruck-rover Sam McGlone.

The Kangas also have the experience of Dylan Friedberger, Jarrod Findlay, Tom Metherell and Luke Conca.

It’s been a tough run for Koondrook Barham as it tries to break its season duck.

Best for the River Raiders in last Saturday’s match against Mallee Eagles were Mitch Christensen, Will Lake, Corey Barrington and Eli Boyd.

The River Raiders will look to Colin McVeigh, Patrick Goble, Scott Wood and Chester Gardner to win a fair share of contests.

Tooleybuc Manangatang takes on Swan Hill at Tooleybuc.

In round two the Saints beat the Swans by 71 points at Swan Hill.

Key players for Tooleybuc Manangatang include Ryan Domaille at centre half-back, Ethan Goldfinch in the centre, Blake Grant and Jack Mazzarella.

The Saints were held to just three goals at Lake Boga last round.

The play of Tim Auckland in the ruck, Josh Williams and Connor McDonald in attack will be crucial to Tooleybuc-Manangatang’s chances.

Sixth on a 5-5 record, Swan Hill must win to keep the heat on the fourth and fifth-placed Lake Boga and Cohuna.

The Swans fought back from a 26-point deficit at quarter-time to finish within 16 points of Kerang last Saturday.

Players to watch for Swan Hill include Tom Holdstock at half-back, ruck-rover Matt Wade, and ruckman Toby Thoolen.

The Swans also have the leadership of Luke Phelan, and a quality attack that includes Sonny Beasy, Elijah and Jose Miliado.

Balranald has the bye.

TIGERS CHASE KANGAS AT WOORINEN

WOORINEN Tigers will chase the Cohuna Kangas in Saturday’s 13th round of senior footy in the Central Murray FNL season.

It’s second against fourth in the 3SH-backed competition.

When these clubs met on Good Friday it was Woorinen which won the season opener by 45 points at Cohuna.

The Tigers and Kangas won their latest hit-outs by comfortable margins.

Among the key match-ups in this contest will be in the centre where the Tigers have Robbie Miller to take on Joel Helman.

Woorinen’s on-ball division of Lachlan Gardner, Jye Barry and Josh Domaille faces Chris Anderson, Sam McGlone and Luke Conca.

Other key players for the yellow and black are Danko Bzenic and Will Collicoat in attack, Doug Beames and Mitchell Uhlhorn in defence.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Cohuna has Jake and Nathan Hammond teaming up with Will Thrum across the half-back line.

Cohuna will also need big games from the likes of Jarrod Findlay, Rhys Free and Mitchell Treacy.

Lake Boga is on home turf to play Mallee Eagles.

In round one the Magpies soared to a 32-point win at Lalbert.

Lake Boga will be desperate to bounce back from a 47-point loss to Nyah.

Key players for the Magpies include Lochie Laing at centre half-back, Angus Monfries and Matt Taverna at half-back, and Tyle Williams in the centre.

Lake Boga’s line-up includes David Gourdis, Jayden Lonergan and Jacob Simpson.

The chances for Mallee rest greatly on Harry McGregor at centre half-back, Beau Bennett and Harrison Allen in attack, and on-ballers Brent Macleod and Darcy McGregor.

Koondrook Barham tackles Nyah Nyah West United at Barham.

Tough task for the River Raiders against an NNWU team fighting to gain a place in the top five.

Koondrook Barham’s best in last week’s loss at Cohuna were Colin McVeigh, Will Lake and Ash Molin.

The Raiders will also look to Scott Wood, Mitch Christensen, Reagan Hamilton and captain Patrick Goble to compete strongly.

Unbeaten and on top of the ladder, Kerang is back home at Riverside Park to play Tooleybuc Manangatang.

In round one the Blues won at Tooleybuc by 75 points.

In-form players for Kerang include rover Sam Heavyside, Ashley Davis at centre half-back, and Sean Hunter on a back flank.

A talented line-up for the Blues also has coach Troy Coates and ruckman/forward Nick Lang in attack, captain Josh Nitschke in the centre, and Josh Hunter at full-back.

The Saints are on the rebound from an 82-point loss to Swan Hill.

Tooleybuc Manangatang has Connor McDonald and Kallum Hazlett as key players in attack.

The Saints will need big games from the likes of rover Tom Carland, ruck-rover Blake Grant, centreman Ethan Goldfinch, and defenders Jaicob Kenny and Shayne Goldfinch to challenge the Blues.

Balranald is back in action after the bye to play Tyntynder at Balranald’s Greenham Park.

The Kangaroos have played superb football to be third in the premiership race on a 9-1 record.

In round one, Balranald beat Tyntynder by 28 points at Swan Hill’s Alan Garden Reserve.

Balranald’s best in its latest hit-out against Cohuna were Colin Andrews, Jydon Neagle and Ryan Middlebrook.

The Roos line-up to take on the Bulldogs includes Ned Lay and Ian Fuller on the wings, rover Ethan Gant, and Drew Lloyd and Ben Fuller in attack.

Balranald also has Jaxon and Matt Neagle across the half-back line.

Tyntynder will look to Josh Stone, Patrick Blake, Justin Ellis, Elia Ware, Matt Gilbee, Harry Simpson and Isaiah Bull to lead the charge to an upset victory.

Swan Hill has the bye.

TIGERS TACKLE BALRANALD AT WOORINEN

A SHOWDOWN between Woorinen and Balranald highlights this Saturday’s 14th round of senior footy in the Central Murray FNL season.

The Tigers and Kangaroos feature in the match of the day in the 3SH-backed competition at Woorinen from 2.30pm.

It’s a likely prelude to a qualifying final as both teams are locked on 40 points and hold second and third place in the premiership race.

When these clubs met in round three it was Balranald which scored a 77-61 victory on its turf at Greenham Park.

The Tigers and Roos carry winning form into this round.

Woorinen one of the games of the season last Saturday as it fought to claim a two-point win at home against Cohuna Kangas.

Will Collicoat and Danko Bzenic will play key roles in the Tigers’ attack, along with Ben Hunt and Daniel Mase.

Best for the yellow and black against Cohuna included ruck-rover Jye Barry, wingman Taylor Cameron, rover Josh Domaille, and Dylan Godwin across the half-back line.

Major threat to Woorinen’s hopes will be Ben Fuller who kicked eight goals in Balranald’s latest win against Tyntynder.

A strong attack for the Kangaroos includes Matt Neagle and Jordan Wilkins.

Players to watch for Balranald include Ethan Gant, Toby Lay, Ryan Middlebrook and Jydon Neagle.

Refreshed by the bye, Swan Hill is at home to take on Mallee Eagles.

The Swans beat the Eagles by 13 points at Lalbert in round three.

A 6-5 record has Swan Hill in seventh place on the ladder.

Best in an 82-point win against Tooleybuc Manangatang in the 12th round were Brenton  Halligan, Luke Phelan and Xavier Moloney.

An attack led by Kallen Heslop, Zach Mihocek and Jose Miliado will test the Eagles.

The Swans have a strong on-ball division of Toby Thoolen, Matt Wade and Brandon Houlihan.

Held to a goal in the second half at Lake Boga last round, Mallee will be keen to hit back.

Best for the Eagles against the Magpies included Beau Bennett, Josh Bibby, Harry McGregor and Zac O’Meara.

Big roles for Mallee’s Angus McKenzie in the ruck, Harrison Allen in the centre, Paul Davis and Brent Macleod in attack.

Kerang faces Nyah Nyah West United at Kerang’s Riverside Park.

The Blues will be wary against a Demons line-up which is a win away from the fourth and fifth-placed Lake Boga and Cohuna.

In round three, Kerang won at Nyah by 51 points.

Kerang dominated last Saturday’s home game against Tooleybuc Manangatang to win by 166 points.

Bradlee Pay kicked 10 goals against the Saints as Rylee Smith, Josh Nitschke, Jesse Clark, Jordan McNeil and Sam Nitschke joined in the scoring spree.

A powerful Kerang line-up coached by Troy Coates includes Tyson Clingan, Josh Hann, Sam Heavyside, Nick Lang and Josh Hunter.

The Blues’ defence is up against Hassan Ahmat-Watkins who kicked six goals as Nyah Nyah West United thrashed Koondrook Barham at Barham.

The NNWU attack includes Charlie Boulton, Campbell Everitt, Dominic Gallo and Dean Harrop.

Key players for the Demons are Brayden Bigham and Jarrod Skinner in defence, Corey and Riley Daniels, and Matt Gibbs.

Koondrook Barham takes on Tyntynder at Barham.

In round three, Tyntynder marked a 110-point win against the River Raiders.

Tyntynder played well to be within 14 points of Balranald at three quarter-time last round.

The Bulldogs could not stop the Kangaroos surging to a 39-point win.

Players to watch for Tyntynder include Patrick Blake, Josh Dwyer and Justin Ellis in attack, Matt Gilbee at full-back, Josh Stone and Elia Ware.

The Bulldogs have Cayden Crowe and Isaiah Bull in on-ball roles.

Been a tough run for Koondrook Barham all season.

Best for the River Raiders last round included ruck-rover Patrick Goble, ruckman Reagan Hamilton, and Colin McVeigh.

Koondrook Barham will look to rover Eli Boyd, centreman Chester Gardner, and defenders Jordan Bassett, Jack Shannon and Kade Watts to compete well.

It’s a bye for Cohuna, Lake Boga, and Tooleybuc Manangatang.

KANGAS TACKLE UNBEATEN BLUES AT COHUNA

COHUNA Kangas will be aiming to break Kerang’s unbeaten streak in the Central Murray FNL senior footy action this Saturday.

The Kangas and Blues meet in the 15th round of the 3SH-backed competition at Cohuna from 2.30pm.

It’s a rematch of the ’22 grand finalists.

When these clubs last met in round four, Kerang won 96-58 at Riverside Park.

Cohuna is back in action after the bye.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Kangas start the round in fifth place.

A great battle to qualify for the finals involves Lake Boga, Cohuna and Swan Hill all locked on 28 points.

Nyah Nyah West United is a win away in seventh place.

A key to Cohuna’s chances of beating Kerang will be the on-ball and midfield duels.

The Kangas will look to ruckman Chris Anderson, Sam McGlone, Jarrod Findlay and Joel Helman to lead the way.

Targets in Cohuna’s attack include Rhys Free, Dylan Johnstone and Mitch Treacy.

The Troy Coates-coached Blues fought on for a one-point win against Nyah Nyah West United at Kerang last Saturday.

Although it was outscored, 32-16 in the last, Kerang held for an 80-79 victory.

Best in the Blues’ latest win included wingman Hayden Hall, rover Sam Heavyside, Gregor Knight and Josh Hunter in defence.

Players to watch for Kerang include captain Josh Nitschke in the centre, ruckman Nic Lang, Jake and Nathan Hammond, and Bradlee Pay in attack.

Nyah Nyah West United returns to Nyah to take on Swan Hill.

The Demons almost caused the upset of the season last Saturday as Riley and Corey Daniels kicked four and two goals on Kerang’s turf.

Swan Hill marked a 26-point win against Mallee Eagles last round.

It’s another huge match for NNWU as it fights Swan Hill to stay in finals contention.

Previous meeting between these clubs ended in a 32-point win for the Swans.

Among the best for the Demons last round were Ethan Curran, Kayne Davidson, Campbell Everitt and Ethan Saville.

Key forward Hassan Ahmat-Watkins has played some great matches for the Demons.

Ruckman Matt Gibbs will be up against Swans’ star Toby Thoolen.

Other key players for Swan Hill include Leighton Dullard, Jose Miliado, captain Luke Phelan and Matt Wade.

Big test for a Swans’ defence that includes Thomas Corridan, Tom Holdstock, Xavier Moloney and Hamish Robertson.

Tyntynder takes on Lake Boga at Alan Garden Reserve in Swan Hill.

The Tyntynder Bulldogs marked a 17-goal win against Koondrook Barham at Barham last Saturday.

Patrick Blake kicked five goals last round, but was not named for this round.

The Bulldogs will look to Josh Dwyer, Jason Eagle and Wilhelm Hawkins in attack.

Key match-ups for Tyntynder will be Matt Gilbee in the ruck against Jacob Simpson, and Isaiah Bull ruck-roving against Nathaniel Holmes-Brown.

Lake Boga had the bye after a 74-point victory in the 13th round against Mallee Eagles.

In-form players for the Magpies include Lochie Laing, Lincoln Sieben, Matt Taverna and Jake Warren.

Lake Boga’s line-up includes David Gourdis at centre half-forward, Jayden Lonergan and Ricky Wild in attack, and Marty Parsons as a key defender.

Mallee Eagles take on Tooleybuc Manangatang at Lalbert.

In round four the Eagles soared to an eight-goal win at Tooleybuc.

Mallee worked hard in a 49-75 loss at Swan Hill last round.

Best for the Eagles in that contest included Harrison Allen, Wes Bennett, Billy and Zac O’Meara.

Mallee also has Paul Davis at centre half-forward, Angus McKenzie in ruck, Joe Halloran and Harry McGregor as key pillars in defence.

The Saints are back on field after a bye.

In round 13 the Saints were held to a tally of three goals at Kerang.

The Saints will look for big games from the likes of wingman Ryan Domaille, Ethan Goldfinch at half-back, rover Blake Grant and Harrison Maher.

Ben Doolan was named in the ruck for Tooleybuc Manangatang, Tom Carland in the centre, and Rylee Taylor at full-forward.

A red-hot Balranald will be back on home turf at Greenham Park to take on Koondrook Barham.

Last week’s 40-point victory at Woorinen was one of Balranald’s best of the season.

Key players for the Kangaroos include Jaxon Neagle at centre half-back, Jack Salau in a back pocket, and Jack Jones.

An attack that includes Ben Fuller, Drew Lloyd and Nathan Ablett will capitalise on chances created by the likes of Ethan Gant, Colin Andrews, Ryan Middlebrook and Jordan Wilkins.

It’s been a tough run for Koondrook Barham all season.

The River Raiders were outplayed by Tyntynder last round in a contest where Bill Barry, Regan Hamilton, Josh McMahon and Colin McVeigh were among the best for the KB line-up.

This week’s team includes Jordan Bassett and Will Callow as key defenders, Mitch Christensen, Patrick Goble and Jack Thrum.

Woorinen has the bye.

LEAGUE LEADERS CLASH AT BALRANALD

A SHOWDOWN of ladder leaders Kerang and Balranald highlights this Saturday’s 17^th round of senior footy in the Central Murray FNL season.

The clash of the top two in the 3SH-backed competition will be played on the Kangaroos’ ground at Balranald’s Greenham Park from 2.30pm.

When these clubs met in round six, Kerang fought for a 46-38 victory against the Kangaroos on the Blues’ turf at Riverside Park.

The unbeaten Kerang is back in action after a bye.

Balranald is on the rebound from a five-point loss to Lake Boga.

Key targets in the Kangaroos’ attack include Ben Fuller, Jydon and Matt Neagle.

A key to Balranald’s chances will be its work in defence and through midfield.

The Kangaroos will look for big games from the likes of Jake Helgeland, Ned Lay, Drew and Kobe Lloyd, and Jack Salau.

Kerang has kept winning, but only just.

In round 15, Kerang was under fire in the last quarter at Cohuna but was able to claim a nine-point win against the Kangas.

Players to watch in the Troy Coates-coached Blues team include Ryan Gillingham, Sam Heavyside, Martin Kelly, Josh Nitschke and Rylee Smith.

The Blue also have ruckman Nic Lang, and key defenders Troy Davis and Josh Hunter.

Another big match will be at Woorinen where the Tigers face Lake Boga.

It’s third against fourth.

Woorinen did plenty of atacking to score 23 goals in last Saturday’s match against Koondrook Barham, but can expect the pressure to be much higher.

A strong attack for the Tigers includes Will Collicoat, Lachlan and Matt Gardner, Charlie King and Danko Bzenic.

Players to watch for Woorinen include Josh Domaille, Doug Beames, Henry Thompson, Mitchell Uhlhorn and Lachlan Warburton.

A 60-55 win at home against Balranald was arguably Lake Boga’s best performance of the season.

The Magpies will be determined to keep the winning run rolling and also show they learnt plenty from a 45-point loss to Woorinen in the sixth round.

The play of Nathaniel Holmes-Brown, Lincoln Sieben, Ricky Wild and Tyle Williams will be crucial to the Magpies’ chances.

Others to watch for Lake Boga are Jayden Lonergan, Xavier Sherlock and Matt Taverna.

Nyah Nyah West United has home-ground advantage for its showdown with Mallee Eagles .

The Demons have climbed to the fifth rung and cannot afford to slip-up at Nyah as Swan Hill and Cohuna are ready to pounce.

In round six, NNWU beat the Eagles at Lalbert by 62 points.

The Demons won last Saturday’s match against Tooleybuc Manangatang at Manangatang by 19 points.

Ethan Saville kicked two goals in a best afield performance for the red and blue.

Players to watch for NNWU include Hassan Ahmat-Watkins, Brayden Bigham, Joel Campbell, Kayne Davidson, Zack Threadgold and Joel Walsh.

The Demons also have Ethan Curran, Matt Gibbs and Jarrod Stokes capable of winning many contests.

Mallee Eagles had the bye last round.

Most recent hit-out for Mallee ended in a 49-point win at home against Tooleybuc Manangatang.

The Eagles’ attack in that match was led by Brent Macleod and Andrew McDonald on eight and five goals.

Best in Mallee’s fourth win of the season included Beau Bennett, Joe Halloran, Angus McKenzie and Zac O’Meara.

Test for an Eagles’ defence that includes Harry McGregor and Billy O’Meara.

Tyntynder and Swan Hill clash at Alan Garden Reserve in Swan Hill.

It’s a must-win match for the Swans to keep the heat on the fifth-placed NNWU Demons.

Swan Hill won the King’s Birthday holiday weekend match against Tyntynder by 16 points.

The Swans worked incredibly hard to score a two-goal win against Cohuna Kangas last Saturday.

Kallen Heslop led the Swans’ attack on four goals as Jose Miliado added two.

Selected forward line for this match includes Zach Mihocek, Brandon Houlihan and captain Luke Phelan.

On-baller Matt Wade has had a superb season for the Swans.

The Swans also have Sonny Beasy on  a wing, Thomas Corridan and Xavier Molonoey at half-back.

Tyntynder had the bye last round.

The Bulldogs kept the heat on Lake Boga in the round 15 match at Swan Hill’s Alan Garden Reserve.

Tyntynder led by 28 points at three quarter-time, but could not stop Lake Boga’s surge of 6.3 to a goal to claim a 74-69 victory.

Best for the Bulldogs in that match were Matt Gilbee, Jordi Bibby, Harry Simpson, Zac Denham, Brock Storer and Elliot Broad.

Big roles to play for Josh Stone in the centre, Isaiah Bull as ruck-rover, and Jason Eagle at full-forward.

Cohuna Kangas are at home to play the Saints from Tooleybuc Manangatang.

The Kangas start the round in seventh place and a win behind Nyah Nyah West United, and Swan Hill.

Cohuna will be determined to rebound from last week’s loss to Swan Hill.

In round six, Cohuna won 101-79 at Tooleybuc.

Key players for the Tyson Findlay-coached Cohuna include Jack Donat, Rhys Free, Jarrod Findlay, Joel Helman, Tom Metherell, and Will Thrum.

The Kangas also have rover Sam McGlone, Riley Hird, and Brenton Conforti.

The Saints were beaten by 19 points in last week’s clash with NNWU United at Manangatang.

Key players for the Saints include ruckman Tim Auckland, Blake Grant, Ethan Goldfinch, Jaicob Kenny, Ethan Goldfinch, Connor McDonald and Josh Williams.

Koondrook Barham has the bye.

FIVE NOT SET AS TEAMS TACKLE LAST ROUND

JUST who is in the top five of the Central Murray FNL’s senior footy competition will not be finalised until after Saturday’s 18th round.

Nyah Nyah West United and Lake Boga start the day’s play in the 3SH-backed competition in fourth and fifth place.

Lake Boga will start favourite, while the NNWU Demons have the bye.

Swan Hill and Cohuna Kangas are fighting to qualify for finals.

A Swans victory could lift them to the fifth rung should Lake Boga be defeated.

Cohuna Kangas are a win behind Lake Boga, but have far superior percentage.

It will be a miracle, but a Cohuna victory and defeats for the Swans and Magpies would see the Kangas jump to the fifth rung.

It’s a huge match for Swan Hill against Balranald at Swan Hill Recreation Reserve.

Regardless of a win, loss or draw, Balranald has secured a top-three finish and a spot in the qualifying final.

When the Swans and Kangaroos met in round  seven it was Balranald which claimed a 34-point victory on its turf at Greenham Park.

The Kangaroos will be determined to hit back after consecutive defeats to Lake Boga, 55-60; and Kerang, 86-94.

Swan Hill has won its past two hit-outs against Cohuna, 86-74; and Tyntynder, 94-67.

Key players for the Swans include ruckman Toby Thoolen, ruck-rover Matthew Wade, Jose Miliado in the centre, Kallen Heslop and Zach Mihocek in attack.

Huge challenge for Swan Hill defenders Hamish Robertson, Leighton Dullard, Thomas Corridan and Jarvis Keogh against Ben Fuller, Jydon Neagle, Drew Lloyd and Nathan Ablett.

Other players to watch for Balranald include Jaxon and Matthew Neagle, Ethan Gant, Colin Andrews and Kobe Lloyd.

Top teams Kerang and Woorinen clash at Kerang’s Riverside Park.

The Troy Coates-coached Kerang will be aiming to mark an unbeaten run to the finals.

Massive test for the Woorinen Tigers against the reigning premier.

Just seven points separated these teams when they met at Woorinen in the seventh round.

On that day the Blues fought for a 57-50 victory.

A major strength of the Kerang line-up is its run and teamwork by the on-ballers and midfielders.

Players to watch for the Blues are captain Josh Nitschke in the centre, Hayden Hall on a wing, Josh Hann and Rylee Smith.

Kerang also did well to recruit experienced ruckman/forward Nic Lang from Kangaroo Flat.

The Blues have Martin Kelly capable of winning plenty of the ball, and an attack that includes Michael Runciman and Ryan Gillingham.

Woorinen’s line-up includes Dylan Godwin in the centre, ruckman Lachlan Gardner, Doug Beames, Danko Bzenic, Josh Domaille and Mitchell Uhlhorn.

Mallee Eagles tackle Cohuna at Lalbert.

In round seven Cohuna beat the Eagles by three goals.

The Tyson Findlay-coached Cohuna needs plenty of cards to fall in its favour to be in the five.

First priority is beat the Eagles.

Key players in the Cohuna line-up include Rhys Free at full-forward, Joel Helman in the centre, Jack Donat, Will Thrum and Sam McGlone.

The Kangas also have the premiership-winning experience of Tom Metherell and Jarrod Findlay from their days with North Bendigo.

Mallee will be keen to mark its fifth victory of the season.

Chances of an upset victory will depend greatly on the play of Brent Macleod, Beau Bennett, Paul Davis, Joe Halloran at full-back, Harry McGregor at centre half-back, Billy and Zac O’Meara.

Lake Boga is on home turf at Lake Boga Sports Club to play Koondrook Barham.

The Magpies will be aiming for a big win in the lead-up to another finals campaign.

Lake Boga’s line-up includes Tyle Williams in the centre, Jayden Lonergan and Matt Taverna in attack, ruckman Jacob Simpson, Taylor Johnstone and Marty Parsons in defence.

Been a tough run for the River Raiders from Koondrook Barham.

Recruited from Huntly, Mitch Christensen is one of KB’s most consistent players.

Final hit-out for Koondrook Barham which had the bye last round.

Players to watch for the River Raiders include Jack Thrum in the centre, captain Patrick Goble, Tom Amor and Josh McMahon in defence, and ruckman Reagan Hamilton.

Tooleybuc Manangatang tackles Tyntynder at Manangatang.

In round seven it was Tyntynder which beat the Saints by two goals at Swan Hill’s Alan Garden Reserve.

Both teams are on the rebound from defeat.

A key to the Saints’ chances will be through full-forward Josh Williams and also John and Richard Wardle in attack.

Other in-form players for Tooleybuc Manangatang are Ryan Domaille, ruck-rover Blake Grant, Harrison Maher, Sam Morton and centreman Connor McDonald.

Tyntynder played well to finish within 27 points of Swan Hill last Saturday.

Best for the Bulldogs in that match were ruck-rover Roy George, centreman Josh Stone, Zac Denham, Cayden Crowe, and Sam Bull at half-forward.

Nyah Nyah West United has the bye.

Demons fire up for clash with Cohuna at Nyah

THE Demons from Nyah Nyah West United will put the heat on Cohuna Kangas in Saturday’s eighth round of the Central Murray FNL’s senior footy action.

Sixth in the 3SH-backed competition on a 3-3 record, Nyah Nyah West United is back on home turf at Nyah for this crucial contest.

The Cohuna Kangas make their way to Nyah determined to mark their fourth win and jump a rung on the ladder.

NNWU had the bye last round.

The previous Saturday the Demons were in great form as they won 130-68 against Mallee Eagles at Lalbert.

Best for NNWU in that match were Joel Walsh, Jarrod Stokes, Charlie Boulton and Ethan Saville.

A Demons’ attack which includes Hassan Ahmat-Watkins, Alex Erlandson and Dominic Gallo will be up against Nathan Hammond, Jake Hammond and Daniel Paterson.

After consecutive defeats in rounds four and five, Cohuna is now chasing three wins on the trot.

Cohuna scored a hard-fought 88-70 victory at home against Mallee Eagles last round as Jarrod Findlay, Joel Helman, Daniel Paterson and Luke Conca led the way.

Key players for the Kangas include Sam McGlone, coach Tyson Findlay, Will Thrum and Rhys Free.

Four points is the difference between the third-placed Woorinen and seventh-placed Swan Hill who clash at Swan Hill this Saturday.

Swan Hill is on the rebound from a 41-75 loss at Balranald.

The task does not become any easier against a Woorinen line-up which has a 4-2 record following a 50-57 loss at home to the unbeaten Kerang.

Swan Hill has the experienced Toby Thoolen in the ruck and had Hamish Robertson and Matt Wade play well against Balranald.

Another player to watch for the Swans is Matt Holdstock on a wing.

Holdstock has played for Swan Hill since 2018 after stints with Kerang, Golden Square, Newbridge, Cohuna Kangas, and Murrabit.

An attack which includes Zach Mihocek, Elijah Miliado and Sonny Beasy will test the Tigers.

Key players for the Woorinen Tigers include Angus Butterfield, Lachlan Gardner in the ruck, Robbie Miller and Robert Rush.

Key targets in attack are Danko Bzenic, Doug Beames and Will Collicoat.

Tooleybuc Manangatang is on home turf at Tooleybuc to take on Balranald.

The Saints have a 1-5 record but played well to finish within two goals of Tyntynder last round.

Best for the Saints in that match were Jaicob Kenny, Jack Mazzarella, Rory Alexander and John Wardle.

Tooleybuc Manangatang will also look for big games from the likes of Josh Williams in the forward line, Ethan Goldfinch in the centre, and rover Tim Babui.

A 5-1 record has Balranald in second place on the ladder.

The Kangaroos beat Swan Hill by 34 points at Balranald last Saturday as Jaxon Neagle, Jordan Wilkins, Matt Neagle and Ryan Middlebrook were best.

A talented line-up from Balranald includes Rory Fitzgerald, Ethan Gant, Drew Lloyd and Harrison Soraggi.

Mallee Eagles take on Tyntynder at Lalbert.

The Eagles had Brett Thomas, Zac O’Meara and , Darcy McGregor play well in the round seven clash at Cohuna.

Mallee also has Angus McKenzie in the ruck, Billy O’Meara on a wing, Beau Bennett and Ayden Tessari.

Tyntynder will be eyeing a great chance to chalk up consecutive wins.

Roy George, Matt Gilbee and Wilhelm Hawkins were among the best in the 63-51 win against the Saints from Tooleybuc Manangatang.

Jason Eagle is the key target in a Bulldogs’ attack that includes Matt Corney, Justin Ellis and Josh Stone.

Kerang is back at Riverside Park to take on Koondrook Barham.

The Troy Coates-coached Kerang had to work hard for a 57-50 win at Woorinen as Josh Nitschke, Sam Heavyside, Sam Nitschke and Jake Daglish were best.

A formidable Kerang line-up includes Martin Kelly on a wing, ruck-rover Josh Hann, Michael Dalrymple at centre half-forward, and Nic Pay in defence.

Koondrook Barham was beaten 39-98 at home by Lake Boga.

The River Raiders will look to Tom Amor, Eli Boyd, Domenico Cirillo and captain Patrick Goble to show the way in terms of pressure and making the most of possessions.

Other key players for Koondrook Barham include Mitch Christensen, Colin McVeigh and Harley Burmeister-Lyons.

Lake Boga has the bye.

There is plenty of action to preview in Round 9 of the Central Murray, however, first, we would like to highlight some facts surrounding our annual Pride Round.

Statistically speaking, there are likely to be individuals at every club who are impacted by prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ communities, so we are asking clubs to come together and spread a positive message of acceptance and inclusion throughout our diverse sporting landscape.

The Central Murray and Golden Rivers Leagues believe that, as a community, we should celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are proud to support the LGBTQIA+ community, by bringing awareness to the issues facing our local groups.

Everyone should feel and welcome to play the sport they love and, at our clubs and within the Leagues, we should not discriminate.

Why should you care about celebrating inclusion and acceptance in this year’s Pride Round?

The AIDS Council of NSW 58% of people in the Australian Sporting Sector believe that more effort should be put into the LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sport. This is, in part, due to increasing experiences, and observations of, homophobia, discrimination, exclusion and prejudices within sporting clubs.

Research has demonstrated that a disproportionate number of LGBTQIA+ communities experience poorer mental health outcomes and have higher risk of suicidal behaviours than their peers. These health outcomes are directly related to experiences of stigma, prejudice, discrimination and abuse on the basis of being LGBTQIA+.

• LGBTQIA+ young people aged 16 to 27 are five times more likely to have attempted suicide in their lifetime.
• LGBTQIA+ people are two and a half times more likely to have been diagnosed or treated for a mental health condition in the past 12 months.
• LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to experience and be diagnosed with depression, specifically: LGBTI people are nearly six times more likely; Transgender and gender diverse people aged 14 to 25 are over seven times more likely; Transgender and gender diverse people aged 18 and over are five and a half times more likely; People with an intersex variation are over twice as likely.
• LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to experience and be diagnosed with anxiety, specifically, LGBTI people are over three times as likely to report having an anxiety-related condition.
• LGBTQIA+ people aged 18 and over scored a mean K10 (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale)¬ score of 24.3, indicating high levels of psychological distress, compared to the general public mean of 14.5, indicating much lower levels of psychological distress.

Some further reading or helpful resources are available here for anyone who is interested in learning more:

Snapshot Of Mental Health And Suicide Preventation - https://bit.ly/3BYjLSj

ReachOut Australia - https://au.reachout.com/articles/lgbtqi-support-services

Rainbow Network - https://www.rainbownetwork.com.au/resources

Minus18 - https://www.minus18.org.au/

headspace - https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/swan-hill/

MAGPIES TACKLE LADDER LEADERS AT LAKE BOGA

LAKE Boga is the latest team to try and break Kerang’s unbeaten run in Saturday’s ninth round of the 3SH-backed senior footy action in the Central Murray FNL.

The Magpies have home ground advantage at Lake Boga as fifth takes on first.

It’s a well-rested Lake Boga team which had the bye on June 3 and then another rest on a King’s Birthday holiday weekend which featured the stand-alone Swan Hill and Tyntynder match.

A key to Lake Boga’s chances of an upset win against the Kerang Blues will be on-ball and midfield duels.

The Magpies will look to ruckman Jacob Simpson, centreman Tyle Williams, and on-ballers Nathaniel Holmes-Brown and Jake Warren to have a major influence on contests.

Lake Boga has the AFL experience of former Essendon and Port Adelaide player Angus Monfries in attack or across half-back.

Other key players for the Magpies include David Gourdis at full-forward, and Matt Taverna at centre half-back.

In-form players for the Troy Coates-coached Kerang include Michael Dalrymple, Josh Hann, Sam Heavyside and Rylee Smith.

A strong attack for the Blues features Ryan Gillingham and Hayden Hall.

Balranald is on home turf at Greenham Park to take on Mallee Eagles.

A 6-1 record has Balranald in second place nearing the halfway mark of the season.

Those to have starred for the Kangaroos include Ben Fuller, Ethan Gant, Ryan Middlebrook, Jaxon and Jydon Neagle, and Harrison Soraggi.

Huge test for the Eagles who are ninth on a 2-5 record.

Mallee teamed well for a 45-point win against Tyntynder at Lalbert in round eight.

Best for the Eagles in that match were Shaun Harrison, Braidon Bennett, Zac O’Meara and Brandon Gardiner.

Mallee will also look to Ben Bennett, Darcy McGregor and Angus McKenzie to play well in their on-ball roles.

Tyntynder takes on Nyah Nyah West United at Alan Garden Reserve.

The Bulldogs were let down by inaccuracy as they scored 4.12 in last Saturday night’s match under Swan Hill’s lights.

Best for Tyntynder in that match were Matt Corney, Matt Gilbee and Elliot Broad.

The Bulldogs will also look to Jason Eagle, Roy George and Liam Whelan to cap off attacking moves, and for Wilhelm Hawkins and Harry Simpson to defend well.

The NNWU Demons played well to finish within 13 points of Cohuna in Nyah in round eight.

Players to watch for NNWU include Joel Campbell at full-back, Riley Daniels and Charlie Boulton across half-forward, and rover Kayne Davidson.

Koondrook Barham faces Swan Hill at Barham.

The River Raiders are yet to mark a victory this season and will look to Colin McVeigh, Patrick Goble, Mitch Christensen, Dominic Cirillo and Scott Wood to lead the way.

Not an easy task against a Swan Hill line-up which is fighting to gain a place in the top five.

In-form players for the Swans include ruckman Toby Thoolen, Matt Wade, Brandon Houlihan and Xavier Moloney.

Swan Hill also has the leadership of Luke Phelan and Tom Holdstock, and the skilful Jose Miliado.

Woorinen Tigers are at home to play Tooleybuc Manangatang.

The Tigers won their latest match on Swan Hill’s turf by 88 points as Jye Barry, Lachlan Gardner, Will Collicoat and Thomas Isma dominated.

A strong team in yellow and black includes ruck-rover Robbie Miller, Doug Beames at centre half-forward, rover Josh Domaille, and Jye Barry in the centre.

Tooleybuc Manangatang fought back strongly across the last three quarters in the latest home game against Balranald.

The Saints were down 2-38 at quarter-time, but hit back to outscore the Roos, 46-27 in the last three terms.

Best for Tooleybuc Manangatang in that match were Connor McDonald, John Wardle, Jaicob Kenny and Johnathan Marsden.

The Saints have Tim Auckland and Ryan Domaille as key targets in attack, and Tom Carland and Blake Grant in on-ball roles.

Cohuna Kangas have the bye.

THERE will be nine clubs represented across this weekend’s qualifying and elimination finals in the Central Murray FNL footy action.

The series kicks off with Saturday’s qualifying finals at Lalbert.

In the Radio 3SH-backed seniors its Balranald against Woorinen from 2.30pm.

This season’s meetings have won been won by the Balranald Kangaroos.

In round three, Balranald won 77-61 on the Roos’ ground at Greenham Park.

The 14^th round match on Woorinen’s turf ended in a 70-30 victory for the Roos.

A talented line-up for Balranald includes Ben Fuller, Drew Lloyd and Jydon Neagle in attack; Colin Andrews in the centre; Jaxon Neagle and Toby Lay in defence.

Other key players for the Roos are Matt Neagle, Ethan Gant and Nathan Ablett.

Woorinen will need big games from the likes of Doug Beames, Danko Bzenic, Taylor Cameron, Dylan Godwin and Henry Thompson.

The Tigers’ squad includes Ben Booth, Thomas Isma, Lachlan Gardner and Robert Rush.

Unbeaten reigning premier Kerang will meet the Kangaroos or Tigers in the second semi-final on September 9 at Balranald’s Greenham Park.

On Sunday, Lake Boga tackles Nyah Nyah West United in the seniors elimination final from 2.30pm at Swan Hill Recreation Resreve.

A point separated these teams when Lake Boga won, 65-64 at home in the second round.

In the 12^th round the Nyah Nyah West United Demons fired up for a 108-61 victory against the Magpies at Nyah.

Hassan Ahmat-Watkins who has starred in the Northern Territory kicked three goals as Riley and Corey Daniels booted three and four majors.

Best for the Demons were Kayne Davidson, Joel Walsh, Riley Daniels and Ethan Saville.

Ninth in 2022 on a win-loss tally of 3-12 and a draw, NNW United has worked incredibly hard to reach an elimination final.

The Demons will be determined the run does not end on Sunday.

Nyah Nyah West United’s team for the elimination final includes Charlie Boulton, Jarrod Stokes, Matt Gibbs and Joel Campbell.

Big test for the Demons against a Lake Boga line-up that has David Gourdis, Lochie Laing and Jayden Lonergan in attack.

Other key players for the Magpies are rover Lincoln Sieben, Matt Taverna and Tyle Williams.

Lake Boga also has former Essendon and Port Adelaide forward/mid Angus Monfries on a half-back flank.

In the reserves competition, Woorinen takes on Nyah Nyah West United in Saturday’s qualifying final from 12.25pm.

In round 11, Woorinen beat the Demons by three goals in Tigers’ territory.

The winner of Saturday’s match play Kerang in the second semi.

Lake Boga meets Mallee Eagles in Sunday’s elimination final at 12.25pm.

These teams met in the opening round where Lake Boga won 32-20 at Lalbert.

In the 13^th round, the Eagles soared to a 38-26 victory at Lake Boga Sports Club.

It’s a showdown between Kerang and Lake Boga in the Colts qualifying final at 10.20am.

Only meeting in the home and away series was in the ninth round where Kerang won 69-36 in the Magpies’ nest at Lake Boga.

The Blues or Magpies will then meet Woorinen in the second semi.

Sunday’s elimination final features Swan Hill and Koondrook Barham from 10.20am.

A great contest in the ninth round ended in a 41-36 win for Koondrook Barham at Barham.

The finals series kicks off at 9am on Saturday when Tooleybuc Manangatang takes on Kerang in the qualifying final of the Mildura Health Fund-backed under-14 ½ competition.

The Saints and Blues clashed in round one at Tooleybuc where the home team marked a 53-10 victory.

In the 13^th round, Kerang won 57-46 on its turf at Riverside Park.

Lake Boga has advanced to a second semi-final.

On Sunday it will be Nyah Nyah West United and Swan Hill striving to stay in the premiership race when they contest the elimination final from 9am.

Both of this season’s meetings between the Demons and Swans went the way of the NWU United line-up.

The Demons won 51-38 at Swan Hill in the fourth round.

Latest showdown ended in a 45-31 victory for the Demons in their den at Nyah.