SENIOR XVIII
EUROA took on a resurgent and undefeated Shepparton Swans outfit at Memorial Oval on Saturday under a typically sunny - and at times hot - May afternoon.
Returning to the team were Jayden Gleeson and Jack Frewen, two highly experienced and well-credentialled players who performed strongly throughout the match.
Cohen Paul was again a standout with his intercept-marking ability, his judgement and capacity to clunk the ball first time always a highlight for Euroa supporters.
Lachlan Hill’s tenacity at the contest was unmatched, and with high-quality ball use from Tom Burke and Max Gleeson, Euroa worked hard to make inroads against the fast, skillful Swans.
Jett and Nate Trotter each contributed two goals, but the final quarter proved costly as the Swans surged.
Thirteen goals were scored in the last term alone - 10 of them by the visitors - allowing them to finish comfortable victors.
The club will again be at home next week, with football commencing at 8.30am as the Euroa Junior Football Netball Club hosts an under-age match prior to the under-18s at 10am. The club’s annual Ladies' Day begins at 1.30pm, with all netball to be completed by about 12.30pm.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 9.5.59 defeated by Shepparton Swans 24.8.152
BEST PLAYERS: Cohen Paul, Jayden Gleeson, Lachlan Hill, Thomas Burke, Max Gleeson.
GOAL KICKERS: Jett Trotter (two), Nate Trotter (two), Will Creevey, Zac Gleeson, Jack McKernan, Nic Asquith, Declan Redfern.
RESERVE XVIII
By TONY BRODIE
EUROA’S reserves once again faced a strong opponent in the Shepparton Swans, who took control early in the match.
The Swans were dominant across the field, winning the ball and pushing forward consistently to register scores across four quarters.
The Shepparton Swans appeared to be a balanced side of young talent, many progressing through the under-18s system, and they will likely remain a strong presence as the season progresses.
Despite the scoreboard, Euroa’s reserves gave their all.
As with previous rounds, the team relied on support from players at other clubs to field a side.
The team made efforts throughout, and glimpses of promising play were evident.
The club appreciates the players who made themselves available to ensure the game could go ahead.
With some players returning from injury and others becoming available, it’s hoped there will be several inclusions next week.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 0.2.2 defeated by Shepparton Swans 19.20.134
BEST PLAYERS: Henry Thomas, Nicholas Thomson, Isaiah Trotter, Mitch Penman, Harold Mawson.
THIRD XVIII
By KATHRYN MILLER
IN a close contest on Saturday morning at Euroa Memorial Oval, the under-18 Euroa Magpies were narrowly defeated by the Shepparton Swans in sunny autumn conditions.
Ethan Saxon opened the scoring for Euroa, capitalising on work from Jack Walters and Noah Campbell.
The Swans hit back quickly, kicking the next two goals to take a 13-7 lead into quarter time.
In the second term, Shepparton extended their advantage, but Euroa remained in the fight.
Midfield work from Nathan Hendricks, Sam Mills, and Noah Campbell set up a goal to Jack Walters, followed by another from Max Miller, who pushed forward from defence, and at the half-time break the Swans led 34-20.
The third quarter saw a tight contest, with Harvey Bell, Blake Hepworth, and Jack Walters working for a behind before Ollie Wilson intercepted a defensive kick and converted.
The Swans, however, maintained control and led 50-34 at the final change.
Euroa surged in the last quarter with a Harvey Bell tackle resulting in a free kick, leading to another goal via Saxon.
Harrison Mills then cleared from the centre and found Sam Mills, who kicked Euroa’s final goal.
Despite their effort, the Magpies fell short in a spirited performance.
Damian Matthews and Nathan Hendricks stood out in defence, showing commitment and resilience across four quarters.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 7.7.49 defeated by Shepparton Swans 9.10.64
BEST PLAYERS: Max Miller, Noah Campbell, Nathan Hendricks, Jack Walters, Ollie Wilson, Ethan Saxon.
GOAL KICKERS: Ethan Saxon (two), Max Miller, Sam Mills, Noah Campbell, Ollie Wilson, Jack Walters.