Strong first half sets up Cats

A strong opening half paved the way for Neerim-Neerim South’s big win over Nilma-Darnum, 22-10 (142) to 4-5 (29).

The Cats made use of the better conditions early, slamming through nine majors in the first term to set up a commanding lead.

Entering the season with high hopes, the Cats didn’t let up, adding five goals to two in the second term to have the match well and truly in their keeping.

The Bombers matched the Cats as conditions worsened in the third term, but were otherwise well and truly off the mark against one of the league’s better sides.

The Cats added a further five goals in the final term to stamp their authority as an early front runner, their final score quite extraordinary given the conditions.

Frustrations began to set in for the Bombers, who have failed to match it with the better sides to date and would not be happy where they are currently at.

Tyssen Morrow and Chris Urie again took control of the forward line, finishing with nine goals between them. Jackson Ward kicked three goals in a performance worthy of best afield honours, while Kody Wilson dominated for the second week running.

Michael Urie and Cameron Nugent were other solid performers for the Cats.

Nicholas Wilcox, Harley Parker, Nathan Campbell, Rhys Chalkley, Ben Arnold and Hayden Potts battled hard in a lost cause for the Bombers.

Cats kick away

Neerim-Neerim South kicked away to an easy win in the Reserves, booting 17-7 (109) to 0-3 (3).

The Cats kicked out to a four goal quarter time lead and were never headed, with Thomas Metselaar, Matthew Cumming and Matthew Churchill among their better players.

Cats claw Crows

Neerim-Neerim South held on to defeat Longwarry in a thrilling under 16 match, 6-7 (43) to 6-3 (39).

It was a tale of two halves, the Crows holding a narrow advantage in the first half but the Cats were able to hit the front in the third term and just hold on.

Josh Ferguson had a big say in the Cats’ success, booting four of his sides six goals. Lachlan Guy, Thomas Pollard, Josh White, Kyle Bright and Beau Ellis helped the undermanned Cats to a thrilling win.

Jonah Serong, Bailey Stephens, Matthias Hurst, Levi Sims, Jordyn Hanssen-De Kort and David Ahrens put up a gallant effort for the Crows.

Warragul Industrials player Josh O’Brien attempts to break clear of a strong tackle from Ellinbank’s Brett Masterson.

Ellinbank’s Keegan Bott marks running towards goal in front of Warragul Industrials player Josh Peterson. Bott converted to set up an early lead for the home side.

Warragul Industrials player Tye Holland boots the ball into attack.