Optimistic Panthers return big score
DESPITE missing several key players and bringing in fill in players from its junior ranks, Yarragon still proved too strong for Buln Buln in the under 16s, winning 9-15 (69) to 1-2 (8).
The Panthers ran out optimisitic to put a big score on the board despite the wet and cold conditions.
Buln Buln were able to put in a competitive effort, the Panthers only kicking away in the final term before both sides played down the clock in the coldest conditions experienced this year.
The close game was at Lang Lang where the home side's better accuracy helped it account for Ellinbank in an upset, 4-2 (26) to 2-9 (21).
The Eagles peppered away in the final term but could only manage five behinds as the Tigers held on.
Longwarry kicked away for a big win despite Neerim-Neerim South being competitive in patches.
The Crows kicked out to a 28-point buffer before the Cats could score on the way to winning 15-13 (103) to 5-1 (31).
The home side put in a competitive showing in the second term, where both sides managed one goal apiece.
Matthew Roberts responded from a quiet week in front of goal to return to form and boot eight majors in the under 18s.
It helped the Cats to kick away and win 14-15 (99) to 2-3 (15).
Ellinbank built an early buffer but couldn't shake the persistent Lang Lang, who remained in the contest to the end.
The Tigers made the Eagles work for the points, the visitor winning 7-6 (48) to 5-4 (34).
Buln Buln continued the theme of mixed results across the junior grades when it comfortably accounted for Yarragon, 12-13 (85) to 4-2 (26).
At each ground, the club that lost in the under 16s turned it around to win at under 18 level.
Missed opportunities from the Lyrebirds saw scores level at half time before the visitor kicked away with 10 goals to one in the second half.