Warrack Eagles back on track
Warrack Eagles could be knocking on the door of the Wimmera Football League top five with a win against Nhill on Saturday, after beating Horsham Saints by two points in round five.
The Eagles’ sputtering season was given new life with a stirring 10.7 (67) to 9.11 (65) victory at Anzac Park.
The home side started strongly with eight scoring shots to three in the first term, but was reeled back in by the Saints in the second.
The second half turned into an engrossing arm wrestle, with both sides hitting the scoreboard more frequently.
Both sides kicked four goals in a tense final term, but Warrack was able to keep its nose in front until the final siren.
Young half forward Dane Stewart was among a host of stars for Warrack, booting two goals in a match-winning performance.
Stewart was one of a host of emerging players Eagles president Chris Taylor said would help drive success at the club, during pre-season.
Coach Ryan Mckenzie also slotted two goals, while midfielder Nick Peters worked tirelessly.
It was a bitter defeat for the Saints, who looked to have turned a corner
with back-to-back wins before interleague break.
Young midfielder Oliver Timms was, along with coach Luke Fisher, a standout for the Saints.
They must now play host to Stawell, the which will be seeking to atone for its loss to Minyip-murtoa on Saturday.
The Burras benefitted from a fivegoal haul by Brad Inglis and led comfortably from start to finish in the 12.11 (83) to 7.8 (50) win.
Key forward Jae Mcgrath also provided a target, booting two goals, and Fergus Schier was solid in the ruck.
Rebounding half-back Jack Walker and midfielder Tom Eckel used the ball well for the Warriors and key forward Jay Moody played around the ground, finishing with one goal.
The Burras’ status as the sole undefeated team in the league will be put to the test against reigning premier Horsham on Saturday.
The Demons looked to have their match against Dimboola at the weekend comfortably in hand by half time, but the Roos registered 14 scoring shots to seven in the third and fourth quarters.
Only inaccuracy prevented Dimboola from narrowing the margin more in a 10.8 (68) to 5.14 (44) loss.
Ash Clugston led the way for the Roos on a day where goals were hard to come by.
Horsham coach Deek Roberts will want to see some improvement from his team but can take heart in the performances of defender Rhona Conboy and forward Josh Mibus, who kicked three goals.
Southern Mallee Giants are preparing to take on a rested Ararat following their home win against Nhill at Beulah.
Sam Weddell was named the Giants’ best, but there were plenty of contributors in the 13.4 (82) to 5.8 (38) victory.
Jake Harrap, three goals, and former SANFL player Frazer Driscoll were Nhill’s best.