Mallee 2008

LAMEROO HAWKS WIN MALLEE GRAND FINAL

GREAT FINISH TO ROCKET MAYNARD’S CAREER

GRAND FINAL AT PINNAROO on September 13, 2008   

Lameroo	3.6	10.11	12.15	17.17 (119)
Border Downs/Tintinara	2.4	4.5	7.8	13.9 (87)

Best: Lameroo – D Wohling, C Zerk, B Greiger, B Zerk, R Maynard. BDT – M Vandeleur, D Head, L Remfry, J Richardson, T Mengel. Goals: Lameroo – C Philbey 6, D Wohling 4, S Walker 2, R Maynard, S Agelis, J Eckermann, L Burns, J Ridgway. BDT – M Schilling, M Kempe, B Hooper, L Remfry 2, M Vandeleur, J Zacker, J Simpson, J Northcott, J Richardson.

GRAND FINAL PREVIEW THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

BORDER Downs Tintinara will go into Saturday’s Mallee football grand final as favourites to claim a third successive premiership. Lameroo won through to the grand final with a nine point win over a valiant Murrayville. It was the second straight hard fought final played by the Hawks and has given further ammunition to those installing the Crows as favourites. BDT are a class act, as evidenced by making a third successive premiership decider, with Josh and Lachlan Richardson forming the backbone of the team. They are not lone rangers though as Luke Remfry, Jed Northcott and Mark Vandeleur make up a potent collective of players. Up forward Shane Binns and Ben Hooper are the key targets to watch. For Lameroo, the man having the most influence at the back end of the season is Ben Grieger, who has returned from a stint with West Adelaide. His fresh energy, plus most importantly his height, has given the Hawks an edge in the ruck and his battle against Jarvis Webb is full of interest. Lameroo has a broad range of star power as well, the biggest name being legend Rod Maynard. However, he sat out the last half of the preliminary final and his influence could be lessened in what is expected to be his final game. The other player who should have significant impact for the Hawks is Shaun Walker, one of the most talented players in the league. With Dan Wohling and Chris Philbey up forward, there’s also plenty of fire power. With the amount of talent in both sides it would be very disappointing if it wasn’t a close contest. We’ll go with safety and tip BDT to win three in a row.

LAMEROO THROUGH TO GRAND FINAL

Preliminary Semi Final – September 6, 2008

Lameroo	2.4	10.7	14.9	16.14	110
Murrayville	2.2	5.4	10.7	14.11	95
Best
Lameroo	Ben Greiger	Brad Zerk	Stephen Kerley	Shaun Walker	Dan Wohling
Murrayville	Rian Crane	Drew Crane	Paul Mjaskalo	Craig Walker	Damien Fenoughty
Goals
Lameroo	Chris Philbey 5   Josh Ridgway 4   Dan Wohling 3   Ben Greiger   Matt Ridgway   Brad Zerk    Matt Caulfield 1
Murrayville	Drew Crane 6   Paul Mjaskalo   Luke Kirkbright 2   Rian Crane   Michael O’Malley
	Richard McKee   Clayton Sporn 1

PRELIMINARY FINAL PREVIEW THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Lameroo v Murrayville  at Karoonda

LAMEROO goes into this week’s preliminary final on the strength of its consistent season to date – but the Hawks are no certainty to win. They led for the first three quarters in the second semi-final before BDT over ran them in the final term. Murrayville, having had the week off would be well rested and confident of being able to win through to a grand final. The Hawks have found an extra talent in recent weeks with Ben Grieger returning after a stint with West Adelaide and his contest between Will Dalwood and Chris Webb will be more than interesting. With Chris Philbey and Shane Agelis snaring nine goals between them, plus the dangerous Dan Wohling, the Bulldogs defenders will have their work cut out. However, the Bullies have their own stars that will cause trouble if left unattended with Rian Crane in outstanding form. Damien Fenoughty and Kevin Wyatt form a strong midfield as well, while Drew Crane is a huge asset up forward. Murrayville used up a lot of petrol tickets mid season to throw themselves into the premiership mix – has it now got the legs to first roll Lameroo and BDT?  Lameroo would like to think not and we agree the Hawks to win.

Second Semi Final at Murrayville on Saturday August 30, 2008

BDT	2.1	8.5	11.8	17.16	118
Lameroo	4.4	9.5	13.7	15.9	99
Best
BDT	Josh Richardson	Jed Northcott	Lachlan Richardson	Shane Binns	Jarvis Webb
Lameroo	Ben Greiger	Rodney Maynard	Matt Ridgway	Brad Zerk	Chris Philbey
Goals
BDT	Shane Binns 6   Mark Vandeleur   Michael Brighton   Lachlan Richardson 2   Ben Hooper
	Josh Richardson   Justin Michael   Dustin Head   Jordan Richards 1
Lameroo	Chris Philbey 6   Shane Agelis 3   Dan Wohling 2   Ben Greiger   Josh Ridgway
	Rodney Maynard   Matt Ridgway 1

SECOND SEMI-FINAL PREVIEW THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

BORDER Downs Tintinara and Lameroo have been the leading teams all season in 2008 and this match will be one to savour if it lives up to expectations. The Crows are the finals experts and are seeking a third straight grand final. With the Richardson brothers Clint, Josh and Lachlan all struggling with injuries, the Crows will be looking to other avenues to lift in the cauldron of finals action. Luke Remfry and Ben Hooper are quality players, while Matt Schilling can play at either end of the ground. Jack Zacker, James Simpson and Mark Vandeleur are all players who can cause trouble up forward for the Crows. Lameroo has come back into form at the right end of the season and would be feeling confident coming into this match. Midfielders Shaun Walker, Brad Zerk, Alan Penhall and Rodney Maynard are smooth movers and bring the ball forward quickly and intelligently. Chris Philbey and Dan Wohling will enjoy that delivery and BDT defender Michael Brighton will have his hands full. Back from West Adelaide in time for finals, Ben Grieger will provide another tall option for the Hawks. David Philbey, Kym Benham, Craig Wellburn and Mark Benham are all good players too. BDT have done all the right things leading up to this match and deserve favouritism.

JOSH RICHARDSON WINS THIRD MALLEE MAIL MEDAL…. (August 26)

BDT’s Josh Richardson has won this years Mallee Mail Medal, at a function held in Lameroo last night. Richardson, who polled 27 votes, won comfortably from Pinnaroo’s Wade Nickolls (16 votes), with veteran Rodney Maynard (Lameroo) finishing in third spot with 13 votes. It was Richardson’s third Medal win, after he tied in 2006 with Pinaroo’s Sunyl Vogt and in 2007 with Lameroo’s Shaun Walker.

Lameroo’s Bradley Young won the Moyle Medal for the Reserves Best and Fairest, while the Murdoch Medal for the best Senior Colt was won by Aaron Richards of Peake. The ABC’s Roger Wills hosted the night, approximately 180 attended with the guest speaker being former Port start and Radio 5AA commentator Josh Francou. Lameroo did a great job in hosting the night and also won the Marg Graham Mem. Shield which recognises the combined performance of both Footy and Netball Clubs. League Secretary Lou Boughen was recognised for his efforts with a special award given the many years of service not only for the League but for the Karoonda Football Club.

MAIL MEDAL VOTING

Josh Richardson (BDT) 27 votes, Wade Nickolls (Pinnaroo) 16, Rodney Maynard (Lameroo) 13, Shaun Walker (Lameroo) 12, Matt Seyers (Peake) 12, Chris Philbey (Lameroo) 11, Brad Pett (Peake) 10.

RESERVES (MOYLE) MEDAL:

Bradley Young (Lameroo) 18 votes, Dallas Willersdorf (Murrayville) 13, Tom Ford (Murrayville) 13.

SENIOR COLTS (MURDOCH) MEDAL:

Aaron Richards (Peake) 24 votes, Tom Caulfield (Lameroo) 22, Tasman Hawthorne (Pinnaroo) 21, Hayden Schilling (BDT) 19.

MARG GRAHAM MEM. SHIELD VOTES:

Lameroo 360, Border Downs/Tintinara 276, Peake 228

BEST UNDER 19 (RODNEY MAYNARD) AWARD: Alex Keogh (Pinnaroo) 30 votes.

FIRST SEMI FINAL — AUGUST 23, 2008

Murrayville	5-6	12-13	15-15	20-20	140
Pinnaroo	1-2	3-3	6-8	7-9	51
Best
Murrayville	Shannan Wyatt	Rian Crane	Kevin Wyatt	Damien Fenoughty	Clayton Sporn
Pinnaroo	Sunyl Vogt	Alan Halls	Mark Gum	Wade Nickolls	Chad Nickolls
Goals
Murrayville	Drew Crane 5   Luke Kirkbright   Michael O’Malley 4   Paul Mjaskalo   Clayton Sporn 2
	Shilo Wyatt   Will Dalwood   Rian Crane 1
Pinnaroo	Wade Nickolls 2   Sunyl Vogt   Clint Muster   Alex Keogh   Mark Gum   Michael McKenzie 1

FIRST SEMI FINAL PREVIEW THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

THERE are no second chances on offer in this weekend’s Mallee first semi-final and both sides will be aware of it. Murrayville’s 76 point loss to Lameroo on the weekend would have been disheartening for the Dogs, while it provided some hope to Pinnaroo. The Supa Roos have barely threatened the top three sides this season and are in the four by the skin of their teeth. This Saturday is going to be a real test of mettle for the Roos. They will need to match up on the ever dangerous Drew Crane and Mick O’Malley and prevent the Bulldogs from finding other goalscoring options. Rian Crane and Damien Fenoughty are dangerous players through the midfield and if given too much latitude could easily rip the game away from the Roos. Nick Westphalen and Sunyl Vogt are constant performers for Pinnaroo, with Alex Keogh a player who can perform well under pressure. Rucks Wade and Chad Nickolls will take on Will Dalwood and Chris Webb – if the brothers can give their midfielders first use of the ball, Pinnaroo are a chance. Murrayville look a much better outfit across the ground and should get up for a win.

Round 15 – August 16, 2008

Lameroo	4.1	8.5	15.8	24.12	156
Murrayville	3.2	6.5	12.7	12.8	80
Best
Lameroo	Dan Wohling   Matt Ridgway   Rodney Maynard   Shaun Walker   Brad Zerk
Murrayville	Rian Crane   Chris Webb   Damien Fenoughty   Brad Wyatt   Shannan Wyatt
Goals
Lameroo	Dan Wohling 8   Chris Philbey 5   Matt Caulfield 4   Alan Penhall   Luke Burns
	Shaun Walker   Ben Greiger   Matt Ridgway   Shane Agelis   Josh Ridgway 1
Murrayville	Drew Crane 5   Michael O’Malley 2   Luke Kirkbright   Shilo Wyatt   Rian Crane
	Brad Wyatt   James Beckmann 1
BDT	1.4	5.7	6.9	12.12	84
Peake	5.2	7.6	8.7	9.8	62
Best
BDT	Ben Hooper   Matt Schilling   Jarren Crabb   Jordan Richards   Justin Michael
Peake	Matt Seyers   Garth Reynolds   Kym Marwick   Nathan Spry   Travis Carling
Goals
BDT	Ben Hooper 6   Mark Vandeleur 2   Matt Schilling   Clint Richardson
	Luke Remfry   Justin Michael 1
Peake	Matt Seyers 3   Toby Downs 2   Scott Jolly   James Fiegert   Aaron Barney
	Travis Carling 1
Pinnaroo	22.22	154
Karoonda	5.8	38
Best
Pinnaroo	Alex Keogh   Sunyl Vogt   Wade Nickolls   Nick Westphalen   Braden Thomas
Karoonda	Corey Knight   Luke Hocking   Mark Burnett   Reece Boughen   Kevin Kropinyeri
Goals
Pinnaroo	Nick Westphalen 7   Craig Gum   Brad Moyle 3   Brett Gum   Sunyl Vogt
	Alex Keogh 2   Heath Boseley   Wade Nickolls   Clint Muster 1
Karoonda	Mark Burnett   Luke Hocking 2   Corey Knight 1

THE RIVERALND WEEKLY PREVIEWS ROUND 15

Murrayville v Lameroo

MURRAYVILLE’S credentials as a premiership contender will be tested this weekend as it hosts Lameroo in the final minor round match of the season. Last week’s match against Peake wasn’t a great display for the Bulldogs and they will be hoping for a better effort. Will Dalwood and Shannon Wyatt have found some form at the right time of the season, while Drew Crane and Mick O’Malley provide a Batman and Robin act (similar to Richmond’s Matthew Richardson and Nathan Brown) in the forward lines. On the other hand, Lameroo will be sharpening the claws for the finals with Shaun Walker and Brad Zerk stars of the competition. Chris Philbey and Dan Wohling are key forwards on fire, while Craig Zerk is a reliable defender. This will be a fascinating match – the points aren’t relevant, but confidence derived from the contest is. Murrayville to get up at home.

Peake v BDT

PEAKE can mathematically still make the finals, after two agonisingly close losses in recent weeks, but it looks like mission impossible for the Lions. Their chances of beating the Crows are slim to none, while the same can be said for Karoonda, defeating Pinnaroo. Peake can only control what is happening in this match though and will do its best, with Matt Seyers, Kym Marwick and Garth Reynolds expected to star. BDT has some injury worries with Josh and Lachlan Richardson, along with Shane Binns unlikely to play. This gives the Lions an opening to exploit but can they do it? You would think with Chris Gregory, Matt Schilling and Jack Zacker all playing well in recent weeks, this is unlikely to happen.

Karoonda v Pinnaroo

THE MAGPIES have little to play for this week – although a win would be a nice way to finish off what has been a long season for the struggling  club.  Corey Knight and Luke Hocking are the club’s standout players and will be striving to score an upset to restore some pride. Pinnaroo have had an inconsistent season but would not be looking to record a loss before the finals. Wade Nickolls is a gun player, while Sunyl Vogt has returned to form.

Alex Keogh provides a small forward, while Mark Gum will want to score a few more goals before the major round. It would be nice to see the Maggies get up, but we can’t see the upset occurring.

Round 14 – August 9, 2008

BDT	3.2	6.5	13.7	20.11	131
Karoonda	1.3	2.4	5.6	7.6	48
Best: BDT	Clint Richardson   Chris Gregory   Ben Hooper   Justin Michsel   Luke Remfry
Karoonda	Corey Knight   Luke Hocking   Andrew Smithson   Mark Burnett   Reece Boughen
Goals: BDT	Chris Gregory 6   Scott Schulz 3   Shane Binns   Sebastian Richards 2
	Luke Remfry   Michael Kempe   James Simpson   Mark Vandeleur
	Jarred Schilling   Clint Richardson   Jack Zacker 1
Karoonda	Brodie Chinner   Corey Knight 2   Jacob Neary   Luke Hocking   B.Norman 1
Murrayville	6.4	12.7	15.11	18.12	120
Peake	7.2	12.5	14.11	16.15	111
Best: Murrayville	Will Dalwood  Shannan Wyatt  James Beckmann  Michael O’Malley   Drew Crane
Peake	Matt Seyers   Garth Reynolds   James Fiegert   Travis Carling   Kym Marwick
Goals
Murrayville	Michael O’Malley    Will Dalwood 5   Drew Crane 4   Shilo Wyatt
	James Beckmann   Damien Fenoughty   Kevin Wyatt 1
Peake	Matt Seyers 5   Michael Wilson 4   Scott Jolly 3   Toby Downs 2
	Jason Lindner   Travis Carling   James Fiegert 1
Lameroo	9.1	19.4	24.8	26.12	168
Pinnaroo	2.3	2.3	6.8	7.8	50
Best: Lameroo	Shaun Walker   Brad Zerk   David Philbey   Rodney Maynard   Craig Zerk
Pinnaroo	Wade Nickolls   Alex Keogh   Sunyl Vogt   Brett Gum   Heath Nickolls
Best: Lameroo	Chris Philbey   Matt Caulfield 5   Dan Wohling   Shaun Walker 3   Shane Agelis
	Rodney Maynard   Tom Bell   Matt Ridgway 2   Josh Ridgway   Luke Burn 1
Pinnaroo	Clint Muster   Brett Gum 2   Heath Nickolls   Alex Keogh   Mark Gum 1

THE RIVERLAND WEKKLY PREVIEWS OF AUGUST 9 GAMES

Pinnaroo v Lameroo
HAVING booked a finals berth in its last match, Pinnaroo will now start to look forwards and hope to score some wins against the top three. A win over Lameroo would give the Supa Roos plenty of confidence but is it likely? West Adelaide player Ryan Nickolls has added some depth for the Roos in recent games but is likely to be back in red and black colours this week. If Leith Dabinett, Nick Westphalen, Wade Nickolls and Sunyl Vogt can fire their side is in with a chance of victory. Against a confident Lameroo, none of those players can afford to have a down day. Between Chris Philbey and Shaun Walker, Lameroo have two of the classiest players going around and will be hard to stop. Rod Maynard and Brad Zerk are in good form and it is this depth that will see Lameroo get a good win over their rivals.
Murrayville v Peake
WITH its hopes of collecting the double chance now out the window, Murrayville will be focusing on getting everything right for the finals. This Saturday’s game against Peake will be a chance for the Bulldogs to fine tune some plays and with Drew Crane firing up front (47 goals in the past seven games) will be looking to maintain clean forward delivery. Rian Crane is an absolute star and ruckman Chris Webb has proved to be an asset for the Dogs. While Murrayville’s loss on Saturday saw its double chance hopes end, the Lions faced an even more disappointing result. Pinnaroo’s win all but ruling out a return to finals for the Lions. They now have nothing left to play for but pride. Matt Seyers will continue his stellar season, while Nathan Spry, Travis Carling and Brendan Pett are all stars. Bulldogs to win this one by seven goals.
BDT v Karoonda
SADLY for the Magpies this match will be a mere formality. Karoonda has battled bravely and has mostly avoided being belted but as the season rolls on to a conclusion, motivation would be hard to find. Nevertheless, the Magpies will put a side out on the park this week against the top side and continue their fight to ensure footy stays in their town – which is great news for Mallee footy. Luke Hocking and Corey Knight are determined players, while Andrew Smithson has played well. They won’t have any answers though for a BDT side that has Luke Remfry, Josh Richardson, Ben Hooper, Clint Richardson and Mark Vandeleur. The Crows to win by more than plenty.
Round 13 – August 2, 2008

Pinnaroo	6.2	10.5	12.12	16.20	116
Peake	4.3	9.6	12.7	15.9	99
Best: Pinnaroo	Thomas Keogh   Clint Muster   Ryan Nickolls   Matthew Wilson   Alex Keogh
Peake	Matthew Seyers   Brendan Pett   Kym Marwick   Travis Carling   Gareth Diprose
Goals – Pinnaroo	Alex Keogh 4  Mark Gum   Matthew Wilson 3   Craig Gum   Chad Nickolls 2
	Clint Muster   Brett Gum 1
Peake	Matthew Seyers 6   James Fiegert   Toby Downs 2   Scott Crouch   Stuart Bond
	Brendan Pett   Mark Tootell   Michael Wilson 1
Lameroo	3.8	18.16	23.21	37.26	248
Karoonda	0.2	0.3	2.5	3.6	24
Best: Lameroo	Shaun Walker   Jarred Eckermann   Chris Philbey   Rodney Maynard   Brad Zerk
Karoonda	Luke Hocking   Reece Boughen   Corey Knight   Mark Burnett   James O’Loughlin
Goals – Lameroo	Chris Philbey 10   Rodney Maynard 6   Shane Agelis 5   Dan Wohling 4
	Tom Bell 3   Ben Greiger   Shaun Walker   Alan Penhall 2   Matt Ridgway
	Mark Benham   Craig Wellburn 1
Karoonda	Corey Knight 2   Lucas Neumann 1
BDT	6.4	14.4	17.8	20.10	130
Murrayville	3.4	5.5	10.5	15.9	99
Best – BDT	Luke Remfry   Josh Richardson   Ben Hooper   Clint Richardson  Mark Vandeleur
Murrayville	Drew Crane   Rian Crane   Chris Webb   Darcy Crane
Goals – BDT	Jack Zacker 5   Shane Binns 4   Josh Richardson 3   Luke Remfry   Dustin Head
	Mark Vandeleur 2   Jarren Crabb   Clint Richardson 1
Murrayville	Drew Crane 8   Michael O’Malley   Darcy Crane 2   Rian Crane   Daryl Murphy
	James Beckmann 1

ROUND 13 PREVIEWS THANKS TO THE RIVERALND WEEKLY

BDT v Murrayville

THIS game looms as the most important match of the minor round for these two clubs. Murrayville’s late surge at the double chance will all come to nought if it loses this match to BDT. With Mark Fenoughty joining brother Damien in the side last round, the Bulldogs depth has further improved. Rian Crane is also in good touch for the Dogs and is hard to stop. For BDT, the Richardson brothers Josh, Clint and Lachlan are all firing up at the right time of the year, while Luke Remfry is a talent hard to match up on. It should be a torrid contest if all goes as expected and possibly even the grand final preview. BDT to win – only because of the home ground advantage.

Lameroo v Karoonda

IT is hard to see Karoonda causing an upset in this match against a team now firmly focused on its finals preparations. Lameroo is very hungry to win the flag this year and will be looking to score a big win over the Magpies to start building confidence. Dan Wohling has been a model of consistency this season up forward for the Hawks, scoring in every game. Shaun Walker is an outright star and will be hard to stop, while Rod Maynard is at his vintage best. Karoonda’s depth will see it struggle against this top four side. Corey Knight will battle hard as always, while Luke Hocking and Jacob Neary always give an honest contest. Lameroo to boot a big score on the way to victory.

Peake v Pinnaroo

ANOTHER game vital to the finals hopes of both sides. The Lions are hanging in the top four by the skin of their teeth – a loss to Pinnaroo in this match could doom them to missing out on their long awaited finals appearance (the Supa Roos have one more match against Karoonda this season). The ruck duels could be the most important contest on the field – with Nathan Spry and Stephen Morris needing to prevent the brothers Nickolls, Wade and Chad, from dominating the contest. Brendan Pett, Travis Carling and Scott Crouch work well around the ground for the Lions. They deliver the ball well to their key forward Matt Seyers, who will need to be controlled by Heath Boseley in what will be another key contest. For the Supa Roos, Sunyl Vogt and Brett Gum will need to fire.  This is a tough match to pick but we’re going with the Lions.

Round 12 – July 26, 2008

Murrayville	4.3	7.8	9.16	11.25	91
Karoonda	2.2	2.3	4.3	5.4	34
Best
Murrayville	Rian Crane   Chris Webb   Damien Fenoughty   Jesse Vass   Jimmy Struck
Karoonda	Luke Hocking   Jacob Neary   Andrew Smithson   Corey Knight   Mark Burnett
Goals
Murrayville	Michael O’Malley 3  Shannon Wyatt  Drew Crane  Jimmy Struck 2
	Jesse Vass  James Beckmann 1
Karoonda	Matt Nicholls   Nick Kambuts   Corey Knight   Luke McLean   Mark Burnett 1
BDT	4.6	9.15	18.18	24.25	169
Pinnaroo	4.0	6.4	7.4	9.4	58
Best
BDT	Luke Remfry   Jarren Crabb   Jack Zacker   Josh Richardson   C.Richardson
Pinnaroo	Brett Gum   Wade Nickolls   David Ness   Sunyl Vogt   Heath Boseley
Goals
BDT	Jack Zacker 6  Josh Richardson 5   Sebastian Richards   Ben Hooper 3
	Mark Vandeleur   Aaron Richards   Matt Schilling 2  Luke Remfry 1
Pinnaroo	Wade Nickolls 3  Sunyl Vogt  Matthew Wilson 2
	Michael McKenzie  Paul Kinnaird 1
Lameroo	3.3	12.9	13.9	19.15	129
Peake	1.5	4.7	8.13	10.14	74
Best
Lameroo	Shaun Walker   Dan Wohling   Josh Ridgway   Rodney Maynard   Mark Benham
Peake	Travis Carling   Matt Seyers   Jason Lindner   James Fiegert   Nathan Spry
Goals
Lameroo	Dan Wohling 6  Matt Ridgway 4  Josh Ridgway   Chris Philbey   Shane Agelis 2
	Stephen Kerley   Shaun Walker  Rodney Maynard 1
Peake	Scott Jolly 3  Toby Downs   Matt Seyers 2  Mark Tootell   James Fiegert
	Kenton Heym 1

ROUND 12 PREVIEWS THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Pinnaroo v BDT

Things are getting worrisome for Pinnaroo, Peake is now in the four at its expense and Murrayville pumped the Supa Roos by 100 points in last week’s game. Things don’t look to be getting much better for Pinnaroo this weekend as it faces Border Downs Tintinara which is building up for a third consecutive premiership. Josh Richardson, Mark Vandeleur, Clint Richardson and Shane Binns are all names that will strike fear into the heart of their Supa Roos opponents. Josh Zacker and James Simpson will also be hard to match up on. Wade Nickolls, Clint Muster and Leith Dabinett will all have their work cut out trying to stop the murderous Crows wracking up another win.

Karoonda v Murrayville

The last time the Magpies hosted Murrayville, the travelling Dogs had players missing and were severely short of any momentum. This time around though, it’s hard to see the Magpies prevailing as Murrayville are more than ship shape – they are sailing along very well. Mark Fenoughty could return to action for the Bulldogs, adding further to their depth, while Kevin Wyatt, Rian Crane, Shilo Wyatt and Damien Fenoughty have all been doing the job this season. Then there’s Drew Crane – the forward hard to stop when on song. Even with Luke Hocking, Andrew Smithson and Jamie Reed playing well, it’s hard to see the Maggies having the depth to provide a repeat dose of their earlier triumph.

Lameroo v Peake

The Hawks will host the Lions in an important battle for both sides. Lameroo will be looking to establish an ascendancy for a possible finals match up against the Lions in about a month’s time, while the visitors will hope to put some space between themselves and Pinnaroo. It could make for an interesting contest if Peake can play at its peak. Toby Downs has been kicking goals, with some good movement coming from upfield, while Matt Seyers adds considerable strength to the forward line. Scott Crouch, Brendan Pett and Travis Carling have provided the drive in Peake’s recent contests. Will it be enough to stop Shaun Walker, Rodney Maynard and Brad Zerk? While Dan Wohling and Chris Philbey are strong in attack. The Lions will keep with the Hawks for a while but the home side should run out six goal winners.

Round 11 – July 19, 2008

BDT	6.4	7.7	9.10	14.13	97
Lameroo	3.1	7.6	11.8	11.10	76
Best
BDT	Josh Richardson  Mark Vandeleur  Shane Binns  Ben Hooper  Clint Richardson
Lameroo	Shaun Walker   Dan Wohling   Rodney Maynard   Mark Benham   Brad Zerk
Goals
BDT	Shane Binns 7  Josh Richardson 3  Michael Brighton   Jack Zacker
	Jarred Brock   Mark Vandeleur 1
Lameroo	Chris Philbey 4  Dan Wohling   Matt Ridgway 2  Shaun Walker   Shane Agelis
	Neil Rundle 1
Murrayville	3.4	9.13	18.15	23.21	159
Pinnaroo	2.1	2.3	3.6	8.9	57
Best
Murrayville	Rian Crane   Kevin Wyatt   Drew Crane   Chris Webb   Shilo Wyatt
Pinnaroo	Clint Muster   Wade Nickolls   David Ness   Brett Gum   Heath Nickolls
Goals
Murrayville	Drew Crane 11  Rian Crane   Shannan Wyatt 3  James Beckmann 2
	Damien Fenoughty   Luke Kirkbright   Jesse Vass   Michael O’Malley 1
Pinnaroo	Alex Keogh   Sunyl Vogt   Matt Thiel 2  Leith Dabinett   Wade Nickolls 1
Peake	8.6	11.9	17.11	20.12	132
Karoonda	4.1	7.4	9.9	14.11	95
Best
Peake	Matt Seyers   Travis Carling   Scott Crouch   Gareth Diprose   Daniel Marrett
Karoonda	Jacob Neary   Luke Hocking   Corey Knight   Luke McLean   Scott Huxtable
Goals
Peake	T.Downs 5  Scott Crouch   Daniel Marrett   Matt Seyers 4   Travis Carling 2
	Stuart Bond 1
Karoonda	Luke Hocking 8  Corey Knight 2  Nick Kambuts   Luke McLean   Jacob Neary
	Mark Burnett 1

PREVIEWS OF ROUND ELEVEN THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

BDT v Lameroo

BDT took top spot from Lameroo last week and are also looking good for the finals. Josh Richardson is in great form and regularly kicking a bag of goals.  Luke Remfry is having another good year and Ben Hooper featured amongst the goal kickers last week. Chris Gregory returned last week and will strengthen the forward line and Shane Binns will also add scoring power when he returns. Lachlan Richardson doesn’t play a poor game and Jarren Crabb has been a good contributor in 2008. Lameroo are around the mark, but may have slipped behind BDT and Murrayville for premiership favouritism.  Mark Benham was a surprise this year, regularly making the best players on a back flank. Shane Agelis and Jarred Eckermann are opportunist forwards and love kicking goals and Chris Philbey is always dangerous at full forward. Matt Ridgway has become one of the better players in the league and does a job each week at either end of the field. BDT can consolidate top spot with a win over Lameroo.

Peake v Karoonda

 Peake must win this match to stay in touch for the finals. Their big loss to BDT last week has put them further behind Pinnaroo, with percentage vital in the final round.  Matt Seyers is pivotal and must kick goals if Peake are to build their percentage.  Toby Downs is chipping in each week, but others must contribute on the scoreboard for Peake to kick a winning score.  For Karoonda, Luke Hocking and Paul Leidig will be welcomes returns this week.

Corey Knight and Brodie Chinner are having exceptional seasons and Jacob Neary has been a classy recruit. Peake should win.

Murrayville v Pinnaroo

Murrayville are looking more ominous each week and will play a big part in the finals. Drew Crane’s return to the goal front has had a big impact and Michael O’Malley is back to kicking goals.  Will Dalwood has been Best on Ground in the last three matches. Kevin Wyatt is a quality midfielder and Rian Crane appears to be finding form. Pinnaroo are in some trouble with injuries affecting players such as key defender Heath Boseley and Matthew Wilson. Sunyl Vogt returns this week, but his form this year has been patchy at best. Wade Nickolls is back to his best form.

Brett Gum has been in good touch all year and Leith Dabinett is capable of kicking goals. Nick Westphalen is playing good football and Alex Keogh is a live wire at half forward. Murrayville are building towards the finals and will be too good for Pinnaroo.

Round 10 – July 12, 2008

BDT	6.7	12.8	17.17	21.21	147
Peake	2.1	5.2	5.2	6.5	41
Best BDT	Ben Hooper  Luke Remfry  Lachlan Richardson  Josh Richardson  Jarren Crabb
Peake	Matt Seyers  Nathan Spry  Gareth Diprose  Brendan Pett  Scott Crouch
Goals BDT	Josh Richardson 8  Ben Hooper 4  James Simpson 3  Jordan Richards 2
	Mark Vandeleur  Luke Remfry  Chris Gregory  Sebastian Richards 1
Peake	Toby Downs 4  Stuart Bond  Scott Crouch 1
Pinnaroo	3.4	5.5	10.9	17.11	113
Karoonda	1.3	11.7	13.9	15.14	104
Best – Pinnaroo	Wade Nickolls  Nick Westphalen  Brett Gum  Brad Moyle  Chad Nickolls
Karoonda	Jacob Neary  Corey Knight  Luke McLean  Brodie Chinner  Mark Burnett
Goals  Pinnaroo	Leith Dabinett 4  Wade Nickolls 3  Scott Kirkbright  Kane O’Loughlin  Mark Gum 2 Alex Keogh  Giles Oster  Heath Nickolls  Chad Nickolls 1
Karoonda	Corey Knight 6  Matt Nicholls  Mark Burnett 3  Jacob Neary  Rowan Zadow  Nick Kambuts 1
Murrayville	7.2	11.5	17.7	21.8	134
Lameroo	5.2	10.6	11.10	17.13	115
Best
Murrayville	Will Dalwood  Kevin Wyatt  Rian Crane  Michael O’Malley  Shilo Wyatt
Lameroo	Matt Ridgway  Mark Benham  Shaun Walker  Craig Zerk  Rodney Maynard
Goals – Murrayville	Drew Crane 6  Michael O’Malley 5  Clayton Sporn 4  James Beckmann 2  Paul Mjaskalo  Kevin Wyatt  Will Dalwood  James Struck 1
Lameroo	Shane Agelis 6  Chris Philbey 4  Josh Ridgway 2  Alan Penhall  Tom Maynard Dan Wohling  Matt Ridgway  Shaun Walker 1

Round 9 – June 28, 2008

As expected, Border Downs Tintinara returned to the winners list with a 117 point win at Karoonda.For the Crows, Josh Richardson kicked seven goals in a best afield display while Shane Binns also got in the act to kick six, Luke Remfry and Jon Northcott also in the best players. For Karoonda, Paul Leidig and Jamie Reed were their best.

Murrayville maintained their hold onto third spot, with a 17 point win at Peake. Thanks to an impressive second quarter (9.4 to 1.2), the Lions led at the main break by 15 points but were given a bit of a touching up in the third, when Murrayville added 7.2 to 2.3 to regain the lead. In the last quarter, Peake couldn’t do a repeat of their second term, adding 4.4 to 5.1 to go down at home. For the visitors, Will Dalwood was best along with Michael O’Malley who was great up forward kicking 9 goals. For Peake, Garth Reynolds and Scott Crouch were best, the Lions only just out of the top four on percentage.

Lameroo proved too good for Pinnaroo, winning by 81 points. A 13 goal to 3 first half set up the win with Shaun Walker, Rocket Maynard and Chris Philby (7 goals) all playing well. Philby’s effort at the goal front sees him now lead the goalkicking tally with 41 for the season. For Pinnaroo, Brad Moyle and Brett Gum (3 goals) were their best.

Club footy has this week off for the Country Zone Championships, but resumes on July 12 when Murrayville visits Lameroo in the match of the round, Peake will be looking to upset BDT at Coonalpyn in what should also be a great game while Pinnaroo will host Karoonda.

Border Downs/Tintinara	6.0	12.0	15.4	24.8 (152)
Karoonda	2.3	4.4	4.5	5.5 (35)

Best – BDT: J Richardson, L Remfrey, J Northcott, J Crabb, J Richards. Karoonda: P Leidig, J Reed, B Chinner, J Neary, C Knight. Goals – BDT: J Richardson 7, S Binns 6, M Vaudeleur 3, M Kempe, J Simpson, J Webb 2, J Richards, M Brighton. Karoonda: L Hocking, L McLean 2, M Nicholls.

Lameroo	7.3	13.9	21.11	22.20 (152)
Pinnaroo	1.1	3.1	6.1	11.5 (71)

Best – Lameroo: S Walker, R Maynard, C Philbey, J Eckerman, D Wohling. Pinnaroo: B Moyle, B Gum, A Halls, W Nickels, B Thomas. Goals – Lameroo: C Philbey 7, D Wohling 3, S Walker, M Caulfleld, S Kerley, S Akerlis 2 T Maynard, J Ridgeway, A Penhall, R Maynard. Pinnaroo: B Gum 3, S Vogt 2, M Gunn, S Kirkbright, C Muster, L Dabinett, A Keogh, C Nicholls.

Murrayville	7.5	8.7	15.9	20.10 (130)
Peake	2.0	11.4	13.7	17.11 (113)

Best – Murrayville: W Dalwood, M O’Malley, R Crane, C Sporn, S Wyatt. Peake: G Reynolds, S Crouch, M Sayers, B Pelt, S Jolly. Goals – Murrayville: M O’Malley 9. D Crane 3 W Dalwood 2, J Beckman, C Sporn, D Fenoughty, P Mjasklo, A Kinnersley, S Wyatt. Peake: M Sayers, D Marrett, T Down 4, S Crouch 3, K Roberts 2.

Round 8 – June 21, 2008

BULLDOGS SHOW THEY ARE IN THE MIX

Murrayville has emerged as a real premiership contender after its 29 point win over Border Downs/Tintinara.  The Bulldogs now move into third place on the ladder thanks to a fine effort up forward by Drew Crane who kicked 8 goals – 17 in the last two weeks. Kevin Wyatt was the Dogs best along with Crane and Will Dalwood. For the Crows, Matt Schilling and Josh Richardson (4 goals) were best, the loss relegating them to second place on the ladder.

Peake kept their finals chances alive, thanks to a one point win at Pinnaroo. The Lions had the lead for most of the day and were probably helped by the homesides inaccuracy in front of goal. Peake’s best were Nathan Spry and Matt Seyers while for the Supa Roos Alex Keogh and Brett Gum were best. The win was Peake’s third for the season and they remain in 5th spot on equal wins with Pinnaroo, out of the top four by 2.03 percent.

As expected Lameroo beat Karoonda, the margin though 44 points, which says the Magpies played with plenty of  resolve. Karoonda actually led at half time by 7 points, the Hawks clicked into gear in the third term, adding 5.4 to 1.1. The last term was much the same, 7.4 to 3.4. Rocket Maynard was best, while Shane Agelis kicked five goals and Matt Caulfield four. Luke Hocking Had a superb day for the Magpies, kicking seven goals.

This week is another interesting round, with Peake playing Murrayville, top side Lameroo hosts Pinnaroo and Karoonda plays Border Downs/Tintinara

Peake	6.0	8.4	9.7	14.7	91
Pinnaroo	3.6	5.6	7.15	12.18	90

Best Peake, Nathan Spry   Matt Seyers   Travis Carling   Gareth Diprose   Kym Marwick. Pinnaroo, Alex Keogh   Brett Gum   Nick Westphalen   Leith Dabinett   Heath Boseley. Goals, Peake, James Fiegert   Toby Downs 3   Daniel Marrett   Kevin Roberts 2  , Aaron Barney   Matt Seyers   Jason Lindner   Scott Crouch 1 Pinnaroo, Chad Nickolls   Nathan Wilson   Brett Gum   Clint Muster 2  , Leith Dabinett   Mark Gum   Alex Keogh   Mathew Wilson 1

Lameroo	1.8	4.11	9.15	16.19	115
Karoonda	1.1	6.6	7.7	10.11	71

Best- Lameroo-Rodney Maynard   Shaun Walker   Kym Benham   Mark Benham   Alan Penhall. Karoonda-Luke Hocking   Corey Knight   Brodie Chinner   paul Leidig   Andrew Smithson. Goals- Lameroo-Shane Agelis 5   Matt Caulfield 4   Stephen Kerley   Chris Philbey 2,  Kym Benham   Dan Wohling   Tom Walker 1. Karoonda-Luke Hocking 7   Bruce Kerr   Shane Trowse   jacob Neary 1

Murrayville	19.9	123
BDT	13.16	94

Best-  Murrayville-Kevin Wyatt   Drew Crane   Will Dalwood   Brad Wyatt   Jesse Vass. BDT-Matt Schilling  Josh Richardson  Lachlan Richardson  Jarren Crabb  Luke Remfry. Goals- Murrayville-Drew Crane 8   Clayton Sporn 4   Shannan Wyatt 3   Michael O’Malley 2  Will Dalwood   James Beckmann 1. BDT-Josh Richardson 4   Jack Zacker   3   Sebastian Richards 2  Jarvis Webb Lachlan Richardson   Jonathon Northcott   Scott Schulz 1

ROUND EIGHT PREVIEWS THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Match of the round:   Murrayville v BDT – Murrayville’s win over Karoonda was predictable, but the final result was something special and sends a clear message to the rest of the competition; the Dogs are no longer sleeping. James Beckmann and Damien Fenoughty got plenty of the ball, while the double pronged forward line of surprise goalkicker Pat Mjaskalo (10) and Drew Crane (nine) gave the Bulldogs plenty to enjoy. However, BDT have been somewhat of a nemesis for the Bulldogs in past seasons. Outstanding midfielder Josh Richardson and forward Shane Binns are just two of the class players the Crows have at their disposal. A month ago, you would not have backed Murrayville to get anywhere near the reigning premiers but it is in special form and we’re tipping the home ground advantage will be enough to get them over the line.  

Karoonda v Lameroo – The Hawks’ form has been indifferent in recent weeks and they will be looking to dominate this match against the bottom side, reasserting their authority over the competition. A blitzing 10 goal last quarter saw Lameroo just get over Peake. The Hawks would not want to be repeating that form this week and will come out firing with Chris Philbey and Dan Wohling the men to stop, along with Shaun Walker. Luke Hocking, Corey Knight and Jacob Neary are all good players for the Magpies but will have their work cut out for them against the Hawks.  

Pinnaroo v Peake – After coming so close to scoring a victory over Lameroo last round, the Lions will be keen to gain a hard earned victory in this round against Pinnaroo. After a very strong performance, which saw Scott Crouch, Matt Seyers and Steven Morris playng well, the Lions will want to back up and play four quarters this week. It is imperative if Peake is to play finals football that it wins this contest to give it some hope. On the other hand, Pinnaroo needs this win just as badly as it tries to put together a run of form with finals in mind. The Supa Roos have a strong outfit, with Nathan Wilson kicking goals and Mark Gum and Alex Keogh also in good touch. The Supa Roos to win – just.

Round 7 – June 14, 2008

LAMEROO GETS OUT OF JAIL AGAINST PEAKE

The Lameroo Hawks pulled victory from the jaws of defeat with 19 point victory at Peake. After a tight first term, the Lions were brilliant in the second quarter adding 8.1 to 3.2 to lead by 32 points at the main break. They extended the lead to 41 points with a quarter to go and looked set for victory before the Hawks kicked an amazing 10.9 to 1.3 to gain the win. While it was a heart breaking loss, the Lions at least know they are capable of playing finals footy, while for the Hawks, they know that they can win from just about any situation.

Chris Philby was the hero for the Hawks kicking nine goals, while for the Lions, Scott Crouch was best with Matt Seyers kicking 5 goals.

At Tintinara, BDT proved to good for Pinnaroo winning by 49 points. They looked headed for a 20 goal win at three quarter time before Pinnaroo fought back and added 9.3 to 2.2 in the last term to put some respectability on the scoreboard. For BDT, Shane Binns kicked nine goals while Josh Richardson was best kicking five. Brett Gum and Clint Muster were best for Pinnaroo, with Nathan Wilson kicking five.

At Murrayville, the homeside gave the Magpies a touch up to the tune of 238 points. The early damage was done in the first term when they kicked 12-6, topping that in the third by kicking 15-7. Paul Mjaskalo kicked ten and Drew Crane nine, with James Beckman named best, chipping in with six. Luke Hocking was an obvious best for the battling Karoonda kicking six goals.

This week, Pinnaroo hosts Peake, Lameroo will visit Karoonda and Murrayville plays Border Downs/Tintinara in what should be an interesting game.

Murrayville	12.6	20.12	35.19	45.22 (292)
Karoonda	0.3	3.7	3.7	8.8 (56)

Best – Murrayville: J Beckman, D Fenoughty. P Mjaskalo, A Kinnersley, D Crane. Karoonda. E Hocking, C Knight, M Burnett, J Neary, L Neumann. Goals – Murrayville: P Mjaskalo 10, D Crane 9, K Beckmann, M O’Malley 6, R Crane, Shannan Wyatt 4, A Kinnersley 2, J Struck, D Fenoughty. K Wyatt, D Murphy. Karoonda: L Hocking 6, B Kerr, M Burnett.

Lameroo	3.5	6.7	10.8	20.17 (137)
Peake	4.2	12.3	17.7	18.10 (108)

Best – Lameroo: C Philbey, S Walker. D Wohling R Maynard. M Benham. Peake: S Crouch, M Severs. S Morris. G Diprose, N Spry. Goals – Lameroo: C Philbey 9, J Ridgway 3, R Maynard. N Rundle 2, S Agelis, D Wohling, M Ridgway. C Wellburn. Peake: M Seyers 5, T Downs 4, S Jolly 3, S Crouch 2, D Marrett, T Carter, B Pet, K Manvick.

Border Downs/Tintinara	7.4	15.13	22.18	24.20 (164)
Pinnaroo	4.2	7.3	8.4	18.7 (115)

Best — BDT. J Richardson. S Binns, L Richardson, B Hooper, L Remfry. Pinnaroo: B Gum, C Muster, W Nickolls, N Westphalen, S Vogt. Goals -BDT. S Binns 9, J Richardson 5, J Zacker 4, L Remfry 2 A Rlchards. J Simpson, J Crabb, J Richards. Pinnaroo. N Wilson 5, C Nickolls, M Gum 4, W Nlckolls 2, A Keogh, S Vogt, B Gum.

ROUND SEVEN PREVIEWS — THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Match of the round:   BDT v Pinnaroo

With BDT in peak form at the moment, this game might be a mission impossible for Pinnaroo but in the context of the Supa Roos’ season it is vital they put up a strong contest. If the visitors can win, or at the least pressure the Crows, it will breathe some life back into a campaign that faltered with a loss to Murrayville in the last round. The familiar names of Sunyl Vogt, Wade Nickolls and Leith Dabinett will need to fire. Nick Westphalen and Heath Boseley will also be required to have big games. Otherwise a Crows outfit that is in full flight, and with Josh Richardson, Shaun Binns and James Simpson geared for action, is going to be hard to topple.  

Murrayville v Karoonda – The Magpies scored a surprise win against the Bulldogs in their meeting earlier this season. It is hard to see that happening again. Murrayville had some key personnel missing in that last contest, while complacency may also have played a factor. Will Dalwood is coming into his own for the Bulldogs, with Damien Fenoughty a consistently strong performer. The home side’s midfield is going to be way too strong for the misfiring Magpies and should contribute solidly to a big Bulldogs win.  

Peake v Lameroo – With the Lions still in line to return to finals action this match could be interesting – if they can get all guns firing. Matt Seyers is going to need strong delivery to help kick Peake to a winning score and will be hoping to receive some good service from the likes of Nathan Spry and Brendan Pett. However, even if all the cards fall their way, Peake will be up against a Lameroo outfit that will be done licking its wounds and keen to stamp its authority on the competition again. Brad Zerk and Shaun Walker will be among those angered by the Hawks’ last start loss to BDT, while Chris Philbey will also have something to say about it. It’s hard to see the Lions tossing the Hawks in this one.

MID SEASON REVIEW – THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Mallee football takes a breather this week for the Queen’s Birthday long weekend and it would seem it has come at a time when the competition is just hotting up. Previously undefeated Lameroo was ambushed by Border Downs Tintinara and handed a belting in the last round, while Murrayville sent a chill down the back of opposition sides with another win for the season after a slow start, while Peake has shown it could still make the finals if it can beat Pinnaroo. At this stage Karoonda is the only side that can be ruled out of finals action.  

Border Downs Tintinara – Shooting for a third consecutive premiership the Crows returned to top spot on the premiership ladder with their big defeat of Lameroo in the last round. Since losing in the first round, BDT have won six matches in a row. James Simpson (27 goals) is on fire in the forward arc and while they have plenty of other running players none is more important than Josh Richardson, regarded by many as the best player in the competition. Matt Schilling, Ben Hooper and Michael Brighton have been other consistent performers, while Shane Binns booted 10 goals in his last start.  

Lameroo – Have started off the season brightly but the weekend’s 92 point loss would sting as they have a week off. The loss gives the Hawks plenty to contemplate this week. Was the loss an aberration? Or was it a sign of a deeper problem as they head into the second half of the season. It is hard to believe it was more than an aberration but the Crows have been their bogeymen in seasons past. Chris Philbey is a solid leader for the Hawks, while Brad Zerk has been a steadying influence through the midfield. Then of course there is Shaun Walker, who is all class and able to tear a game apart with ease. Another concern for the Hawks is their perceived lack of height. Can they make up for this with pace around the ground? They will be looking for a big finish, as Rod ‘Rocket’ Maynard is expected to call it a day at the end of this year.  

Pinnaroo – The Supa Roos are four points behind the lead pair and, like Lameroo, will be asking themselves some serious questions following their most recent loss. Pinnaroo has plenty of talent but does it have the depth to give the premiership a shake? The club is relying on perennial stars Sunyl Vogt, Heath Boseley and of course Wade Nickolls, while they are relying on a swag of youngsters to play the peripheral positions. Matt Stanley is rumoured to be returning to the playing field and could be a handy acquisition if the club can convince to play more than ‘Magoos’. Goalscoring is also an issue, with no Pinnaroo player scoring more than 18 majors at this early point. The Supa Roos could find themselves under growing pressure from Murrayville and possibly even Peake as the season progresses.  

Murrayville – Who would have predicted that Murrayville would be without a loss after the opening four games of the season? Last year’s grand finalist had a disastrous start to the season, struggling to get a consistent side on the field and even losing to Karoonda at the home of the Mallee Magpies. However, the Bulldogs have barked a warning in the past two rounds with wins over Peake and Pinnaroo. They are now in the four and expected to surge into contention for the double chance. Damien Fenoughty, the wirey Rian Crane and Kevin Wyatt are talents that would slot into any side, while when fit Drew Crane is tough to stop. Darcy Crane has also popped up with some solid performances in recent weeks. It is hard to see the Murrayville juggernaut stopping now that it is winding up but can it win the flag it has been denied in the past few seasons? The slow start could prove a disadvantage at the thin end of the season as each contest is now almost a must win.  

Peake – It has been a long time since the Lions saw finals action, will this be the year? As they do every year, the Lions recruited heavily in the off season but some of those star new players have dropped off already – giving the momentum a bit of a jolt. However, one player who has not left the Lions lair is former Imperials player Matt Seyers who is proving to be one of the best players in the competition. At this stage he has 23 goals and is proving to be quite a handful for opposing defenders. Peake’s problem though is not having quality right across the field. Club stalwarts Brendan Pett and Toby Downs continue to give their all. To make the finals, the Lions will need to sneak some wins off Murrayville and Pinnaroo – something rarely achieved in past seasons.  

Karoonda – The Magpies put out an appeal pre-season to secure some players and the survival of the club. Like Mark Twain rumours of their death are greatly exaggerated – but for how much longer? Hopefully they have a few more years left in them yet. It would seem the season is over for Karoonda, with only one win on the board after six rounds it is hard to see where too many more are going to come from. Corey Knight is a shining light for the Magpies, booting 21 goals so far, while much is expected of Abe Tomich and Eugene Wanganeen week in, week out. Veteran Luke Hocking, Brodie Chinner and Reece Boughen have shown glimpses of form, but overall consistency has been hard to find.

Round 6 – May 31, 2008

Border Downs Tintinara	4.3	9.6	15.7	19.9 (123)
Lameroo	0.3	3.3	4.7	4.7 (31)

Best – BDT: M Schilling. B Hooper, S Binns. L Richardson, M Brighton. Lameroo: L Andrewartha, B Zerk, C Wellburn, B McNeilly, S Walker. Goals  – BDT: S Binns 10, J Simpson 5, J Richardson, A Freeman. J Crabb, S Richards. Lameroo – S Agelis 2, C Philbey. D Wohling.

Murrayville	3.1	12.5	18.9	19.15 (129)
Pinnaroo	5.2	8.4	11.4	16.5 (101)

Best – Murrayville: W Dalwood, J Beckmann, C Sporn, D Fenoughty, A Kinnersly. Pinnaroo. W Nicholls, A Keough. N Westphalen, H Boseley. S Vogt. Goals -­ Murrayville: S White 4, D Crane 3, C Webb, W Dalwood, R Crane, J Beckmann, J Willersdorf 2, C Sporn, M O’Malley. Pinnaroo: W Nickolls 7, C Nickolls 3, N Wilson, A Keough 2, M Gum, R Nickolls.

Peake	6.2	9.7	14.9	20.10 (130)
Karoonda	2.4	7.6	9.10	11.12 (78)

Best – Peake: N Spry, M Seyers, B Pett, T Downs. T Caning. Karoonda: C Knight, A Smithson, T Reed, J Neary, B Carter. Goals – Peake: T Downs, M Seyers 7, S Jolly, P Spry, J Lindner, K Marwick, A Barney, B Pett, Karoonda: C Knight 7, L Hocking 4, R Boughen.

Round Six Previews thanks to The Riverland Weekly

Match of the round: Lameroo v BDT – These two teams are the clear premiership favourites at this early stage of the Mallee Football League season.  The Hawks are undefeated, while the Crows have only lost one game – to Lameroo. However, BDT have picked up some ground since that opening round loss and would be confident of taking it up to the home side. The Hawks have plenty of firepower though, Jarrod Eckermann has been a handy recruit while Chris Philbey is either kicking goals or providing crumbs for goalsneaks Josh Ridgway, Shane Agelis and Mark Benham. Brothers Brad and Craig Zerk are also playing consistently well. However, Josh Richardson is in fantastic form for the Crows, scoring 11 goals last week, while Chris Gregory is a big mobile forward target. Utilities Michael Brighton and Matt Schilling are good at filling holes at either end of the ground, meaning these two sides are fairly evenly matched at this point. It is hard to pick a winner – so we’ll go with home side Lameroo.

Pinnaroo v Murrayville –  This is a crucial game for both sides. Murrayville will be desperately seeking a second win, while the Supa Roos will want to consolidate their spot in the top four. A win this week will give Pinnaroo a chance of hunting for the double chance. Wade Nickolls has been getting plenty of time on the ground, while brother Chad is the second best ruckman in the league – giving Pinnaroo a lethal combination. Sunyl Vogt, Brett Gum and Leith Dabinett are all lethal on-ballers and will give the home side an edge. For neighbouring Murrayville, the in form players are a little harder to find. Shannon Wyatt and Drew Crane can be tough to beat if there is any substantial delivery, while Shilo Wyatt and Clayton Sporn are consistently in the best players. We think Pinnaroo will take the all important points.

Karoonda v Peake – It is make or break time for these two struggling teams. Victory will keep finals chances alive, while a loss will almost certainly leaving the club thinking about what it has to do to improve for next season. Brodie Chinner and Corey Knight make a good combination for the Magpies, while Abe Tomich has plenty of talent. Apart from the experience of Luke Hocking and Scott Huxtable, there is not much left for the Mags.

For Peake, they will be relying in Mr Consistent Gareth Diprose to get the ball forward, with some help from Kym Marwick and Brendan Pett, so that talented Matt Seyers can kick a bag. Stop Seyers from getting the ball and the win will go Karoonda’s way.

NO UPSETS in ROUND 5 – May 24, 2008

There were no shocks in Round 5 of Mallee Football with wins for Lameroo, Border Downs/Tintinara and Pinnaroo. At Lameroo, the Hawks were pressed at times by Murrayville before winning by 59 points. At half time the homeside led by 19 points and at the last change by 24, before moving away in the last term to win comfortably. For Lameroo, Chris Philby kicked 8 and Jarred Eckerman with five was their best. For Murrayville, Clayton Sporn and Jesse Vaas were best with Shannan Wyatt snaring five goals

At Peake, Border Downs/Tintinara were too good for the homeside winning by 106 points. Just 14 points separated the side at quarter time, but it was the third term which saw the game head BDT’s way, as they added 11.3 to 2.0 to settle the issue. BDT’s Josh Richardson had a day out kicking 11 goals, while Jarvis Webb kicked 5. For Peake Matt Seyers (4 goals) was best, along with Brendan Pett and Gareth Diprose.

In the closest game of the round, Pinnaroo defeated an improved Karoonda by 39 points. It looked like another blowout early as Pinnaroo kicked 7.6 to 0.1 in the first quarter, but the Magpies responded in the second adding 9.1 to 1.1 to take the half time lead by a point. The Supa Roos found form in the second half to add 14.5 to 7.7 to grab a crucial two points and have a two game buffer in third spot. For Pinnaroo, Nathan Wilson kicked five goals while Wade Nickolls was their best. For Karoonda, Corey Knight was in great touch kicking seven goals, with Brodie Chinner their best.

This week, Pinnaroo hosts Murrayville, Border Downs Tintinara head to Lameroo to try and end the Hawks unbeaten run while Peake travels to Karoonda, both teams chasing their second win for the season.

Border Downs/Tintinara	7.3	10.12	21.15	28.16 (184)
Peake	5.1	7.3	9.3	12.6 (78)

Best –  — BDT. J Richardson, M Schilling, J Webb, C Gregory, A Zacker. Peake: M Sayers, B Pett, G Diprose, K Marwich, T Carling. Goals – BDT J Richardson 11, J Webb 5, L Remfry, A Richards, L Richardson, S Binns 2, M Schilling, J Crabb. Peake: M Seyers 4, T Carling 3, T Downs, A Barney, K Heym, K Marwick, J Fiegert.

Lameroo	3.4	8.8	15.12	22.13 (145)
Murrayville	4.3	5.7	11.12	12.14 (86)

Best Lameroo: J Eckermann, C Philbey. C Zerk, J Ridgway, R Maynard. Murrayville: C Sporn, J Vass, T Ford. Shill Wyatt, Shannan Wyatt.  Goals — Lameroo: C Philbey 8, J Eckermann 5, D Worthing, S Agelis, A Penhall 2, J Ridgway, M Benham. N Rundle, M Caulfleld. Murrayville – Shannan Wyatt 5. D Crane, C Sporn 2, R Crane, M O’Malley, J Struck.

Pinnaroo	7.6	8.7	16.10	22.12 (144)
Karoonda	0.1	9.2	13.4	16.9 (105)

Best Pinnaroo: W Nlcholls. L Dabinett, S Kirkbright A Keogh, A Halls. Karoonda – B Chinner, C Knight, J Reid, M Burnett L Hocking. Goals Pinnaroo: N Wilson 5, M Gum 4, A Keogh, M Fischer 3, W Nickolls 2, S Vogt, C Nickolls, L Dabinett, S Kirkbright, M Wilson, G Pahl. Karoonda: C Knight 7. P Leidig 3, R Boughen 2, L Hocking, J Neary, T Wohlfeil, L Neumann.

MAY 24 PREVIEWS – THANKS TO THE RIVERLAND WEEKLY

Match of the round: Karoonda v Pinnaroo – The Supa Roos will be looking to form a beachhead in the top four in this match, while Karoonda needs a win to get off the bottom of the ladder. The Magpies lost last time out but had some big names in Corey Knight, Eugene Wanganeen, Abe Tomich and Bruce Kerr out. Add those players to Brodie Chinner, Luke Hocking and Scott Huxtable, who have been in good form, and Karoonda will be quite competitive. Will it be enough to challenge a Pinnaroo that challenged top side Lameroo last start?  Wade and Chad Nickolls are always a fearsome pair to contend with, while Sunyl Vogt is a solid contributor around the stoppages. With Brett Gum and Braden Thomas playing well, the Supa Roos should be too settled and too good for Karoonda.

Peake v Border Downs Tintinara – The match is at Peake, but that should not pose a problem for a BDT outfit just starting to hit peak form. The Crows’ midfield will be a major problem for the Lions to contend with, Josh and Lachlan Richardson head the field but are more than ably supported by Luke Remfry and Ben Hooper. Matt Seyers has provided a good target up forward for Peake and will be a challenge for the Crows defenders but the ball has to get to him first. The Crows shouldn’t have a problem.

Murrayville v Lameroo – No one would have predicted it would take Murrayville five games to win its first game of the season. Sadly for the Bulldogs, the chances of winning consecutive matches are very remote as they come up against a strong Lameroo side yet to lose a game. Will Dalwood has given good service in the ruck this year and could provide the springboard for the Dogs to score a surprise win. Drew Crane’s presence up forward should also be hard to counter. However, Lameroo are a hard unit to stop with half forward Dan Wohling in sensational form and Brad Zerk playing well. It’s hard not to see Murrayville picking up some more wins this season, just not this time out.

HAWKS CLEAR FLAG FAVOURITES

Lameroo stays unbeaten after Round 4 of the Mallee FL, thanks to a 39 point win at Pinnaroo. The first quarter had action a plenty with the Hawks kicking 10.2 to 6.3 to lead by 23 points. They increased their lead to 7 goals at half time and never looked like losing. Dan Wohling (6 goals) and Brad Zerk were best while for Pinnaroo, Clint Muster and Braden Thomas were named as their better players.

At Coonalpyn, Border Downs/Tintinara were too good for Karoonda, winning by 156 points. Karoonda did well to hold them to a lead of just 40 points at half time, but sadly the damage was done after that. James Simpson kicked 8 goals (22 for the year) for the winners while Lachlan Richardson was best, while for Karoonda, Brodie Chinner and Scott Huxtable did their best to stem the tide.

Last seasons Grand Finalists, Murrayville finally scored a win, by an impressive 10 goal margin over Peake. Peake actually led at quarter time by a point, before Murrayville kicked away in the second adding 9.2 to 3.2. Will Dalwood (4 goals) and Clayton Sporn were best with Drew Crane kicking 6 goals. Matt Seyers (5 goals) was great for Peake as were Brendan Pett and Scott Crouch.

This week see the Mallee FL have a break from the Home and Away season, due to the Inter-League match against Riverland Independent.

Round 4 – MAY 10, 2008

Lameroo	10.2	16.7	20.9	24.11 (155)
Pinnaroo	6.3	9.7	11.12	17.14 (116)

Best – Lameroo: D Wohling, B Zerk, C Welburn, M Ridgway, R Maynard. Pinnaroo: C Muster, B Thomas, W Nickolls, B Gum, M Wilson. Goals – Lameroo: D Wohling 6, C Philby 5, M Ridgeway, R Maynard 3, T Bell 2, S Kerley, K Benham, S Agelis, J Ridgway. Pinnaroo: N Wilson, S Vogt, S Nickolls 3, L Dabbinett 2, C Mester, P Pitkin, A Keough, B Gum, C Gum, W Nickolls.

Murrayville	3.3	12.5	16.10	22.12 (144)
Peake	3.4	6.6	9.7	12.12 (84)

Best – Murrayville: W Dalwood, C Sporn, K Wyatt, D Crane, C Webb. Peake: M Seyers, B Pett, S Crouch, G Reynolds, N Spry. Goals – ­Murrayville: D Crane 6, S Wyatt, W Dalwood, D Fenoughty, M O’Malley, C Edwards 2, R Crane, B Wyatt. Peake: M Seyers 5, S Crouch, B Pett, T Downs 2, K Marwik.

Border Downs/Tintinara	5.5	9.7	21.9	28.15 (183)
Karoonda	1.1	3.3	3.3	4.3 (27)

Best – BDT: L Richardson, J Richardson, L Renmfry, J Webb, B Hooper. Karoonda: B Chinner, S Huxtable, L Hocking, R Boughen, M Burnett. Goals – BDT: J Simpson 8, L Richardson, J Richardson 4, A Richards 3, C Gregory, M Schilling, J Zacker, L Remfry 2, M Vandeleur, B Hooper. Karoonda: N Kambuts 3, B Chinner.

Round 3 – MAY 3, 2008

Pinnaroo scored its second win of the season with a 16 point victory at Peake. With scores level at half time at 6.4 each, Pinnaroo exploded in the third term adding 10.2 to 2.3. Peake came back hard in the last term, kicking 7.2 but the deficit was just too much for them to make up. Alan Halls was best for Pinnaroo, while Mark Gum kicked four goals. Peake’s best were Travis Carling and Gareth Diprose.

Big margins were the order of the day in the other games, with Lameroo overpowering Karoonda by 189 points, kicking 13.2 to 1.3 in the third quarter. Dan Wohling (6 goals) was best afield, with the veteran Rodney Maynard kicking five. Brodie Chinner and Scott Hutable were best for Karoonda.

At Tintinara, James Simpson had a day out, kicking nine goals in his teams 94 point win over Muurayville. Jarvis Webb and Simpson were the best two for Border Downs/Tintinara, while for Murrayville, James Beckman and Damien Fenoughty were best.

This week, Murrayville host Peake, Border Downs/Tintinara plays Karoonda at Coonalpyn and the unbeaten Lameroo visits Pinnaroo.

Pinnaroo	3.4	6.4	16.6	18.7 (115)
Peake	3.4	6.4	8.7	15.9 (99)

Best – Pinnaroo: A Halls, S Kirkbright, B Gum, S Vogt, W Nickolls Peake: T Carling, G Diprose, M Seyers, K Marwick, B Carling. Goals – Pinnaroo: M Gum 4, A Keogh, S Kirkbright, M Wilson, A Hall 2, W Nickolls, S Vogt, C Nickolls, M McKenzie, N Wilson, C Gum. Peake: D Marrett, M Seyers, T Carling 3, T Downs 2. S Morris, K Manvick, A Retalik, B Peat.

Lameroo	5.6	13.8	26.10	36.11 (227)
Karoonda	0.4	2.5	3.8	5.8 (38)

Best – Lameroo: D Wohling, B Zerk. C Welburn, R Maynard, L Abbott. Karoonda: B Chinner, S Huxtable, M Burnett, P Ladle, K Kropinyeri. Goals – Lameroo: D Wohling 6, R Maynard 5, A Penhall, S Kerley, J Eckerman 4, M Ridgeway, J Ridgeway 3, C Welburn, S Agelis, L Andrewartha, M Caulfield. Karoonda – T Wohlfeil 2, M Burnett, J O’Loughlin.

Border Downs/Tintinara	7.4	12.9	17.15	23.18 (156)
Murrayville	3.1	5.3	6.5	9.8 (62)

Best — BDT: J Webb, J Simpson, J Richardson, B Hooper, J Zacker. Murrayville: J Beckmann, D Fenoughty, W Dalwood, J Vass, C Sporn. Goals — BDT: J Simpson 9, J Zacker 7, M Vandeleur 3, J Richardson 2, S Schulz, J Webb. Murrayville: M O’Malley 3, C Sporn, W Dalwood 2. S Wyatt.

MAY 3 PREVIEWS

Match of the round: Peake v Pinnaroo –  An important game for two teams coming off disappointing losses in round two. Pinnaroo would be extremely disheartened by their big loss to Border Downs Tintinara, going down by 98 points. Matt Seyers debuted for the Lions last week, kicking four goals, while Brendan Pett is in good touch, as is the ever consistent Daniel Marrett. Peake’s big problem will be nullifying the huge height advantage provided by Wade and Chad Nickolls, who week in and week out give rover Sunyl Vogt excellent service. Strong performances from youngsters Thomas Keogh and Matthew Wilson, following on from last week’s good games, will show they have truly arrived as senior players. If Peake want to play finals football, a home win against Pinnaroo is a must to prove they are serious contenders, nonetheless, Pinnaroo should have its second win up by the end of the game.

The other games: Lameroo v Karoonda –   The Hawks has opened up with two straight wins and the style in which they’ve achieved it has them already being touted as premiership favourites for 2008. Karoonda took advantage of a ‘Craneless’ Murrayville to record their first win of the season last weekend and will be confident. However, they will need more than confidence against a Lameroo side featuring the likes of forward Chris Philbey, who scored seven goals last week, Mail Medal winner Shaun Walker and ageless Rod Maynard, fresh from his 200th game for the Hawks last week. Luke Hocking, the talented Corey Knight and Brodie Chinner will need to be right on song. The Hawks to win by plenty.

 BDT v Murrayville –  Murrayville has surprisingly started the season with two straight losses – it seems unlikely that BDT will allow the Bulldogs to open their account this week. The Crows are currently four quarter performers, while Murrayville has struggled to put together a strong half of football. Mark Vandeleur, Lachlan and Josh Richardson are in good touch for BDT, with plenty of support for them in the midfield. Luke Kirkbright has been a lone shining light for the Bullies at this early stage and will be rejoined in the side by Rian and Drew Crane and Damien Fenoughty this week.Only a full commitment to the cause from Murrayville will prevent BDT from taking the points in this one.

Round 2 – April 26, 2008

Karoonda	1.4	8.7	9.9	15.12 (102)
Murrayville	6.1	10.1	11.6	12.8 (80)

Best – Karoonda: C Knight, L Hocking, J Reid, B Chinner, M Burnett.  Murrayville – L Kirkbright, W Dalwood. K Wyatt, C Edwards. Goals – Karoonda: C Knight 3, B Chinner, D Thomas, L Neumann, P Leidig 2, L Hocking, S Huxtable, M Burnett, R Zadow. Murrayville: M O’Malley 4, C Edwards 3, C Sporn 2, Darcey Crane, L Kirkbright, J Willersdorf, W Dalwood.

Lameroo	7.2	11.11	18.14	22.19 (141)
Peake	1.5	3.8	5.9	11.12 (78)

Best – Lameroo: S Agelis, S Walker, C Philbey, M Benham. N Rundle. Peake: D Marrett, B Pett, N Spry, M Sayers, M Wilson. Goals – Lameroo: C Philbey 7, S Agelis 5, J Ridgway 3, N Rundle 2, D Wholing. Peake: M Sayers 4, T Carling 3. B Pett, J Fiegert, K Marwick, T Downs.

Border Downs/Tintinara	6.5	10.9	16.11	25.16 (166)
Pinnaroo	3.2	5.2	9.7	10.8 (68)

Best -­ BDT: L Richardson, M Vanderleur, J Richardson, A Freeman, L Remfry. Pinnaroo: S Vogt. M Wilson, B Moyle, B Gum, T Keogh. Goals – BDT: M  Vandeleur 6, A Freeman 5, C Gregory 4, J Richardson 3, J Zacker, J Simpson 2, L Remfry, L Richardson, J Michael. Pinnaroo: T Keogh 3, S Kirkbright, M Wilson, M Thiel, C Nickolls, A Keogh, S Vogt, M Gum.

APRIL 26 PREVIEWS

Match of the round: Pinnaroo v Border Downs Tintinara – The home side will run into this match as favourites after what was in the end a convincing 34 point victory over rivals Murrayville in the opening round. Under Rick Carrick, the Supa Roos appear to have picked up their fitness over the summer and with the likes of young players Allen Halls, Brett Gum and Clint Muster adding pace to the side, they look all the better for it. Also impressive was the electric skills of Martin Fischer, the youngster kicking six goals (following four goals in the colts) from a flank.

Old stager Sunyl Vogt was also in good touch for the Supa Roos and it is he who BDT are going to have to contain to prevent Pinnaroo from kicking a winning score. BDT will have a number of players returning after missing the opening game for a wedding, while Lachlan Richardson was in good touch in the Crows’ first up loss. Michael Brighton was also in good form, while James Simpson also played well. Experience could prove the key here, with BDT by far the more experienced side, but with Vogt and Wade Nickolls on hand and playing at home, the Roos should see the Crows handed a second successive loss. 

Other matches: Murrayville v Karoonda – The Bulldogs would be more than smarting after their first round loss to Pinnaroo last weekend, so you can guarantee they will come out firing against Karoonda. Jimmy Struck proved elusive for Murrayville in his first game for them, while Luke Kirkbright as usual was very good. However, a siege of Cranes will be missing for this weekend, with a number of the family attending a wedding, and that will leave a big hole in the side. The Magpies, also first round losers, will have home ground advantage and will be looking to make their mark on the competition. Abe Tomich will be the man to watch, with captain Simon Martin leading from the front. Whatever the result, one team will be without a win after this weekend.

Lameroo v Peake – Lameroo should win this game against an improved Peake, who opened up with a win. The Hawks have plenty of skill, with regular stars Brad Zerk and Shaun Walker firing in the first round. The ‘Old Man’ Rod Maynard still has more than a passing influence on the game. So Peake will have their work cut out for them if they are to knock off the Hawks. It will be up to Brendan Pett, Daniel Marrett and Mark Tootell to lead the way.

Round 1 – April 19, 2008

Pinnaroo	3.2	8.7	11.13	17.17 (119)
Murrayville	2.4	7.11	11.13	11.19 (85)

Best — Pinnaroo: S Vogt, C Muster, B Gum, W Nickolis, B Moyle. Murrayville: L Kirkbright, J Struck, J Beckmann, J Vass, R Crane. Goals – – Pinnaroo: M Fisher 6, M Gum 3, C Muster, S Vogt 2, W Nickolls, A Halls, C Nickels, A Keogh, C Gum. Murrayville: J Struck 3, W Dalwood 2, R Crane, C Sporn, M O’Malley, J Willersdorf, S Wyatt.

Lameroo	5.3	7.3	11.6	15.13 (103)
Border Downs/Tintinara	1.2	4.7	9.7	14.10 (94)

Best – Lameroo: B Zerk, S Walker, J Eckermann, R Maynard, J Ridgway. BDT: J Crabb, L Richardson, C Kennett, M Brighton, J Simpson. Goals – Lameroo: M Benham 3, C Philbey, J Ridgway, R Maynard, D Wohling, J Eckermann 2, M Ridgway, A Penhall. BDT: A Freeman 4, J Simpson 3, S  Binns 2, J Zacker, C Gregory, M Kempe, J Crabb, J Brock.

Peake	3.6	6.11	10.11	13.15 (93)
Karoonda	2.1	5.2	8.7	10.9 (69)

Best – Peake: B Pett, D Marrett, T Carting, N Spry. J Ling. Karoonda: E Wanganeen, B Kerr, B Chinner, C Knight, P Leidig. Goals – Peake: D Marrett, M Tootell 3, S Jolly 2, A Retallic 2, J Ling, A Frith, J Feigert. Karoonda: C Knight 4, P Leidig 3, J Neary 2, A Tomich.

Player influx delays merge by countryfooty reporter ZOE HOWARD

The Karoonda Districts Football Club has managed to delay a seemingly inevitable merge with another club this year. Low player numbers meant they may have been forced to merge with another club in the Mallee Football League. They have recruited seven or eight players to their senior side who will not only fill up spots on the list, but Karoonda Districts Football Club President, Ty Mickan, also believes they will be worthy contributors. “We’ve got some talented players there and they will be a big boost,” he said. He adds, “It’s a team game and you’ve just got to see how it all gels together.”

Mickan said the club will look at whether a merger will be necessary in the future, but things are looking up for now at least this season.

Past President and match committee member, David Arbon, said Karoonda have also managed to recruit some juniors from Murray Bridge for their Colt’s team. “We’re pretty confident we’ll have a Colt’s team as well,” Arbon said.

Coach Ty Mickan believes one thing that is important and will help a lot is the introduction of more structured training for the club’s Adelaide-based players.

It is important for the players to train together now more than ever as it is the first the club will have recruits that have no connection to the club.

“With our recruits, they’ve always had some sort of a connection with our club, whether it be a friend of a friend or they went to school with someone,” Mickan said. “We have players that will arrive at the club not knowing anybody,” he said.

The Karoonda Districts Football Club has recently appointed SANFL Life Member, Leighton Huxtable as coach. Mickan believes he brings a lot of positives to the club, “He’s got a lot to do with football at a higher level and he knows a lot of people.

“He has been a saviour really for us but of course the tool of his trade, apart from his connections, is his money,” he said.

Mickan believes that many of the problems with lack of players comes down to money and Karoonda, along with other clubs in the league, are “only as strong as our chequebooks really.”

Mickan cites a number of issues, such as farms getting larger and therefore there are fewer families in the district, as a reason for lack of player numbers.

“Our society is changing but our requirements to build four football teams each week hasn’t changed,” he said.

Mickan believes other clubs will find themselves in the same position as Karoonda in the next few years.

“We all realise the league is not as healthy as what it was five years ago and things need to change,” he said.

“I think that the key to successful leagues in our area is to move with the times and we need to re-evaluate the league and restructure it so it becomes more viable,” he said.

The delegates from each club have voted to investigate the state of the league with the SANFL and other leagues.  

For now, at least, things are looking promising for Karoonda but they’re willing to put in the work necessary to improve the club.

“We’re planning on going again next year so we’ll have a lot of work to do as the year goes on,” said David Arbon. The influx of players has helped in the short-term and Karoonda are realistic, yet hopeful for the season ahead. “We don’t expect to be competing in the finals but you never know, you never know what could happen,” said club President, Ty Mickan.