Sport
29 April, 2024
Magpies fight hard but outclassed by well-drilled Gisborne
Maryborough were dealt their first loss of the Bendigo Football Netball League A reserve campaign by Gisborne at Gisborne Reserve. Realistically, it was two good quarters from the Bulldogs which allowed them to generate much of the 23-goal deficit...
Maryborough were dealt their first loss of the Bendigo Football Netball League A reserve campaign by Gisborne at Gisborne Reserve.
Realistically, it was two good quarters from the Bulldogs which allowed them to generate much of the 23-goal deficit, but it was still a marker for the Magpies to improve on later in the season.
The Bulldogs got off to a strong start in the early stages, scoring 15 goals to seven, with Megan Kelly and Jordan MacIlwain back in goal. Kelly scored on three occasions, while MacIlwain scored four times.
The second quarter was a power struggle, with the Magpies defending very well, but unable to make use of their opportunities at the other end. As it was, it was a six-goal to five quarter Gisborne’s way, allowing the Bulldogs to extend their lead at the main break, 21-12. Kelly scored four times for the Magpies, while MacIlwain scored once.
The Bulldogs cleared away a little bit more in the third quarter to essentially seal the game as a contest, scoring 15 goals to nine to lead 36-21 at the final change. Kelly added six goals, while MacIlwain scored three times.
The last term was Maryborough’s best offensively of the day, but Gisborne powered on as well, scoring 18 goals to 10 to finish up comfortable winners. Kelly scored on two occasions to make it 15 goals for the day, while MacIlwain scored eight goals in the last to make it 16 for her tally.
Around the club, it was a tough day for the B grade and B reserve team, with B grade losing 70-15, while B reserve would similarly go down, losing 94-18.
The highlights of the day would be the 17 and under team taking a sensational victory against the Bulldogs, allowing them to continue their unbeaten start to the season, careering away after half time to win by six goals after scores were level at the main break.
It’s a big confidence booster for the club, who will now have the challenge of welcoming reigining A reserve premiers Sandhurst to Barker Oval Princes Park on Saturday.