Sport
6 August, 2024
South Bendigo too good for improving Maryborough
Maryborough were outclassed by South Bendigo at Barker Oval Princes Park by 155 points on Saturday.
Despite the result, there were some positives for Maryborough, equalling the most scoring shots they’ve had for the season in their 6.12 (48) to 32.11 (203) loss, but ultimately, the form of Brock Harvey and Steven Stroobants, who combined for 22 goals, proved to be the difference between the two teams.
South Bendigo got off to a fast start by kicking six goals to one in the first term to open up a 30-point lead at the first change.
The Bloods continued on their way in the second term to score the first three goals, before Tom Myers responded in kind to give the Magpies their second of the day. South Bendigo continued to push the pace, and would add a further six goals for the quarter, while the Magpies would add a second for the term thanks to Lachlan Bursill.
With a 73-point lead at the main break, the Bloods weren’t willing to take their foot off the gas, and kicked nine goals in the third term to four behinds to ensure that they would lead by 127 points at the final change.
The last quarter saw the Bloods again score at will, scoring eight goals for the term, but Maryborough, to their credit, fought the game out well.
Matt Johnston would score the Magpies’ first goal of the term, while fill-in players Austin Long and Fraser McKinstry would also hit the scoreboard.
Joel Swatton would provide plenty of drive through the midfield, alongside partner-in-crime Coby Perry, and both would be named as Maryborough’s best two players.
Seb Collins continued his good form in the ruck, while Alex Brown, Beau Trahar and Kya Lanfranchi continued their good form defensively.
Elsewhere, Maryborough’s under 18s fell just 10 points short of recording their second win of the year, with South Bendigo coming from behind to win.
The Magpies led by four points at half time and three points at the final change, but the Bloods were able to find the only two goals of the last term to keep the Magpies at bay.
Ronnie Feeney played well, as did Joe Lovel, Robert Castiglia, Cooper Mark, Bailey Walhouse and Logan Howell, while Tyson Hoban kicked two goals to lead the way for the Magpies.