The grand final rematch has seen Mulwala defeated in a frustrating game marred by inaccuracy in front of goal.
Congupna came out firing as Mulwala had no response to their accurate kicking for goal in the first quarter as they took a five-goal lead into quarter time.
The entire Mulwala team then responded as they began to win the contested footy around the ground through the usual suspects in Matt Gorman, Max Hemphill and Conor Griffiths.
Dylan McNamara, Harry Meade and Beau Seymour became impassable in the backline as Mulwala fought their way back into the game in the second quarter.
Inaccuracy in front of goal would again be the downfall of the team as they controlled all other facets of the match however kicking 4 goals 8 behinds would leave them still arrears on the scoreboard at half time.
The second half saw Mulwala again control most of the play through the outstanding ruck work and around the ground presence of Brodie Tyson and the hard running of young stars Josh Eder and the returning Zach Scott.
Several injuries meant Mulwala had very few rotations and this showed in the last quarter as the players tired and the classy Congupna forwards were able to maximise their opportunities in front of goal.
Overall, a fantastic fighting effort by the team who were once again left with the disappointment of what could have been had they kicked straight.
It will be a home game against Barooga this week and of course the famous Mulwala Ladies Day will take prime position on the Hill so contact Carz if you haven’t already got your spot booked.
Reserves
Mulwala: 1.4, 3.4, 6.4, 9.6 (60)
Congupna: 3.3, 4.5, 4.7, 5.9 (39)
The reserves were left flat footed at the beginning of the match as Congupna were running through the midfield with purpose making life difficult for the backline.
Three quick goals to Congupna saw them take a handy lead into quarter time as coach Orr called on his players to tighten up and play the hard footy that they have possessed in earlier rounds.
This set the midfield into action as Matt McLachlan and Joe Bland began working over their Congupna opponents and Nathan Beasley, Seb Hargraeves and Tim Cooper took back control of their backline.
Mulwala kicked 3 goals in each of the next 3 quarters as the forward line began to function smoothly with Dylan Robinson proving his class around goals.
Austin Frauenfelder rucked tirelessly all day and Josh Ednie and Jack McDermid found space out on the wings setting up multiple goals that led to a hard-fought victory against quality opposition.
Under 17s
Mulwala: 8.4, 14.10, 18.18, 24.24 (168)
Congupna: 0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.1 (1)
The onslaught was immediate as the young men went to work punishing their Congupna opponents across the field.
The teamwork displayed by the entire list was impressive as there were no cogs in the wheel not spinning at maximum velocity.
The rare occasion the ball entered the backline it was quickly mopped up by Charlie Drake or Luke Abikhair and the midfield moved the ball smoothly across the ground and into the forward line making it very easy for the likes of Jai Sneddon and Max O’Bryan to capitalize in front of goal.
Baxter Donovan was electrifying at CHF and anything that hit the ground was quickly set upon and converted by Sonny O’Bryan or Levi Saunders.
A fantastic team effort that led to a comprehensive victory.
Under 14s
Mulwala: 1.0, 2.5, 4.8, 5.10 (40)
Congupna: 0.0, 2.2, 3.5, 4.6 (30)
The young Lions came into the game confidently even though they were missing several of the superstars of the team.
This confidence was short lived as Congupna came to play and the Mulwala team had to fight hard to score the only goal of the first quarter to Henry Donovan.
Hugo Varndell, Wally Hammon and Logan Cooper were working overtime in the backline as Congupna outscored the boys in the second quarter.
The masterstroke of sending Hayden Stephens into the ruck kicked the midfield into gear as Byron Dodd and Levi Purtle began to run rampant and Henry Donovan and Benny Ferguson asserted themselves in the forward line.
A tough victory highlights to the boys that they still need to work hard to win matches.
Netball
A Grade
Mulwala 52 def Congupna 26
Cold conditions and loud trains did not distract our girls from coming out firing and focusing on the end result.
Not even a bee in the ear to Steph H stopped her from having a sensational game. Massive shout out to our first aider, Trev, for being ready on the sidelines for bee removal.
Ellie Dickins is fast, making defense her spot. Jedda Nolen had more intercepts than our stay sheet could handle. And Bree was consistent all day. Our juniors will learn so much from these defenders.
Congratulations to Iris Elliott, who made her A Grade debut.
Awards: Jedda Nolan, Ellie Dickins, Bree Boyer.
B Grade
Mulwala 43 def Congupna 31
We are so happy with today's results. However, we have to give all of our praise to our incredible defenders. You worked tirelessly all day. Congratulations to Mia Elliott who had her B Grade debut. We were so impressed with your willingness to listen and learn from your peers. We are excited about next week's mentoring round where our girls will be working with the 15s.
Awards: Cara Wood, Sharni Dickins, Mikyah Frauenfelder..
C Grade
Mulwala 37 def by Congupna 42
Topsy Turvey game for the girls today. Defenders Mel, Monty, Eliza and Kealy all working well and adapting to different combinations. As did our shooters Brooke, Piper and Tahlia. Mid court of Abbey and Catherine with Ruby high work rate kept us in the game. Unfortunately, a few hiccups today allowed Congupna the win. Looking forward to next week.
Awards: Eliza Robiliard, Abbey Mathews, Montana Russell.
C Reserve
Mulwala 38 def by Congupna 49
The girls worked hard displaying tight defensive pressure and accuracy which kept them in the game, unfortunately Congupna got away in the last quarter, a huge thankyou to Jemma Riches and Alannah Smith for stepping up this week to help out, your confidence and contribution was amazing, a great team effort by all.
Awards: Jemma Riches, Alannah Smith, Laura Nunn.
Under 17s
Mulwala 38 def Congupna 37
It was such a good game with the under 17 girls displaying incredible resilience and determination as they faced a tough challenge in each quarter. Despite being down each quarter leading up to the final one, the girls refused to give up and fought hard until the very end.
Their strategic plays and strong defense kept the pressure on their opponents throughout the game. The girls showcased their unwavering spirit and teamwork, never letting the scoreboard dictate their effort. Going into the last quarter with Mulwala being down by 5 the girls rallied together and unleashed a remarkable display of skill and determination. Each player gave their all on the court. With the girls winning by 1 sending their supporters into a frenzy of cheers and applause.
Awards: Myley McGlynn, Alannah Smith, Jemma Riches.
Under 15s
Mulwala 45 def Congupna 11
This week, we had a solid win. Everyone played their role, and it was a great team effort. The girls adapted to changes, and many girls proved they could play anywhere. Well done, all!
Award: Maisee Pell, Summer Ibbott, Marlie Smith.
Under 13s
Mulwala 35 def Congupna 5
In a commanding display of skill and teamwork the under 13 girls had an impressive 42 to 5 victory.
The girls showcased their dominance on the court, with strong defenders shutting down offensive attempts and goal shooters seamlessly converting opportunities into points.
Their cohesive performance underscored their synergy, leaving their opponents struggling to keep up throughout the match.
Awards: Rianna Ewert, Laylor Dunlop, Macy Robinson, Natalie Linehan.
