Nagambie runs riot in local derby with Avenel

By Hamish Donaldson

Jul 3, 2023

Caught up: Avenel’s Jake Sutherland is tackled strongly. Photo by Wayne Herring

The spotlight was on Nagambie Recreation Reserve on Saturday afternoon as the highly anticipated Seymour region derby unfolded in the Kyabram District Football League.

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The Swans, who had experienced a series of close losses in recent matches, were determined to cause an upset, while the Lakers had a chance to claim top spot on the table with a win, provided other results went their way.

The game started with an explosive display from Nagambie, leaving Avenel playing catch-up for the remainder of the match.

Spoil: Avenel’s Brett Carroll tries to stop Nagambie’s Brad Smith from marking in the goal square. Photo by Wayne Herring

The Lakers proved a formidable force, triumphing over Avenel 12.22 (94) to 5.4 (34). Tom Barnes stood out on the day, showcasing his skills with an unmatched four goals.

Nagambie’s victory was characterised by a well co-ordinated team attack, with goals coming from multiple sources, making it nearly impossible for Avenel to shut down the scoring.

Player-coach Tyrone Muir was accurate in front of the goal, joining three other Lakers as multiple goal kickers.

Fingertips: Avenel’s Harrison King almost grabs a one-hander. Photo by Wayne Herring

Although Nagambie posed a constant attacking threat in the first quarter, it struggled to convert scoring opportunities into majors, resulting in a score of 2.8 (20).

On the other hand, the Swans had limited chances and managed only a behind.

In the second quarter, Avenel aimed to stem the flow and restrict the Lakers’ goal-scoring opportunities but the home side still extended its lead.

Launching an attack: Avenel's Jesse Nelson moves forward. Photo by Wayne Herring

Neither team would have been satisfied at half time, as Nagambie lamented its inefficiency in front of the goals while Avenel remained goalless.

The Lakers’ goal efficiency improved in the third quarter, converting six majors along with six behinds.

The Swans finally scored their first major during this period but it was their sole contribution to the scoreboard.

Leading from the front: Nagambie player coach Tyrone Muir snaps for goal. Photo by Wayne Herring

In the final quarter, Avenel outscored the Lakers but it was not enough to affect the scoreboard significantly and Nagambie secured a crucial win in its pursuit of top spot.

To achieve a three-way tie at the league’s summit, Nagambie needed Murchison-Toolamba to hand Shepparton East its first loss of the season — and the Grasshoppers delivered, defeating the Eagles 11.8 (74) to 7.6 (48).

Next up, Nagambie faces Tallygaroopna on Saturday afternoon.