By Trevor Jackson
WHILE the Round 9 catch-up match in the Western Border Football League was reduced to just two games, there was no shortage of entertainment at Blue Lake Sports Park and Vansittart Park.
Casterton Sandford forfeited its game against West Gambier due to the ongoing Victorian coronavirus lockdown, which threw an air of disappointment across the league.
All involved would have hoped to see the Cats finish the season, but that now looks doubtful, dependant on how the COVID-19 outbreak runs across the border.
It was a return to play after a couple of weeks off due to South Australia’s own lockdown, which has put pressure on to finish the season.
The remainder of the season itself could be in doubt, with finals fast approaching and a window of opportunity to play those out, rather than attempt to play the final few minor rounds and risk another coronavirus shutdown.
Time will tell.
Meanwhile, South Gambier claimed a hard-fought victory over East Gambier out at Blue Lake Sports Park, with just seven points separating the two sides at the final siren.
In a low-scoring affair, South’s 8.6 (54) was enough to do the job over East’s 6.11 (47).
South had its head in front by a solitary point at the first break, then extended that to six at half time.
The Bulldogs refused to let the home side make a break and trailed by just five points at the final break, which set up an exciting final term.
East had its chances in the final stanza, as South managed just two shots on goal – both successful – while the Bulldogs banged on one major score and four minors.
Demons’ coach Brayden Kain kicked three majors, while Brodie Foster returned and slotted home two.
Matt Scanlon continued to make his presence felt back at the Kennel, with three goals, while coach Matt Willson added two.
Over at Vansittart Park another classic was unfolding.
North won the day – 12.4 (76) to 10.13 (73) – but it was the fast-finishing Saints who threatened to steal the chocolates as the clock wound down.
After an even first term, the Tigers opened up a handy lead and looked to have the game in hand.
At the final break the margin had crept out to 24 points and the home side was in control.
However, Saints coach Clint Gallio rallied his troops and staged an exciting comeback, with a six-goal quarter to fall agonisingly short of the line.
North coach Justin McConnell led the way for the victors with five goals, while Sam Stafford added three.
For the Saints, Gene Robinson was well held, but crept five goals closer to the magical 100 season milestone, now sitting precariously on 77.
Frazer Bradley chipped in with two.
