James Murphy
CASTERTON SANDFORD 13.7 (85) d EAST GAMBIER 12.5 (77)
THEY were pushed to the line, but for the second time this year the Cats proved themselves over their Bulldog rivals.
Unlike the Round 2 clash, Casterton Sandford ventured away from the comforts of Island Park, with East Gambier hosting the match at McDonald Park.
It did not matter in the end, with the Cats out of the gate well to establish an 11-point lead by quarter time.
However, the Bulldogs have been a harder nut to crack of late, despite their winless record for 2023.
They turned it on in the second term and a five-goal quarter tightened things right up.
The Cats added three majors for the period and at half time the guests were up by a solitary point.
Hamish McCrae was already making an impact for the Cats as he continues a stellar season, with his ruck work and finesse up forward top notch.
He finished the day with an impressive seven goals and the best-on-ground honours in another strong outing from the star.
After half time the arm wrestle continued, but the Cats were able to edge out to a handy eight-point lead heading into the last dance.
An even fourth quarter unfolded and with three goals at both ends the Victorians remained on top for their third win this year.
Joining McCrae among the Cats’ best were other regular contributors, with Diarmid Cleary, Michael Krieger and Dylan Ayton stand outs once again.
Nick Schembri stall tall in defence, while Justin Carlin rounded out the best after a strong performance in the centre.
The Bulldogs were also best served by players more than familiar with the best player’s list.
John Forster’s trademark intensity on and around the ball was on full show and his effort earned him the best-on-ground mantle.
Carl Slape was strong as ever in the ruck, while Nick Lock, Patrick Hatch, Frazer Scanlon and Jack Lawrence rounded out the best.
Up front it was Jake Dowdy who led the charge with four goals, while Slape also had multiple with a pair of majors.
All teams now enter a bye for the long weekend, but both East and Casterton Sandford should be represented in the Interleague side which will play in Bordertown.
