BALRANALD remain within striking distance of ladder leaders Kerang, following a commanding 62-point win over the Mallee Eagles at Greenham Park.
The home side extended their lead each quarter, with only their inaccuracy in front of goal preventing the margin from blowing out further, with the final score 11.18 (84) to 3.4 (22).
Balranald dominated the final 30 minutes, holding the Eagles scoreless while registering 13 scoring shots of their own (five goals, eight behinds).
Ben Fuller returned for his first game since the round 6 loss to Kerang and not only kicked five goals, but provided the Roos with the dominant marking target they’ve been missing up forward in recent weeks.
While Balranald were missing Matthew Neagle, their class and depth through the midfield proved too strong for the visitors, with Jack Salau, Kobe Lloyd, Ethan Gant and Toby Lay also among the better players.
Their ability to not only win the contested ball around the stoppages, but then run and spread from the contest was too much for the young Eagles.
Harry Allen returned from injury in a hybrid forward-midfield role and was one of three Eagles to hit the scoreboard, along with Andrew McDonald and Brent Macleod.
Zac O’Meara continued his good form off half-back and was a clear standout for the visitors, while Wes Bennett returned to form in his second game back from knee injury to also be among the better players, along with Paul Davis, Brett Thomas, Liam Drummond and Darcy McGregor.
The Eagles’ job of securing their third win of the season won’t get any easier, with the Lalbert-based side set to host Woorinen this weekend, while Balranald will travel to Nyah to face the Demons in yet another must-win game in their battle for top spot.
FINAL SIREN
| Balranald | 2.1 | 4.7 | 6.10 | 11.18 | 84 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mallee Eagles | 1.1 | 2.2 | 3.4 | 3.4 | 22 |
VOTES
3 – Ben Fuller (Balranald)
2 – Jack Salau (Balranald)
1 – Toby Lay (Balranald)
