Football
2 July, 2025
Pimpinio overcome Natimuk United
Pimpinio secured their seventh win of the season in men’s senior football as they defeated Natimuk United on Saturday in round 12 of the Horsham District Football Netball League.
The final score was Pimpinio 15.9 (99) to Natimuk’s 7.9 (51).
Playing at home, Pimpinio established an early 19-8 lead at the first break before Natimuk, rolling on from the high of last week’s win over Harrow Balmoral, fought back, as the Tigers went into half-time with a small 38-36 lead.
But Pimpinio demonstrated why they are a potential contender for later in the year, posting a 30-1 third-quarter effort before putting the game to bed in the final quarter.
For Pimpinio, Matt Rosier and Thomas Baker were named best players, while Oscar Miller and Liam Klowss were Natimuk’s best.
Rosier led the Tigers with four goals, while William (Billy) Taylor booted three majors for the Rams.
Guy Smith, coach of Pimpinio, said he was happy with the second-half effort after a disappointing start.
“Our first half, we struggled to get into the game and we were second to the ball a lot of the time,” Smith said.
“Natimuk used the ball well and we couldn’t really get our hands on it.
“We had to give the team a bit of a shake-up at half-time and change things around a little bit and they came out banging.
“In the third quarter we had 11 scoring shots to one so the game totally turned around.”
Smith identified Thomas Baker’s play in the ruck as pivotal in helping secure the win.
“Tommy Baker in the ruck was probably the turning point for us,” Smith said.
“I used him as a part-time ruckman last year so he knows what to do, and he didn't lose a tap for the whole game.
“He was brilliant.”
The win sees Pimpinio remain fourth on the league ladder while Natimuk drop to eighth.