HARROW-BALMORAL has retained the West Wimmera Shield.
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The only round of football and netball for the Horsham District league at the weekend ended in a 64-point win to the host club against near neighbour Edenhope-Apsley.
The Southern Roos won 13.22 (100) to the Saints’ 5.4 (34).
It was a tense contest to start. The Southern Roos got the jump on the Saints in the first quarter and led by 15 points.
The Saints came out ready to play in the second quarter and scored 3.3 and conceded 1.5.
Harrow-Balmoral led at the main break 4.10 (34) to the Saints’ 4.4 (28).
Roos coach Paul Cleaver said the game appeared to open up in the second half.
In the third quarter, Harrow-Balmoral made a noticeable impact on the scoreboard and managed 4.6 to Edenhope-Apsley’s 1.0.
The Southern Roos managed to keep the Saints scoreless in the final quarter and scored five goals in that term to round out the game.
Cleaver said the Saints arrived at Harrow ready to play.
“It was a struggle to establish our own game in the first half,” he said.
“The second half opened up a bit and that’s where we got away.”
Cleaver said his squad shared the load, which helped grasp the victory.
“I think the (Saints) players who were playing well in the first half lost some legs in the second,” he said.
One of the biggest talking points for the commemorative game was the long-awaited return of on-baller Eric Guthrie.
“He was like a little schoolboy wanting to play with his friends,” Cleaver said.
“He was keen to get out there and have fun. He got to kick three goals.
“For that sort of day, with the former premiership players and the celebration of the amalgamation all going on (for Harrow-Balmoral), I think it was special and important for him to be part of that.”
Jandre Slabbert was named best on field after a strong half-back display.
The on-ball and midfield brigade had a strong day and Robert Mackinnon kicked four goals in the forward line.
“It was an even contribution by the team,” Cleaver said.
Edenhope-Apsley coach Michael Rowe said he was pleased with his team’s effort.
“We matched them in intensity and effort. We let them get away from us in the first quarter but fought back in the second,” he said.
“I am happy with the side. I got more out of this game than I did any other game this year.
“The boys played with spirit and passion from the start to finish.”
Matt Butler was named the Saints’ best after playing an important defensive role on Hugh Douglas, keeping him scoreless.
Defensive work from Dale Smith was notable with James Rowe continuing to perform at half forward.
Young Nathan Richardson had his first game of senior football after performing for the under-17 side.
Richardson played in the forward line and on the wing and Rowe said he didn’t look intimidated by senior football.
Dan Ryan sustained a knee injury early in the first quarter and was unable to play out the match.