Sport
22 July, 2025
Avoca do the season double over the Giants
Avoca have kept their very slim chances of finals alive after a thriller at Hedges Oval, defeating the Maryborough Giants by nine points.
The Bulldogs were leading at half time by 16 points, and it could have been by a much bigger margin if it wasn’t for their inaccuracy.
Giants coach Matthew Walker must have made an inspiring speech at half time, as the Giants came out a different team, taking the lead midway through the quarter after kicking five goals to two.
Mitchell Whelan put the Bulldogs back in front late in the third quarter with a brilliant set shot from the boundary before the Giants’ Brandon Carter kicked a goal after the siren to give the hosts a four-point lead at the final change.
Avoca moved Brayden Northern forward in the last quarter, and he took a pack mark and goaled to put the Bulldogs back in front during the final term.
Atticus Cullinan goaled for the Giants, but the Bulldogs kicked away in the final stages, with Alexander Riches’ long-range goal proving to be the dagger as Avoca recorded their second victory of the season over the Giants.
Avoca named Riley Hamilton as their best player and he was supported by Scott Cawthan, Alex Bowd, Riches, Northern and Brodie Quinlan.
Zackary Lubeek and Whelan both kicked three goals apiece in the Bulldogs’ victory.
Murray Bond led the way for the Giants, along with Jacob Rollason with four goals, Cody Wright, Zayne Earl, Rhys Wagstaff and Scott Miller.
Kaylab Eggers also hit the scoreboard often for the Giants, booting three goals.
