Sport
21 July, 2026
Comeback keeps Maldon’s finals hopes alive
Maldon produced a stirring final-quarter comeback to defeat Dunolly and resuscitate their finals hopes from the brink of unsalvageable in a thrilling three-point triumph.
The Eagles led at every change and appeared on track to claim a deserved victory, but the Bombers surged home with five goals in the final term to steal the four points in a dramatic finish.
Dunolly made an excellent start, playing direct and attacking football to kick four straight goals in the opening quarter. Maldon had its opportunities but struggled to convert, managing 1.5 as the Eagles took a 13-point advantage into the first break.
The Eagles continued to control proceedings during the second term. They added another two goals while restricting Maldon to just one, extending their lead to 20 points by half-time.
Mitchell Goodwin was causing major problems for the Maldon defence and proved to be Dunolly’s most dangerous forward throughout the afternoon. The Eagles were also receiving strong contributions around the ground from Jay McDonald, Joel Fisher and captain Lachlan Tranter.
Maldon began to work its way back into the contest after the main break. The Bombers kicked three goals during the third quarter and created several other opportunities, but their inaccuracy prevented them from making greater inroads.
Dunolly responded with two goals of its own and carried a 12-point advantage into the final change, leading 8.4.(52) to 5.10.(40).
The match changed dramatically during the final quarter as Maldon lifted its pressure and began winning more possession through the midfield.
The Bombers attacked relentlessly and kicked five goals for the term, with Bailey Brown, Harrison Tulloch and Aaron Millen among the players making important contributions in front of goal.
Dunolly refused to surrender and added three goals of its own, but Maldon’s greater number of scoring opportunities eventually proved decisive.
The Bombers hit the front late and held on through a tense final few minutes to secure a memorable 10.13.(73) to 11.4.(70) victory.
Damian Wust led the way for Maldon with a strong performance and received excellent support from Coby Bennett, Darcy Kelly, Billy Johns, Callum Buchanan and Tristian Rowe.
Goodwin was outstanding for Dunolly, finishing with seven goals in a superb individual display. McDonald was named the Eagles’ best player, while Fisher, Tranter, Lachlan Watson and Bailey Morton were also prominent.