Sport
26 May, 2026
Maryborough’s junior sides debut in grades
Following four grading rounds, the Maryborough Football Netball Club’s under 12s and under 14s junior football teams played their first games in their official grade last weekend.
Before they could hit the field, Maryborough’s under 10s travelled to Dower Park on Saturday for their first away game of the season against Kangaroo Flat and returned home with plenty to celebrate.
The young Magpies displayed excellent teamwork across all four quarters, sharing the football well and working hard for one another around the ground.
Goals were spread among several players, highlighting the even contribution across the team in an impressive overall performance.
Coaches and supporters would have been pleased with the effort, enthusiasm and teamwork shown, with the side proving too strong on the day.
The under 12s also had an away day on Saturday to Harry Trott Oval to face South Bendigo in a contest that was far closer than the final scoreboard suggested.
The Magpies controlled large portions of play and created numerous opportunities, but South Bendigo proved more efficient when chances presented, running out as 6.8.(44) to 2.4.(16) winners.
Charlie Smith was outstanding from the opening bounce, producing arguably his best game of the season with a dominant display across the ground. He was well supported by teammates who battled strongly throughout and never stopped competing.
Despite the result, there were encouraging signs in the way the young Magpies moved the ball and worked together, giving the side plenty to build on heading into the coming rounds.
On Sunday, the under 14s looked to follow in the footsteps of their under 10 compatriots as they met Kangaroo Flat at Dower Park in what proved to be a competitive contest for much of the afternoon.
The Magpies started strongly and were rewarded for their effort, taking an early lead into quarter time through hard running and pressure around the ball.
A costly second quarter allowed Kangaroo Flat to gain momentum and take control, creating a gap that would prove difficult to reel back in.
To the Magpies’ credit, the side responded well after the main break, with Joravar Dhanju producing an electrifying performance off half back, repeatedly driving the ball forward and sparking his teammates. His willingness to take the game on continues to show exciting signs for the future.
Freddy Bates also impressed with his fierce tackling and commitment around the contest. Despite the spirited comeback effort in the third term, the Magpies were unable to maintain the momentum into the final quarter, with Kangaroo Flat eventually recording a 8.14.(62) to 4.2.(26) victory.