Sport
14 July, 2026
Natte’s finals push stampedes over Avoca
Natte Bealiba’s remarkable turnaround from an 0-5 start to the season gathered further momentum on Saturday, comfortably defeating Avoca by 65 points at CHS Broadbent Oval.
The Swans have been one of the competition’s hottest teams over the past five weeks, and another polished team performance saw them strengthen their position inside the top eight.
Natte set the tone from the opening bounce, dominating the midfield and repeatedly driving the ball deep inside 50.
Their relentless pressure and slick ball movement resulted in seven first-quarter goals as they raced to a commanding 37-point lead at the first break.
While Jordan Thomas and Tyson Gray managed to hit the scoreboard for the Bulldogs, Avoca struggled to contain the Swans’ attacking firepower.
The visitors responded with greater intensity in the second quarter, tightening up around the contest and making life more difficult for the Swans.
However, Natte’s defence held firm and three more goals saw the home side extend its advantage to 46 points by half time.
Avoca produced its best football after the main break, showcasing plenty of character while matching Natte’s work rate and booting three goals during the third quarter.
However, every time the Bulldogs threatened to reduce the margin, the Swans responded immediately, adding six goals in the third quarter to put the result beyond doubt.
Nearby lightning strikes at three-quarter time forced the game to be called off before a ball was kicked in the fourth quarter, a peculiar end to a victory that places Natte eight points clear inside the top eight.
The Swans were superb across every line, with Nathan Holt producing arguably his finest senior performance to be named best on ground.
Anderson Pithie, Jack Borchard, Stephen and Thomas Ross all played influential roles, while Will Holt made a stunning return in his first senior appearance since round two, proving almost impossible to contain inside 50.
Holt finished with a match-winning seven-goal haul, providing the focal point of the Swans’ attack in a dominant display. Joshua Ross, Zac Polinelli and Trent Mortlock also made valuable contributions with two goals apiece as Natte finished with 16 majors from a well-balanced team performance.
Despite the defeat, Avoca continued to battle throughout the afternoon. Alexander Riches was outstanding for the Bulldogs and was well supported by Bryce Howell, Daniel Howell, Thomas, Toby Beavis and Mitchell Wardlaw, who all worked tirelessly under constant pressure from the Swans.