Sport
7 July, 2026
Second quarter dominance proves decisive for Saints
Reigning premiers Trentham further consolidated their place among the competition’s leading teams with a convincing 70-point victory over Avoca at the Avoca Public Park on Saturday.
Despite a spirited effort from the Bulldogs, the Saints’ superior class and relentless forward pressure proved too much as they ran out comfortable 20.13.(133) to 10.3.(63) winners.
Trentham made an early statement, kicking four goals to two in the opening quarter to establish a 13-point lead.
Their midfield controlled the clearances and gave their dangerous forwards plenty of opportunities, while Avoca relied on the efforts of Daniel Howell, Alexander Hay and Byron Wynd to remain within striking distance.
The visitors broke the game open before half time with a dominant second quarter, booting seven goals to one.
James Regan was at his brilliant best inside 50, while Jake Keogh and Joel Dovaston continually capita-lised on quality delivery from the Saints’ midfield. Trentham’s 51-point half time lead put the game firmly in their control.
The Bulldogs responded after the main break, producing their best football of the afternoon with three goals in the third quarter to match Trentham’s four and show plenty of fight around the contest.
Hay was influential through the midfield, while Toby Beavis and Joel Howell also provided valuable drive.
Any hopes of a late comeback were quickly extinguished as Trentham finished strongly with five goals in the final term to complete another impressive performance.
Regan starred up forward with six goals, while captain Dovaston added four and Keogh finished with three.
Joel Cowan, Taylor Ford, Edward Fanning and Cody Young were also outstanding contributors as the Saints again displayed the depth that has made them one of the competition’s benchmark sides.
For Avoca, Wynd was named best afield, with Daniel Howell, Hay, Beavis, Alexander Riches and Joel Howell all producing determined performances. The Bulldogs finished with 10 goals despite limited opportunities and continued to show plenty of resilience against one of the league’s strongest outfits.