UPDATE: The Coleambally Blues clinched their first finals berth in six years with a decisive victory over Charles Sturt University (CSU) at Peter Hastie Oval on July 15, 2023. The Blues turned around a challenging month, defeating CSU 10.9 (69) to 7.9 (51) in a must-win match.
In a critical showdown, Coleambally needed a strong performance following two back-to-back losses that threatened their position in the top five. Coach Tom Groves emphasized the importance of a solid start, which set the tone for the match and allowed the Blues to apply early scoreboard pressure.
Groves stated,
“I was really pleased with that first quarter… it was really good to respond and put that scoreboard pressure onto them. I’m just so happy.”
The team showcased remarkable depth, with five under-18 players, including Damon Pound making his first-grade debut, stepping up to the challenge. Nick Cooper was instrumental, kicking the opening goal and assisting in several others, helping the Blues to a commanding 19-point lead within the first 12 minutes.
The first quarter ended with Coleambally leading by eight points. Cooper continued to shine, extending the lead in the second quarter. Despite a lackluster second term, the Blues surged ahead in the third, scoring five goals to one, effectively sealing their victory and demonstrating newfound composure.
Groves noted,
“We knew they were going to come, but we sort of weathered that storm… especially when you’re coming into this business end you have to weather the storm of these tough sides and hit the scoreboard when you have opportunities.”
Although CSU’s Nash Dignan fought back with three goals in the final quarter, it wasn’t enough to prevent a third straight defeat for the Bushpigs. This loss now places CSU’s position in the top three in jeopardy, with both Marrar and Coleambally trailing closely.
The implications of this match are significant as both teams head into the final round of the season. CSU faces an uphill battle against unbeaten East Wagga-Kooringal, while Coleambally will square off against Barellan.
FULL-TIME SCORE:
Coleambally Blues Seniors: 3.2, 4.4, 9.7, 10.9 (69)
CSU Bushpigs Seniors: 2.0, 3.4, 4.6, 7.9 (51)
GOALS:
Coleambally: S. Daniel 2, N. Cooper 2, N. Graham 2, T. Blissett 1, A. Pound 1, D. Mader 1, B. Argus 1
CSU: N. Dignan 3, O. Preston 1, H. Wooden 1, H. Warwick 1, J. Collingridge 1
The stakes are high for the final round of the season, and fans will be eagerly watching to see who secures the coveted finals spots.
