A blistering first term, which produced seven goals to South Bendigo’s two points, put Castlemaine senior footballers in line for a big win on Saturday.
The outcome was never in doubt for the Michael Hartney coached Magpies, and it was only the likely margin that had some spectators playing a guessing game.
Overall a good day for the Magpies at Camp Reserve where conditions were wet, muddy and slippery. There was drizzle all afternoon.
For Castlemaine seniors, coming off a 149-point win at Maryborough, it was the fourth victory for the season.
To add to club momentum, both the Magpie Reserves and Under 18s were able to come out on top in low-scoring encounters.
It’s a holiday in the Bendigo League this weekend for the interleague fixture away against the Victorian Amateur Football League.
Castlemaine wishes all selected players well for this fixture.
The next round of BFL matches in on Saturday, July 13, when Castlemaine goes to Golden Square – a much tougher prospect than in the two outings over the past fortnight.
Saturday was the first real wintry day experienced this season, and crowd numbers at Camp Reserve were understandably affected.
Nevertheless, Magpie supporters were entitled to be happy.
It was precision footy in the first quarter, and the visitors were often caught flat-footed with the Magpies exploiting several avenues to goal.
The lead of 44 points at the first break was extended further in the second term, with the visitors again unable to score any majors.
It’s a long time since Castlemaine has led against a Bendigo-based side by 62 points at half-time.
Scoring momentum slowed down in the third term with each side scoring two goals.
The match finally drew to a close with a final scoreline of 13.14 (92) to 4.6 (30).
The Magpies had plenty of players who played a part, and those who finished as the top six on the ‘best’ list were Callum McConachy, Lloyd Butcher, Liam Williamson, Brodie Byrne, Zavier Murphy and Harrison Sheahan.
Eight different Magpies managed to kick goals, with Kalan Huntly leading the way with three.
Castlemaine is in sixth place on the ladder, and it is mathematically possible for the side to make the finals, but overall improvement is the current aim.
In the curtain raiser, the Magpie Reserves defeated South Bendigo 4.11 (35) to 2.6 (18).
Earlier, the Under 18s saw a 6.9 (45) to 4.5 (29) victory, the young Magpies consolidating fourth place with the incentive of playing finals in this age group.
50th GAME UP
After three seasons with the Magpies, netballer Paige Mitchener played her 50th game for the club and received the plaudits of teammates and supporters.
The speedy midcourter is described as one “who’s personality lights up the court and every training session”.
Despite their best efforts in the conditions, the Magpies were unable to secure a netball victory, though three of the five encounters provided very close finishes.
Scores were: Seniors – South Bendigo won 51-18; A-Reserve 41-40; B grade 40-35; B Reserve 62-17; 17&Under – 39-37.
