The under-12 Benalla Black side secured a superb four-point win at the weekend over Mansfield in the elimination final, ensuring they keep their season alive for at least another week. Photos: Kristen Ramage.
For the fourth year in a row, both Benalla junior under-12 sides have competed in week one of the finals.
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And what a display of football they put together, with a full season of hard work, practice and resilience paying off in spades.
Both teams were competitive from the first bounce and never gave up for the full 60 minutes.
As a result, both teams progress to the next week with our under-12 Reds holding onto their second chance advantage.
U12 Blacks vs Mansfield - Elimination Final
Under-12 Benalla Blacks met with Mansfield for the elimination final at WJ Findlay Oval.
Bill Bourke took the lead on getting the first goal on the board, mere minutes into the first quarter, whilst Spencer Whitechurch battled away all day in the engine room.
Harley Kupke and Bourke were outstanding, popping up with key interceptions, while Jack McKenzie was seemingly everywhere. Ted Clancy was phenomenal and led the team by example whilst Max Reynolds came in clutch with an incredible snap off the left boot through the goals under the biggest pressure of the game to take back the lead.
The under-12 Benalla Black side takes in the final instructions prior to the elimination final against Manfield.
It was a tight finish, but the Blacks were able to clinch the win by four points. Massive effort this week, well done everyone, let’s go Blacks!
Goals: Ted Clancy, Dustin Nolan, Max Reynolds, Bill Bourke
Best: Spencer Whitechurch, Harley Kupke, Bill Bourke, Jack McKenzie, Ted Clancy, Max Reynolds
U12 Reds vs College – Qualifying Final
Round one of the finals saw the under-12 Reds travel to Wangaratta to take on College in the qualifying final. It was a hard-fought start to the game, with Benalla managing the only score of the opening quarter, a behind.
The team came out firing in the second quarter, kicking three straight goals to take control of the match. Benalla continued its strong form after half time and finished the game in style, adding another three straight goals in the final quarter to secure an impressive finals victory.
It was a strong all-round team effort, with every player contributing throughout the game.
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