Sport
28 July, 2026
Maryborough juniors face tough opponents
The Maryborough under 10s were the club’s only junior side to enjoy a home game at the weekend, taking on a strong Marong outfit at Princes Park.
The young Magpies produced an impressive team performance and continued to show the development that has been evident throughout the season. Jack Quinlan brought plenty of energy to the group, while the classy Harry Smith again showed why he is regarded as a player to watch in the future.
It was another encouraging performance from the youngest Magpies, with the entire team contributing.
Maryborough’s under 12s faced a tough assignment when they travelled to take on ladder leaders St Killians.
To their credit, the Magpies took the contest right up to the home side and remained well in the game at quarter-time. Another competitive second term was only undone when St Killians managed three late goals.
Maryborough again competed strongly during the third quarter, but late goals allowed the home side to extend its advantage before St Killians eventually pulled away in the final term.
Despite the result, it was a performance that gave the coaches and parents plenty to be proud of. Harvey Congram was brilliant in the ruck and aggressive around the ground, while the returning Xav Clarke was rock solid in defence alongside back pocket Hunter Moore.
The Magpies return home next weekend to face fourth-placed South Bendigo.
Maryborough’s under 14s made the trip to Dower Park to face Kangaroo Flat for the second time this season, with the Magpies looking for an improved result from their earlier encounter.
Patty Noonan set the tone early, inspired by teammate Jora, who despite being troubled with an ankle injury led the team onto the ground before the opening bounce.
The Magpies won plenty of the football during the first quarter but were unable to make the most of their opportunities on the scoreboard. Following some encouragement from the coach at quarter-time, they responded strongly, linking up well and producing repeated efforts through the midfield and into attack.
Jaylen Ratzz provided another lift in the third term with a classy goal as Maryborough continued to challenge.
Although unable to overcome the margin, eventually going down by 21 points, there were plenty of positives to take from an honourable defeat as the Magpies look to bounce back next week.