Sport
5 June, 2026
Maryborough juniors have perfect weekend
The Maryborough Football Netball Club had a perfect weekend on the football field last week, with all three junior teams recording wins heading into the King’s Birthday weekend break.
The Maryborough under 10s kickstarted the weekend, playing Heathcote away and enjoyed the challenge of a full-sized oval for the first time this season.
The young Magpies continued to show encouraging improvement in both their skills and teamwork. Marley Vick was a standout in front of goal, finishing with two majors in a strong performance.
Goals were shared, but most importantly, there were plenty of smiles from players and parents alike as the Magpies enjoyed another positive outing on the field.
Also on Saturday, the Mary-borough under 12s travelled to Ewing Park knowing a win was crucial against St Theresa’s, and they responded with one of their most complete performances of the season.
In co-captain Charlie Smith’s 50th game for the club, the Magpies were electric from the opening bounce.
Smith continually drove the ball deep into attack, where Tommy Boyes made the most of his opportunities, booting three first-quarter goals on his way to a match-winning haul of five.
Knox Parkinson and Isaac Neil provided plenty of run and space on the wings, while Xavier Clark capitalised on his move forward with two goals of his own.
Maryborough established control early and effectively had the contest sewn up by half-time before running away to a convincing 10.5.(65)-3.2.(20) victory.
The under 14s also produced a determined performance on Sunday, holding off a fast-finishing South Bendigo to record an important 6.6.(42)-5.10.(40) victory on home soil.
With plenty at stake, the Magpies entered the match knowing a win was vital and were prepared for a tough contest.
Joravar Dhanju continued his impressive start to life at the club, providing plenty of drive from half-back in just his third game in Magpie colours.
Several permit players were welcomed into the side and made valuable contributions, while Charlie Wilson worked tirelessly at centre half-forward, continually presenting as a target in slippery conditions.
Maryborough appeared to have the game under control when they opened up a 17-point lead during the final quarter.
However, South Bendigo refused to surrender, mounting a spirited comeback that reduced the margin to just two points with six minutes remaining.
The closing stages were tense as the visitors pressed hard, but the Magpies stood firm under pressure to secure a gutsy win.
The result sparked enthusiastic celebrations in the rooms afterwards, with coach Ben Heathcock praising the character shown by his young side.