Sport
23 May, 2025
Pumas go down despite end-game surge
Maryborough’s unbeaten start to its 10th AFL Masters Country Victoria football season ended on Sunday despite a spirited final quarter comeback against Moorabool Valley.
The Pumas banged home the final three goals of the match but fell just 12 points short, as the Crocs held on for a 11.9.(75) to 9.9.(63) victory at the Meredith Recreation Reserve.
Moorabool Valley had stretched its lead beyond five goals early in the fourth quarter and appeared in control of the game before Maryborough clicked into gear.
Maryborough coach Terry Hillier said the Pumas had fought hard without reward up to that point and the final margin was far more indicative of the closeness of the contest.
He said the Crocs’ marking power up forward ultimately proved the difference.
“I just felt we were doing a lot of things right and putting in a lot of effort but not getting the reward on the scoreboard for three quarters,” Hillier explained.
“We were doing a good job of getting the ball in-and-around the contest but probably giving it up too easily with some of our turnovers.
“The last quarter was a lot better and it started to show on the scoreboard. I think we gave them a bit of a fright in the end.”
Chris Cudia continued his 2025 purple patch for the Pumas with another three goals, with Trevor Chapman also finishing with three. Lauchlan Williams, Jibb Iglesias and Matt Powell each kicked a goal apiece.
Scott Newitt was awarded Maryborough’s best player for the match, with Ricky Burrows, Paul Manitta, Iglesias, Powell, Williams and Jack Mills also among the Pumas’ best.
Maryborough’s next match is at home against Macorna Tigers on June 1.
Training for AFL Masters football is 6pm on Wednesday evenings at Princes Park.