By JESS WHITEHEAD and AMY COLLINS Under 17 The Wangaratta Rovers under 17 girls’ team made history on the weekend, playing in their first ever finals game, and they rose to the occasion in style, securing a hard fought 16-point victory over Corowa Rutherglen in their elimination final. The Rovers got off to a fast start, building an early lead and maintaining their composure throughout the match. They looked strong all game, producing plenty of great passages of play where the ball flowed smoothly through the middle of the ground, often with Lily Gibb and Skylah McPherson linking up to deliver it into the forward line. The team used the ball cleanly, consistently hitting targets with precision kicks, which allowed them to maintain possession and control the tempo. Gemma Couch Trinder in particular brought relentless tackling pressure and high-intensity work in the midfield, while Issie Foster’s run and determination set the tone for the team’s work rate. Ruby Newton was a standout, kicking five goals while spending much of her time in the midfield, winning clearances and applying constant scoreboard pressure. Skylah McPherson and Abbey Waide also contributed a goal each, capitalising on the team’s attacking momentum. The Rovers’ defensive group, led by Lily Currie Fraser, Lizzy Healy, and Bridie Davies, stood tall under pressure, with players reading the ball well, intercepting crucial forward entries from Corowa Rutherglen, and working together to rebound strongly. Their ability to turn defence into attack was key in keeping the Roos at bay. Corowa Rutherglen played with determination all day and kept the contest alive, but the Rovers were just a step ahead, showing clean ball movement, sharp decision-making, and strong teamwork across all four quarters. It was a proud and memorable day for the team, with the under 17s moving forward in their finals campaign full of belief and determination. Next week the Rovers will face Wodonga Raiders in the preliminary final. Final score: Wangaratta Rovers 7.7.49 def Corowa Rutherglen 5.3.33. Best: Ruby Newton, Lily Gibb, Skylah McPherson, Gemma Couch Trinder, Lily Currie Fraser, Isabelle Foster. Goals: Ruby Newton 5, Skylah McPherson, Abbey Waide. Open It was a big day for the Wangaratta Rovers, with two incredible milestones to celebrate: Bron McGorlick running out for her 300th career game, having started her football journey at 18 with Melbourne University, and Megan Quick notching up her 100th career game. Both players have been outstanding contributors to the club on and off the field, and the team was determined to honour them with a strong performance. In a tough and hard-fought elimination final, the Rovers took on the Corowa Rutherglen Roos, with both sides throwing everything at the contest. The Rovers couldn’t have scripted a better start, kicking the opening goal within the first minute of play to ignite the crowd and set the tone early. However, as the game progressed, the Roos began to settle and capitalise on their chances. Despite the Rovers’ relentless pressure and determination, they struggled to find the scoreboard impact they needed, and the Roos gradually pulled away. By the final siren, the Rovers had gone down 1.5 (11) to 5.6 (36), ending their 2025 finals campaign. While the result was not what the team had hoped for, the day was still marked by pride and celebration of Bron’s and Megan’s remarkable achievements — milestones that reflect years of dedication, resilience, and love for the game. The club extends its thanks to all players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters for their unwavering commitment throughout the season - the journey for 2026 begins now. Final score: Wangaratta Rovers 1.5.11 def by Corowa Rutherglen 5.6.36. Best: Emma Gosbell, Kaea Tua, Clare Collins, Alice Minns, Andie Bleicher, Chloe Kungl. Goal: Rebekah Di Paola.
