Echuca’s Liam Tenace was busy in the ruck during the interleague clash against the Ovens and Murray League. Photos: Megan Fisher
Photo by
Megan Fisher
The Goulburn Valley League triumphed over the Ovens and Murray League at the weekend for the first time since 2010, with a five-strong Echuca contingent pivotal in reclaiming the Ash-Wilson Trophy.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Standout among the Murray Bombers was Matthew Lias, with the on-baller racking up huge numbers.
Collecting 33 disposals and 15 contested possessions, Lias was influential throughout the contest, including in the last term when he slotted a big goal that ensured the purple and gold got the win.
The in-and-under mid won six clearances, laid five tackles, took seven marks and had five score involvements in a fine individual display, all of which amounted to 147 ranking points, more than 20 clear of any other player.
Liam Tenace also enjoyed a big day out, with the big man tallying 105 ranking points as he continued what has been an exceptional start to the season.
Tenace garnered 15 disposals and clunked 10 marks (six contested), showing a strong pair of hands.
His ability in the ruck was also on show, winning 31 hit outs, while also claiming nine contested possessions and two clearances.
Echuca’s Hugh Byrne takes a massive specky on the far wing.
Photo by
Rob Brooks
Young gun Hugh Byrne was similarly terrific, emerging from the contest not only with the win but a new addition to the highlight reel after balancing on the shoulders of an O&M defender for an eternity to pull down a big mark.
Byrne collected 19 disposals, going at 95 per cent efficiency for the afternoon, while also winning 15 hit outs when pinch-hitting in the ruck.
Four tackles, two clearances and seven score involvements rounded out a solid performance from the forward, which was worth 97 ranking points.
Late call-up Cooper Willoughby showed he belonged in the interleague set-up with a solid 13-disposal effort, winning six contested possessions and laying three tackles.
Riley Smith was also busy, with 14 touches and five tackles while racking up four score involvements off the wing.
