2023 grand final rematch sees the Blues beaten

By Oliver Shedden and Liam Nash

Aug 4, 2024

Tongala’s teamwork wasn’t enough against Mulwala in round 16. Photo: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

Round 16 saw a 2023 grand final rematch between Tongala and Mulwala flipped on its head.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The reigning Blues, similar to last season’s big dance, walked in as favourites but were humbled by the seventh-ranked Lions, handed a 53-44 defeat to stew on ahead of the week off.

The first half was tense; fine margins separated the two sides at the first two breaks.

Mulwala crept ahead by three goals at quarter-time but Tongala was able to chop the deficit down to 28-27 at the main break, and from there the Lions went on a tear.

The 2023 runner-up wrangled the third quarter 12-7 and held on for a memorable home win despite finals looking improbable bar a Deniliquin Rams’ disaster.

Meanwhile, Tongala currently sits in third on the ladder, with only percentage separating the Blues and Nathalia.

Tongala has a challenging final two rounds, as it will face sixth-placed Deniliquin Rams who will be hungry to retain a finals spot in round 17.

They will then travel to face league leaders Rumbalara in the final round which could be a match that may decide in what position the Blues enter finals.

By Oliver Shedden and Liam Nash