Next gen: Echuca debutant Noah Langborne impressed against Shepparton Swans. Photo: Josh Huntly
Even with up to seven senior stars out, Echuca didn’t look like it had any leaks in the boat against Shepparton Swans.
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Although the Swans have experienced their struggles and the Murray Bombers were boosted by the return of Jack McHale (30 disposals, 14 contested possessions), the reigning premiers continued their happy knack for finding talent within their ranks to cover personnel losses.
Debutant Noah Langborne was the latest to showcase his craft at senior level, grasping his chance with both hands.
The 17-year-old found the footy 19 times and disposed of it well, moving the Sherrin at 78 per cent efficiency, impressing the Echuca faithful in his first start.
Meanwhile, Bendigo Pioneers stand-in skipper Hugh Byrne earned commendations from the Echuca brains trust after his third senior outing.
While the numbers were modest in comparison with others on the day, Byrne clunked six marks — three inside 50 — amid 11 disposals and two first-quarter goals en route to 82 ranking points, labelled a solid presence heading inside 50 by coach Sam Reid.
Throw in small forward Corbin Anderson’s three-goal showing and the Murray Bombers will be confident in their depth going forward.
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