Yarrawonga 4.2 5.5 6.10 9.12 (66) def by Corowa Rutherglen 2.2 6.5 9.6 12.7 (79)
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Yarrawonga – Best: William Wheeler, Daniel Howe, Jack Elliott, Reid Clarke, Cameron Wilson, Brad Ryan
Corowa – Best: Deagan Purcell, Thomas Longmire, Tom Forrest, Cody Schutt, Patrick Lavis, Elijah Amery
Yarrawonga Goals: 2 - Ben Coghill , 2 - Max Findlay
Corowa: 4 - Kaelan Bradtke, 3 - Deagan Purcell, 2 - Liam Mccarthy, 2 - Tex Longmire.
The scoreboard may not have gone Yarrawonga's way on Saturday, but one thing was crystal clear at JC Lowe Oval – the Pigeons Army is alive and well.
In front of one of the biggest and most vibrant home crowds of the season, the Pigeons went down to Corowa-Rutherglen by 13 points, 12.7 (79) to 9.12 (66), in a contest that could easily have produced a different result had a few opportunities gone the home side's way.
The reunion weekend atmosphere was outstanding, with generations of Pigeons supporters returning to the club to celebrate its rich history, while the milestone of Bridget Cassar's 300th game added another special chapter to a memorable day.
From the opening bounce, the crowd was treated to a hard-fought contest. Max Findlay gave the Pigeons the perfect start with two early goals as Yarrawonga jumped out of the blocks. The game then developed into an arm wrestle, with the Roos proving more efficient when opportunities presented.
The Pigeons generated plenty of football after half-time and created numerous scoring chances, but a return of just one goal and five behinds in the third quarter allowed Corowa-Rutherglen to establish a match-winning break.
The visitors' ability to convert their opportunities ultimately proved the difference. While the result was disappointing, there was no shortage of effort from the home side.
William Wheeler was outstanding once again, finishing with 29 possessions, 15 clearances and 18 contested possessions in a dominant midfield display.
Cameron Wilson, playing against his old side, epitomised toughness and commitment with 24 possessions, nine clearances and 18 contested possessions, repeatedly putting his body on the line for the team.
Daniel Howe continued his strong season with 23 possessions across half-back and through the midfield, while wingman Reid Clarke was again a major contributor with 22 possessions and 11 marks.
Nicholas Fothergill continued his excellent form higher up the ground, gathering 24 possessions and nine contested possessions.
Wheeler, Howe, Jack Elliott, Clarke, Wilson and Brad Ryan were named among Yarrawonga's best players.
Yet for many around the ground, the highlight of the day extended beyond the four points.
The sight of the AWJFL's young Pigeons proudly lining the boundary, kicking footballs on the outer wing, wearing their club colours and cheering every contest was something special.
They brought energy, passion and noise throughout the afternoon and reminded everyone exactly what makes the Yarrawonga Football Netball Club such a strong community club. The future of the Pigeons was on display all day long.
Now the focus turns to this Saturday and a crucial clash against Wangaratta Rovers at JC Lowe Oval.
The players have continued to compete strongly, but they need every bit of support the Pigeons Army can provide.
The challenge has been clear in recent weeks – moments of ill-discipline and missed opportunities have proven costly in close contests.
The response starts this weekend.
So, this is a call to arms. Wear the White n blue - bring your family - bring your mates -bring your voice and air horn - fill the outer wing.
Get behind the boys from the first bounce to the final siren and create an atmosphere that makes JC Lowe Oval one of the toughest grounds in the competition for visiting teams.
The Pigeons Army was magnificent last Saturday. This weekend, against the Rovers, the club needs that support again.
The season is still alive, the opportunities are still there, and with the backing of a passionate home crowd, the Pigeons will be looking to soar.
See you at JC Lowe Oval this Saturday.
Reserves
Yarrawonga 5.1 5.6 8.6 12.7 (79) def Corowa 4.2 6.5 8.7 9.9 (63)
Best Players: Tom Goodwin, Jack Eales, Lach Howe, Josh Payne, Hunter Frauenfelder, Ryder Stevens.
Pigeons Reserves finish strong
Yarrawonga's Second XVIII overcame a sluggish start to record a hard-fought 12.7 (79) to 9.9 (63) victory over Corowa-Rutherglen at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday.
In a contest that promised plenty from the opening bounce, the Pigeons were below their usual standards early, at times lacking the urgency and polish. A number of uncharacteristic errors proved costly on the scoreboard, while the opening stages of the third quarter left many supporters shaking their heads in disbelief.
Despite those challenges, the class and depth of the Pigeons eventually shone through. The defining story of the afternoon was the long-awaited debut of towering recruit Tom Goodwin.
Making his first appearance in Yarrawonga colours, Goodwin immediately made his presence felt, booting four goals in a dominant display that gave the Pigeons a focal point up forward.
The day also provided one of the lighter moments of the season, with great club supporter and master seamstress Lyn Hicks earning plenty of praise for ensuring Goodwin was fitted out and ready to go in his new colours.
With former No.16 wearer Scott Oswald looking on, Goodwin quickly made the guernsey his own with a performance that had teammates and supporters alike excited about what lies ahead.
Lach Howe was equally influential in his return appearance, providing a strong aerial presence and important contests around the ground.
The sight of multiple tall options working together will no doubt leave coach O'Dwyer with some pleasant selection headaches in the weeks ahead, while presenting opposition coaches with an even greater challenge.
After a relatively even first half, Yarrawonga's superior fitness, ball movement and ability to win key contests began to take hold.
The Pigeons outscored Corowa-Rutherglen seven goals to three after the main break, a far more accurate reflection of the gap between the two sides by the final siren.
Jack Eales continued his outstanding season and is mounting a compelling case for senior selection, while Josh Payne and Hunter Frauenfelder responded strongly after narrowly missing senior opportunities.
Both demonstrated they have plenty of senior football ahead of them during the 2026 season.
Goodwin, Eales, Howe, Payne, Frauenfelder and Ryder Stevens were named Yarrawonga's best players.
The challenge steps up another level this weekend when the Pigeons host a strong Wangaratta Rovers outfit.
With several players pushing for senior selection and competition for spots intensifying, it shapes as another important test for a Yarrawonga side building impressive momentum.
Thirds
Yarrawonga 3.2 9.5 15.6 19.12 (126) def Corowa 1.4 3.5 6.5 6.6 (42)
Best Players: Samuel Trembath, Oliver Watson, Oliver Tresize, James Cummins, Jeremy Packer, Cooper Clark.
Goals: Samuel Trembath 7, James Cummins 3, Connor McCarty 2, Oliver Tresize 2.
Young Pigeons soar after slow start
Yarrawonga's Third XVIII shook off a sluggish opening quarter to produce an emphatic 19.12 (126) to 6.6 (42) victory over Corowa-Rutherglen at JC Lowe Oval on Saturday.
After a slow start that saw the visitors remain in the contest early, the young Pigeons quickly found their rhythm and controlled proceedings for the remainder of the afternoon.
From quarter time onwards, Yarrawonga showcased its skill, speed and attacking flair, piling on 16 goals across the final three quarters to secure a convincing win.
Leading the charge was forward Samuel Trembath, who continued his strong season with another good performance in front of goal.
Trembath booted seven majors and was a constant threat throughout the day, taking his tally to an impressive 33 goals for the 2026 season.
The return of boarding school students James Cummins and Oliver Tresize provided a significant boost for the side.
Both looked a class above at times, using their composure and football smarts to great effect while also hitting the scoreboard.
Cummins finished with three goals, while Tresize added two and both among the Pigeons' very best players. Connor McCarty continued his strong development with two goals and another industrious performance, while Cooper Clark's improvement throughout the season was again evident.
As contests have become more physical and the pressure has increased, both players have continued to thrive and make important contributions for the side.
Samuel Trembath, Oliver Watson, Oliver Tresize, James Cummins, Jeremy Packer and Cooper Clark were named Yarrawonga's best players in a strong all-round team effort.
While the victory was comprehensive, attention now quickly turns to what shapes as one of the most important matches of the season.
The young Pigeons face a highly rated Wangaratta Rovers Under 18 outfit this weekend in a clash that could have significant implications for the remainder of their campaign.
With finals aspirations on the line and momentum building, the challenge against the Rovers looms as a genuine measuring stick for a talented Yarrawonga group that continues to improve with every week.
If Saturday's performance was any indication, the young Pigeons will head into the contest full of confidence and ready for the challenge.
Pigeons Loft
A day to remember
Last Saturday will be remembered as one of the most significant and heartwarming days in recent Yarrawonga Football Netball Club history, as the club celebrated three extraordinary women whose contributions have helped shape the modern era of the Pigeons.
In front of a large and appreciative crowd, Bridget Cassar, Laura Irvine and Annalise Grinter were honoured for their outstanding service, loyalty and achievements across more than two decades at the club.
The occasion was made even more memorable by the official naming of the club's newest netball court as Bridget Cassar Court, a fitting tribute to the most decorated player in the club's proud history. Court 1 was named after her father and now the second carries name of person Marc “Sauce” Lonergan describes as the Greatest Ever Pigeon.
The celebrations brought together generations of Pigeons, with Reunion Weekend once again proving a tremendous success. Former players, coaches, officials and supporters returned to the Coup to reconnect, share stories and celebrate the people and moments that have helped build one of the region's strongest football-netball clubs.
Adding to the occasion was a sea of colour and noise from the next generation of Pigeons. The AWJFL players embraced the day in spectacular fashion, packing the outer wing as part of the growing
Pigeon Army. Their energy, enthusiasm and unwavering support created a fantastic atmosphere throughout the afternoon and demonstrated just how bright the future of the club remains.
On the court and field, the Pigeons gave supporters plenty to cheer about, winning seven of the eight matches contested. Across football and netball, Yarrawonga's teams displayed the depth, talent and competitive spirit that continue to make the club a force across the Ovens and Murray.
The lone disappointment came in senior football, where Corowa-Rutherglen produced a strong performance to defeat the Pigeons and end an extraordinary 18-year winning streak against the Roos. While the result was not the one Yarrawonga wanted. Importantly, one result does not define a season, and there is little time to dwell on the setback with another major challenge looming this Saturday.
The Pigeons return home on Saturday to host Wangaratta Rovers in what promises to be a cracking day of football and netball. With both clubs fighting for important premiership points, supporters can expect fierce contests across every grade and plenty of action from the opening bounce through to the final siren.
The club is calling on all supporters to get behind the teams and help create another outstanding atmosphere at the Coup. In particular, the AWJFL players’ Pigeon Army was sensational last weekend, and we would love to see you ALL back bigger, louder and stronger this Saturday. Bring your teammates, wear your club colours, gather on the wing and help drive the Pigeons home.
The support of the Yarrawonga faithful has always been one of the club's greatest strengths… let's fill the Coup, get behind every footballer and netballer in the white n blue. Go Pigeons!