Eagles flex their muscle

CHALLENGING conditions and a challenging opposition met Nyora on Saturday.

The last time Nyora faced Ellinbank, the Eagles dealt the Saints a heartbreaking 208-point loss.

Ellinbank once again proved to be the dominant side after Saturday’s performance, winning by 149 points.

The rain poured throughout most of the game, coming in sideways around the third quarter.

Despite the downpour, Nyora’s ground held up well.

The first quarter was one for Nyora to forget. 

The Saints remained scoreless while Ellinbank totally controlled the play, kicking eight and securing a 54-point lead before the first siren.

Nyora lacked defensive pressure and Ellinbank handled the ball well despite the difficult conditions.

Ellinbank continued its dominance in the second quarter, adding another seven goals.

Lachlan Pratt led Ellinbank’s goal-scoring, kicking six for the day. Lucas Lee was Nyora’s best player for the day and was the first to get a score on the board for the Saints.

In an impressive bit of play, Lee assisted in getting the ball down the ground and took a crucial mark inside 50. 

After halftime, Nyora’s defensive pressure improved.

With quite a few players out, Nyora brought a few players up from the Reserves to play in the Seniors.

This included Riely Powlesland, who played his first Senior game and featured in the backline. 

Although the goals still flowed for Ellinbank, the Eagles had a tougher time moving the ball forward.

Nyora had more touches of the ball throughout the second half but could not convert its opportunities.

One more goal was added by Tyler Campbell in the third quarter. 

Dylan and Jesse Heylen played another strong game for Nyora through the middle.

Ellinbank ended the match by handing down another scoreless quarter to Nyora and kicking five more goals.

Next week, Nyora will face top of the table Buln Buln.

This is set to be another challenging match for the Saints, who will be aiming to show improvement from the 104-point loss in round six.