Magpies rise to the occasion

DALYSTON recorded its second win for the season with a 49-point win over Kilcunda Bass on Saturday.

This matchup usually delivers a tight contest, and the result did not disappoint the Dalyston faithful, who turned out in droves for their Sponsors’ Day.

Kilcunda Bass does not have an U18s side, so Dalyston played a lot of young legs in the reserves, which increased the excitement of the win. 

The stars had aligned for the Magpies, as they came onto the ground with a full side following a win in the reserves.

The lineup included the return of Kyle Kirk, Hayden Wallis and Cale Love-Linay.

During the first quarter, both sides looked to be feeling each other out.

Dalyston kicked with a slight breeze and ended the quarter eight points ahead, which gave the Panthers hope they could turn the tide in the second quarter.

However, the loss of Nathan Foote to injury early on hurt the Panthers, and the side notably lacked control during the entirety of the match. 

Still in front at half time, the Magpies knew the next quarter could make or break the game, especially with the wind advantage now gone.

They have been in front of the competition at halftime in previous games, but  their third-quarter efforts have cost them dearly.

This time, the Magpies put the foot down and kicked away to put five goals on the board.

Dalyston’s backline was rock solid, limiting opportunities for the Panthers. 

Fraser West and Ben Lewis have been consistent in Dalyston’s backline all season and were instrumental in this game.

Kyle Kirk was a force through the midfield and was the standout player for the game alongside Kilcunda-Bass’ Travis Tuck. 

Tuck had 39 possessions and 30 contested possessions for the game. 

For Dalyston, Mitch Hallahan continued to lead by example and created an excellent target for the Magpies. 

Dino Karamoshos exhibited his sublime talent kicking three goals.

His pinpoint deliveries and evasive skills were pivotal in breaking open the contest.

Louis Armstrong has had a spell in Dalyston’s Reserves, but was back in the action for the match, making the best players’ list from the half-back flank. 

A tight last quarter finished the game.

Kilcunda Bass was unable to make up the ground and get the game back on its terms, and Dalyston switched it up to some safer footy to maintain its solid lead through to the final siren.

The win was a good pick-me-up for Dalyston following its loss to Korumburra-Bena as it prepares to face Nar Nar Goon.

Although a huge challenge, Dalyston will now be entering this game with a little bit of confidence. 

Kilcunda Bass has an important game ahead against Inverloch-Kongwak.

Cora Lynn did the Panthers a favour by claiming a win against the Sea Eagles, which kept Kilcunda Bass in the top six.

Kilcunda Bass will go into this match ready to fight it out and protect its ladder position to stay in the finals race.

Inverloch-Kongwak is seventh on percentage as it stands.