Panthers fall to Nar Nar Goon

ALTHOUGH it couldn’t get it done on the day, Kilcunda-Bass put up a strong contest in its first-ever final in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition.

The Panthers came up against Nar Nar Goon in the first elimination final, held at the Inverloch Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

A strong wind favoured one end and made it nearly impossible for both sides to get a score on the board at the other.

The Panthers played their hearts out and did everything they could to get themselves into every contest, but ultimately fell short.

Different tactics were required to combat the wind.

The Panthers couldn’t make an impact on the scoreboard, so had to rely on its defensive ability, working hard to keep Nar Nar Goon to a manageable score.

Nar Nar Goon gained a 23-point lead at quarter time, which proved to be well within the Panthers’ reach.

The Panthers levelled the score in the second quarter, now with the breeze on their side.

Travis Tuck was instrumental for Kilcunda-Bass throughout the day – his experience clearly demonstrated in the way he put himself on the line. 

He played everywhere, going down back and playing defensively required, and coming forward to kick a couple of goals for the Panthers.

Jed Rosenow was a standout. 

This was his first year of Senior footy and he saved his best game of the season for the final, playing off the wing.

Dale Gawley was once again a strong presence in the ruck.

The wind wasn’t as strong in the second half but still had an impact on the game.

Nar Nar Goon used the wind advantage well in the third quarter and regained a 29-point lead.

Unfortunately, Kilcunda-Bass missed some of its opportunities during the fourth quarter but remained competitive throughout the game.

A huge crowd turned out at Inverloch and got around the boys.

“It was a disappointing outcome, but it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the experience. It was a good experience for players who have put in the hard yards for years and it was a good experience for the young kids getting to play in a final in their first year in Seniors,” coach Lee Rowe said.

“We have a lot to look forward to now we’ve had a taste of finals. The Cora Lynn game at the end of the season proved we are playing at the standard we have been working towards.”

The 2024 season has come to an end for Kilcunda-Bass, with preseason scheduled a few weeks before Christmas.

Rowe has resigned as Senior coach.

“Retention is a key focus for us, as well as finding our deficiencies and working on those,” he said.

“It’ll also be about maintaining our strength and depth in both the Seniors and the Reserves.”