Yinnar pressure too much for Tarwin

By Rob Popplestone

THE Mid Gippsland Football Netball League was this week recognised as one of the most even and competitive football competitions in regional Victoria, but in round twelve the results of some big matches would also clear a pathway for many clubs to take a step towards bigger and better things, some to a bumpy road and some would need to accept the dead end that lays ahead.

It was third-placed Yinnar travelling to the home of fifth-placed Tarwin, both clubs fully aware that there was an enormous amount riding on the result.

The loser, to start to feel the pressure of a trailing pack, the winner to breathe a sigh of relief, albeit just for a week.

The air was fresh for Yinnar, the pressure on Tarwin as the Magpies had the most comfortable of victories 21-6-132 to 2-10-22.

“Tarwin on their home ground is always hard to beat and we prepared for a tough encounter,” Sam McCulloch, Yinnar coach said.

“The game was hot early and we managed to get our brand of footy going in the second quarter and went into halftime with a handy buffer. We continued on in the second half and ran the game out well. 

“One of the most pleasing aspects was the even contribution from right across the field for all four quarters.”

The Magpies’ victory, one of their best for 2025, was a reassuring one for coaches and supporters alike, and not only did they put their best out here for everyone to see, but it also put a substantial dent in the confidence of the Sharks.

“We were really outclassed all over the ground on the weekend,” Lachie Jones, Tarwin coach said.

“We prepared well but didn’t execute in so many key areas. Yinnar reminded us that they can score quickly and heavily. We won’t dwell on this too much and will look to respond positively next week against Fish Creek.”

While Yinnar just cruises below the two top teams of the MGFNL in Foster and Fish Creek, the Sharks remain under no illusions now, as to what is required to close the gap between the haves and have-nots.

Tarwin are around about the mark, but not quite there yet.