Sport
23 April, 2026
Bombers the team to beat
With the Richardson Oval in picture perfect condition, the Ararat District Junior Football Association began last Sunday, April 19, with the Bombers showing they are the team to beat in 2026.
The Bombers reversed the result from last year’s grand final when they were narrowly defeated by Mounties. This time they led all day and had a commanding 74-point victory. The Bombers have retained most of their players from last season, who are now taller, stronger and more skillful and are the team to beat this year.
The two games were played in ideal autumn weather with little wind and long periods of sunshine. A good-sized crowd of parents and supporters attended to cheer on the boys and girls. The new younger players mixed so well and contributed to their teams and will only get better as they get more experience and confidence.
Bombers v Mounties.
Bomber Archie Harris kicked the first goal of the season after receiving a free kick. They had the majority of play and added another two goals to take a handy 22-point lead at the first break.
They added another three in the second quarter before Charlie Ganley kicked Mounties’ first from one of his trademark snaps from deep in the forward pocket at the town end of the ground.
In the third quarter Oliver Seres in his first game kicked a goal for the Bombers after taking a mark in the goal square. They then kicked another six goals led by best on ground Oliver McDougall, who kicked 5 goals for the game after taking many strong marks. Kayde Werry kicked Mounties’ second goal in the final quarter, but the Bombers went on for a big win.
Other good players for the Bombers were Rowly Tucker in the ruck, on-baller Archie Harris and ruck-come-forward Peter Smith, who also kicked 2 goals. First game Harry Ward received a special mention from his coach for some good work on the wing.
For Mounties, Alana Matulick rucked tirelessly all day against bigger opposition and was their best player. On-baller Hunter Newberry, Kye Rimell and Rigby Holland had plenty of possessions around the ground and Ace Cocks played well.
Warriors v Rovers
In the second game, a new-look Warriors outfit had a comfortable win over Rovers, who were missing players due to basketball commitments. The Warriors have only six players from last season and have been allocated a large number of new boys and girls. They kicked goals in every quarter and had a wide spread of goal kickers on the day. On-baller Charlie Beer was their best player and, as well as picking up many possessions, kicked three goals. Toby Louder and Sawyer Jackson each chipped in with two. Co-captain Jhett Turner and William Jarrett were other on-ballers who picked up plenty of kicks.
The Rovers’ best players were in their backline and, despite being under pressure all game, repelled plenty of attacks. Thomas Gellie did a great job at full back and Garang Wiew at centre half back looks like being one of the most improved players in the competition. First gamer Walter Brewis and Fletcher Barr also played well. James Roberts played well all day after having a good game for Moyston Willaura under 17s against Tatyoon the day before in their win.
Big thanks to Ararat Eagles’ Mitch Laundy, who umpired both games and was well assisted by Brady Miller and Tom Taurau.
With no Wimmera or Mininera next Saturday due to Anzac Day and a fine weather forecast, it is hoped a big crowd can attend Sunday’s games to support the boys and girls.
Memorable moment
Toby Louder played his first ever game of football for the Warriors and his first kick resulted in a goal. It was a terrific performance and a great stepping stone in a passionate long-held goal for play for Geelong.
Results Bombers v Mounties
Bombers 13.10.88
Mounties 2.2.14
Best: Bombers; Oliver McDougall, Rowly Tucker, Peter Smith, Archie Harris, Oscar McDougall, Luke Fulton. Mounties; Alana Matulick, Hunter Newberry, Ace Cocks, Rigby Holland, Jimmy Martin, Nasar Werry.
Goals: Bombers; Oliver McDougall 5, Archie Harris 2, Peter Smith 2, Tom King 1, Oliver Seres 1, George Tucker 1, Rowly Tucker 1. Mounties: Charlie Ganley 1, Kayde Werry 1.
Warriors 9.15.69
Rovers 0.2.2
Best: Warriors; Charlie Beer, Jhett Turner, Toby Louder, William Jarrett, Mason Thomas, Sawyer Jackson. Rovers; Thomas Gellie, Garang Wiew, Walter Brewis, Fletcher Barr, James Roberts, Ted Tucker.
Goals: Warriors; Charlie Beer 3, Sawyer Jackson 2, Toby Louder 2, Mason Thomas 1, Jhett Turner 1.
Round 3 Sunday 26th April
9.30am Mounties v Warriors
10.45am Rovers v Bombers
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