Sport
22 April, 2026
Grasshoppers fall at home
Navarre has suffered a 21-point defeat to Newstead at Navarre Recreation Reserve in round two of the Maryborough Castlemaine District Football Netball League season, with the visitors claiming a 12.7 (79) to 8.10 (58) victory.
The Grasshoppers made an ideal start, kicking the opening three goals of the game and holding Newstead scoreless in the first term. However, momentum shifted in the second quarter as Newstead piled on six goals to two, taking a seven-point lead into half-time.
Newstead carried that surge into the second half, extending the margin to 37 points by the final change before sealing the win.
Lachlan O’Brien led the way for Newstead with four goals, while Jack Mentha was Navarre’s main contributor up forward with three majors.
Navarre had solid performances from Angus Bade, Riley Bibby, Will Moloney, Luke Hendy, Jack Mentha and John Jok, while Nicholas Woodman was outstanding for Newstead.
Grasshoppers coach Kyle Hendy expressed disappointment with his side’s performance, particularly their deviation from their usual game style.
“We went away from what works for us and the style we play,” he said.
“We tried to play a bit more ‘pretty’ footy and hit up targets that weren’t effective, which led to turnovers in the high half-forward area. They really hurt us on the rebound.”
Despite the strong start, Hendy said his side failed to respond when Newstead took control.
“We started like a house on fire, but when they ran over the top of us, we didn’t shut it down. That’s something we need to improve defensively.”
Hendy remains optimistic about the development of his younger players.
“They’re stepping up and playing the roles we ask of them, and their confidence will grow with more game time,” he said.
“They just need to back their skills more, especially with their disposal and ball use.”
Navarre now shifts focus to a challenging clash against Maryborough, where they will be without Aaron Slorach due to a hamstring injury.
“We’ve got good speed in our reserves and young players coming through, so there’s an opportunity to bring a few in who are performing well,” Hendy said.
“For us, it’s about getting our game style back. We know we can compete with anyone, but we need to be consistent across all four quarters.”
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