Sport
15 May, 2026
Maroons make positive moves forward
NEWBRIDGE’S win at Macorna – the first loss at home for the Tigers – was “another step” for the developing Maroons, coach Jayden Cordy said.
NEWBRIDGE’S win at Macorna – the first loss at home for the Tigers – was “another step” for the developing Maroons, coach Jayden Cordy said.
The visitors always had a buffer in the game, and the eventual 32-point margin was built on a seven goals to three second half.
Macorna’s inaccuracy also was a factor, with 17 scoring shots to Newbridge’s 19.
Cordy praised his team’s “real sense of maturity”, with a trip to the league’s newest club a step into the unknown for the Maroons.
Centre half-back Jon Coe is beginning to show his dominance and his leadership as he settles into Loddon Valley football after a storied career in the Bendigo league, and he was a commanding presence.
And first-gamer Noah Hill was lively in the forward line, kicking three goals after being made to wait for his debut because of a shoulder injury in pre-season.
There was a cost to the victory, however, with vice-captain and key forward Brandon Dimech injuring a knee and awaiting scans as to the severity of the knock.
The young Tigers have come back to the pack after a 3-0 start, but coach Fergus Payne will return this week after serving his three-week suspension for making contact with an opponent’s eye.
Macorna will welcome him back for both his on-field leadership and his physical strength in the midfield.
Sam Whinfield continues to show his precocious ability as an onballer, and was his team’s best player, while full-back Tom Ebbage has been a rock in defence all season and captain Toby Whinfield played his 250th game for the Tigers.
Macorna is at home on Saturday to four-time reigning premiers Marong in another stiff test of the team’s credentials, with Newbridge hosting Bears Lagoon Serpentine.