Football
16 July, 2025
Kaniva Leeor continue finals push
Kaniva Leeor United continue to strengthen their chance of a finals appearance in men’s senior football, defeating Rupanyup on Saturday in round 13 of the Horsham District Football Netball League.
The final score saw the Cougars kick 19.12 (126) to 4.7 (31).
Playing at Kaniva, Rupanyup started the game strongly, with Domonic Grant and Cam Weston scoring the opening two goals of the game, giving the Panthers a 14-7 lead at the first break.
But the Cougars demonstrated their recent form in the second quarter, kicking five goals to take the lead and be up 40-22 at the main break.
Kaniva Leeor then assumed control of the game, extending their lead to 43 points at three-quarter-time before finishing with an eight-goal final term to win by 95.
Jacob Eats extended his season tally of goals, kicking six majors to lead the competition with 62 for the year.
Dylan Eats led the Panthers with two goals.
Alby Kingston and Daniel Weetra were two of the best for the losing side while Billy King and Josh Clayton impressed for Kaniva.
Kaniva Leeor coach Jonno Hicks said Rupanyup got the better of his side in the opening quarter.
“They came out really well,” Hicks said.
“They had probably more intent than us early on at the contest and we were a bit sloppy with the ball and probably overusing the handball a bit.
“Full credit to them.
"They obviously beat us round one so we knew we couldn't take them lightly.
“They really showed up, especially that first quarter – their pressure around the footy was really impressive.”
Hicks acknowledged that focusing on their structures was crucial in putting in a strong performance for the remainder of the game.
“We got overworked in that first quarter but once the effort came we got back to our game plan and system," Hicks said.
"We were fine after that."
The Cougars coach praised Jock Maddern and Lochlyn Hayne for igniting their comeback.
“They had a couple of players who were really on top so Jock Maddern, our captatin, went to one of the guys and curbed his influence, which had a big bearing on the game for us,” Hicks said.
“Lochy Hayne, who has been in really good form on the wing the last few weeks, took on more of a tagging role and helped turn around the game for us.”
The win keeps the Cougars just one win behind the Swifts in fifth.