Magpies fly high despite draw

Denmark-Walpole blew a huge chance to upset the ladder-leaders in the penultimate home-and-away round of the GSFL Colts as Royals kicked a couple of late goals to snatch a draw at Retravision Stadium on Saturday.

The Magpies went into the final quarter with a handy eight-point lead and although they didn’t win the game, they will take a lot of confidence from this match with finals just around the corner.

Both teams finished 6.9 (45) with Jackson Ross from Denmark-Walpole being the dominant forward of the day, finishing with five goals in an offensive masterclass.

He was well supported by Tait Harfield, Marlon Mastalerz, Jye Maddafari and Jed Schwarzback, all these players benefitting from just playing the one game and not doubling up to play league, as the Magpies are one team now you don’t want to meet in any cut-throat finals.

Rory Luscombe kicked a couple of goals for the Lions, as Shane Ugle, Heath Turnor and Koby Hams played well.

Despite the draw, Royals will finish top of the ladder over Albany, with Railways due to meet the Magpies in an Elimination Final.

In the other game at Tigerland, Railways showed it can be anyone’s year as they defeated second-placed Albany, 12.7 (79) to 7.4 (46).

Brock Lathbury kicked four goals to continue his form in front of goals, as George Famlonga, Marshall O’Meara and Trent Herbert were effective.

For Albany, Clay Harrington, Ben Thomas and Caleb Coffey played well in a losing cause.

This Saturday, Denmark-Walpole take on Railways at McLean Oval at 10.45am, and North Albany host Royals at Collingwood Park at the later time of 4.45pm. Albany have the bye.