Moama, Mathoura build momentum going into postseason

The Steamers were pushed to the limit by Rich River but came away victorious 12-57 to 4-53, ensuring a top-two finish and double chance in the finals thanks to a strong effort from skip Trevor Eastwell.

The only Moama rink to come away with the win, Eastwell’s quartet of Tony Hawley (lead), Colin Hayes (second) and John Worledge (third) earned the victory 24-15 to ultimately secure Moama the overall result.

Brian Trengove skipped a successful Rich River rink, 20-16, while teammate Dennis Demeo was also victorious 18-17, but the margins of victory weren’t enough for their side to get the points.

Mathoura scored big in its contest with Rochester, prevailing 14-76 to 2-49.

Skip Troy Mansbridge’s squad was in good touch, earning a dominant win 35-13.

Peter Pangrazio also bowled well for Mathoura, skipping a 24-11 rink victory, while Kevin Hall earned the lone success for Rochy 25-17.

Stanhope was fortunate to have already locked down fourth spot, as fifth-placed Deniliquin took all three rinks, 16-64 to 0-46 against the finalists.

Stephen O’Brien scored the biggest Stanhope win, 24-17, while fellow skips Christine Taylor (21-15) and Craig Hillier (19-14) were also victorious.

Ladder-leader Echuca will head into the semi-finals well-rested after a bye.

Lower Divisions

In division two, Deniliquin will go into its elimination final hot favourites after scoring a big win over next week’s opponents Rich River, 16-80 to 0-49.

Moama also earned the edge in a semi-final preview, defeating Echuca 14-60 to 2-56.

Ky Valley View came within a shot of avoiding a winless season, downed by Rochester 12-61 to 4-60.

In division three, Echuca built confidence heading into finals, handing Moama its first defeat of the season, 14-52 to 0-33.

Deniliquin also provided the upset against a higher-ranked opponent, beating Elmore 13-49 to 1-27 and securing itself the last finals spot.

Lockington ensured it wouldn’t finish on the bottom of the ladder, dooming opponent Tongala Red to that fate 12-51 to 2-46.

Echuca had a narrow edge over fellow finalist Stanhope, prevailing 12-39 to 2-38.

Lockington was too strong for Tongala Red 14-51 to 0-22 and Rich River dominated Rochester 14-41 to 0-28.