After a dismal showing in round 17 against Kyabram, leaving fourth spot available to two other teams ― including its opponent at the weekend ― Euroa stepped up to the plate with emphasis.
The Magpies (12-6) reckoned with a half-time deficit before their effort on the ball reaped tangible rewards on their way to an 18-point victory over fellow final qualifier Mansfield (10-8).
Euroa’s turnaround: Round 17 v Round 18
Contested possessions: 92 - 167
Scores from turnovers: 2.3 (15) - 7.3 (45)
Tackles: 46 - 69
Intercept possessions: 26 - 56
Hit-outs to advantage: 6 - 22
As reported earlier this week in The News, much of the influence driving Euroa to victory hailed from the performances of Jett Trotter and captain Jacob Gleeson, especially in the latter stages.
They put forth inspirational performances to get Euroa over the top, combining for 31 contested possessions, 13 score involvements and 12 tackles to give the Magpies’ engine room the lift it sorely needed after a 54-point hiding at the hands of Kyabram last time out.
Although the game at no stage got away from Mansfield, it was evident Euroa had entered the fixture itching to send those still in contention a message.
Its dauntless physicality and emphatic advantage in centre contests ― led by the dominance of ruckman Andrew Smith, ranked No.5 in the GVL for hit-outs to advantage ― certainly achieved as much.
Its reward for gallantly powering to a fourth-placed finish, thanks partly to an assist from ladder-leading Echuca later that day, is an elimination final Sunday afternoon with Mooroopna, who the Magpies conquered by a solitary point in their only home and away meeting.
They will want to correct the fadeout that came within inches of costing them victory on that occasion, but their surging efforts to get on top of the contest and hold Mansfield at bay should give them a world of belief to do so.
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