Charity Shield a success

By James Matthey

Wagga Wagga’s Maher Oval was the perfect backdrop for an action-packed night of AFL action in the Riverina’s annual Charity Shield on Saturday March 23.

2012 Farrar League premiers, Temora, caused a massive upset by defeating their more fancied Riverina Football League (RFL) opponents, Narrandera.

Temora sounded an ominous warning to their rivals after their convincing 30-point win over last season’s RFL champions.

Their 86-56 win provided an exciting spectacle for the crowd, and was inspired by a best-on-ground performance from Jake Barrett.

Temora coach, Mark Kruger, told The Daily Advertiser he was optimistic about the upcoming season after drawing a lot of promising signs from the game.

“Compared to last year I think we are a lot fitter and stronger – a lot of the young boys have added some muscle and we have been doing some really hard running as well.

“I am very impressed with our fitness levels and I expect us to have a very good season.”

In the night’s other match, best-on-ground Chris Gordon led Collingullie AK to a comfortable 91-30 victory over Osborne.

The yearly occasion pits the premiers of the Hume, Farrar and Riverina Leagues against each other.

Also on show for the fans were the premiers from the Riverina’s participating netball leagues, who competed in a round-robin tournament on the night.

The Murray Magpies were crowned the victors, coming out on top in a field that included Narrandera, Temora and CSU.

While the on-field action would have whet the appetite of AFL fans across the Riverina, even more significant was the $5000 raised for local charity, Country Hope, through gate proceeds, raffles and canteen sales.

Country Hope provides support services to the families of children who have been diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

AFL Riverina Football Operations Manager, Shane Buchanan, said it was fantastic to see the local community rally around the Riverina’s showpiece event.

“Raising over $5000 was a fantastic outcome for a local charity, and the event was well supported by an enthusiastic local community.”

“Maher Oval was in pristine condition, and played host to some high quality games considering it’s still the pre-season,” said Buchanan.

AFL Riverina will hold their official season launch next Wednesday, April 3, part of which will be devoted towards announcing the contract extensions of major sponsors.