Bairnsdale experienced mixed results in the Gippsland League elimination finals at Leongatha Recreation Reserve last Sunday, with the fourths securing a victory over Sale while the thirds fell to Maffra.
The fourths set up their win in the second quarter, unleashing a four-goal-to-one blitz to establish a 21-point advantage by half time following an even opening term.
Sale fought valiantly in the second half, cutting the deficit to 12 points at three-quarter time.
However, in a hard-fought final term played largely between the 50-metre arcs, the Redlegs kicked the only goal to lock in a 20-point victory and utilise their double chance.
Tatye Gibbs led the way up forward for Bairnsdale with four goals, while Xavier Parker added two.
Gibbs and Parker were named among the Redlegs’ best alongside Archer Crawley, Bailey Lieuwen, Oakley Hughes and Cedric Taylor.
Hunter Wynd booted two goals for the Magpies and was prominent throughout, receiving strong support from Brody Mason, Oliver Sullivan, Kain Pritchett, Oliver Skeels and Oliver Thexton.
Bairnsdale’s fourths will now face Leongatha this Saturday in a preliminary final showdown at Sale Oval.
In the thirds contest, Bairnsdale was held goalless in the first half and was ultimately outscored six goals to three after the long break, succumbing to Maffra by 34 points.
Harry McGuinn, Harley Young, Xavier Morrison, Kael Frith, Bill Prior and Oscar Baylis fought hard all day for the Redlegs.
Jaylen Henry, Macauley Pendergast, Lachlan Harrington, Jonah Linford, Angus Weatherley and two-goal contributor Jack Halligan spearheaded the winning effort for the Eagles.
