McDonald's Nine-Goal Haul Sinks Determined Demons
Yarram's winning momentum came to an end on Saturday, with Yarram YYN proving too polished in attack to claim a 57-point victory, 18.15 (123) to 10.6 (66).
Coming off an encouraging win over Sale City the previous week, the Demons faced a significant challenge before the opening bounce, making four changes to the side. Coach Brett Mitchell said the absences tested the club's depth against one of the competition's stronger outfits.
"We had to make four changes to the team from the game against Sale City, so our depth was really tested this week," Mitchell said.
Despite the final margin, Yarram made an impressive start, booting the opening three goals of the match before YYN found its rhythm. The visitors piled on six first-quarter goals to establish a 21-point lead at the first break and maintained control for the remainder of the contest.
Mitchell said the early stages highlighted both the positives and the challenge his side faced.
"We actually started really well, kicking the first three goals of the quarter. However, they got their running game going in the later part of the first quarter," he said.
"I was really proud of the team's effort all day. We never gave up and we were very competitive in general play. They were just a bit more polished than us, particularly up forward."
That polish came largely through star forward Dean McDonald, who produced a match-winning performance with nine goals. While Yarram remained competitive around the ground, the Demons were unable to contain the damaging spearhead.
"We were competitive all day. The difference was just YYN's Dean McDonald kicking nine goals. He is a quality player that we could not stop defensively," Mitchell said.
Yarram still found plenty of avenues to goal, with Kayleb Pearce leading the way with three majors. Daniel Vardy and Tyler Chisholm each kicked two, while Cody Harrison, Luke Hunter and Ben Vardy added one apiece.
Daniel Vardy, Kayleb Pearce, Toby Mitchell, Owen Gourley, Ben Vardy and Tyler Chisholm were named the Demons' best players.
The loss leaves Yarram looking to finish the season strongly, with Mitchell confident reinforcements will provide a timely boost.
"I think it's really important we finish the year well. Every game you play has relevance, and we have four quality players to come back into the team next week, which will assist with our depth and midfield rotations," he said.
Scores:
YYN 6.5 (41) 10.8 (68) 15.9 (99) 18.15 (123)
Yarram 3.2 (20) 5.3 (33) 7.6 (48) 10.6 (66)
Yarram Goals: Kayleb Pearce 3, Daniel Vardy 2, Tyler Chisholm 2, Cody Harrison, Luke Hunter, Ben Vardy.
Best: Daniel Vardy, Kayleb Pearce, Toby Mitchell, Owen Gourley, Ben Vardy, Tyler Chisholm.
