The Spitfires solidified their standing in the 2025 Barkly Australian Football League with a finals-like victory over Epenarra.
Favourites heading in, the Spitfires absorbed the Saints’ early pressure and held them goalless until the third term. Wasteful kicking kept the margin from blowing out, but their dominance around the ground ensured the result never looked in doubt.
Delaicee Hansen continued her standout season, working tirelessly up the field and slotting two goals. Taneal Croydon and Rachel Baker also kicked two apiece, while Kirsty Driver, Delilah Chmielewski, and Yolande Arinda provided strong support.
For Epenarra, Glenys Peterson was influential, with Carmen Peterson and Pammy Foster among the better performers.
In the men’s division, Elliott overcame a spirited BWC in a nail-biter at home.
The visitors stunned the Hawks early, holding a 10-point lead at quarter-time, which was cut to two by the main break. BWC regained an eight-point buffer at three-quarter time and looked set for an upset after extending their lead with an early final-term goal.
But Elliott responded in trademark fashion, booting three late goals to snatch a six-point win. Jye Bill earned high praise for his performance, Leroy Jones maintained his strong season, and Lane Jackson kicked two important majors.
The loss leaves BWC needing a strong finish to the final two rounds, with fifth and sixth place closing in.
YDU dealt a significant blow to the Saints’ finals hopes with a polished display at Purkiss Reserve.
From the outset, YDU’s clean ball use and precise movement put Epenarra’s defence under strain. Led by Lyndon Chungaloo, the Saints created chances for Ishmael Nandy and Tyrell Green, who each kicked three goals. Isiah Farrell-Nelson and Kostya Green were also standouts.
Epenarra found some joy through Xavien Lewis, Cameron Camphoo, and Adrian Lewis, but will need to regroup quickly ahead of a crucial meeting with Ali Curung this weekend.