The 2025 Barkly Australian Football League season roared into action over the weekend, with Round 1 played out under dry skies at Purkiss Reserve, where the Senior Men’s division served up two gritty contests.
The season opener saw 2024 Division Two premiers, the Canteen Creek Blues, take on Barkly Work Camp (BWC) in a low-scoring affair.
BWC began the stronger of the two sides but failed to convert early dominance, kicking just 1.4 in the opening term. They found better rhythm in the second quarter, slotting three goals while holding the Blues to just one, stretching the margin to 24 points at the main break.
The third quarter saw a resurgence from the Blues, who generated five scoring shots but could only convert one goal. This kept BWC in the driver’s seat, though the contest remained in the balance heading into the final quarter.
Both sides tightened up in the closing stages, combining for just three points in a defensive arm-wrestle. When the final siren sounded, BWC emerged 15-point victors in a tense season opener.
Antonio Sandy led the way for BWC with a commanding performance, while Galvin Williams, Rhys McLean, and Marcus Haines provided vital support around the ground. For Canteen Creek, skipper Tyrell Mick was a standout and named best on ground for his side, with Owen Mick and Troyston Corbett showing positive signs.
In the second match of the round, YDU showed they’re a team on a mission in 2025, bouncing back from last season’s heartbreak with a confident 28-point victory over the Spitfires.
Vice-captain Richard Dixon delivered a best-on-ground performance, setting the tone early with physicality and leadership. Up forward, Ishmael Nandy was clinical, booting three goals, while Rico Billy-Joe added two majors of his own. Davin Butcher controlled the midfield battle, giving YDU a clear edge in territory and possession.
Despite the result, the Spitfires showed flashes of promise. Jamie Jones was composed in defence, vice-captain Wayde Gillett provided strong leadership, and Myles Fitz contributed two goals in a lively forward-line display.
With the first round complete, BWC and YDU take early wins into Round 2, while Canteen Creek and the Spitfires will look to bounce back quickly.