Round one of the 2025 Big Rivers Football League got underway last Thursday night, with the Women’s division leading a thrilling doubleheader to launch the new season.
Eastside opened their 2025 redemption campaign with an impressive 17-point victory over the Katherine South Crocs. Led by Vayda Menmuir, the Blues dominated territory, holding the Crocs scoreless until the final quarter. Ayesha Kay and Daena Thompson were influential around the contest, setting up Shahleena Martin for two goals and Kaylia Coolwell for another as Eastside set an early benchmark.
Saturday’s women's clash saw the reigning premiers, the Arnhem Crows, continue their dominance with a powerful win over the Ngukurr Bulldogs. Picking up right where they left off from last season’s Grand Final, the Crows overwhelmed Ngukurr with midfield brilliance. Moniquah Ulamari was outstanding, setting up repeated scoring opportunities, while Lynelle Ahfat stole the show with a six-goal haul. Tynequa Bush, Rianna Ryan, and Karen Alangale also hit the scoreboard with two goals apiece, underscoring the Crows' firepower.
In the second match up on Thursday night, the Katherine River Sporting Club Saints made their debut against a formidable Katherine Camels side. Fresh off the 2024/25 TIO NTFL season, Scott Carlin starred at Nitmiluk Oval, dominating through the midfield and adding three goals to his name. Brother and vice-captain Josh Carlin also chipped in with three goals, but it was Liam Holt-Fitz who proved unstoppable in attack, booting six majors in a commanding performance.
Despite the loss, there were positive signs for the Saints, with Mitchell Johns kicking two goals, and strong contributions from Cullen Avenell and Kynan Milde.
Saturday’s opening men's match delivered a thriller, as the Ngaliwurru Lions burst out of the gates against the Arnhem Crows with a total of 11 goals in the first quarter to claim a five-point lead. However, the second term turned into an arm-wrestle, with neither side managing a score.
The Crows regained control in the third quarter, edging ahead by seven points at the final break. In a tense finish, the Crows held their nerve, kicking four goals to the Lions’ three in the last term to claim a hard-fought 16-point win. Cassien Sambono was a standout with four goals, while Kiefin Mardi took out Best on Ground honours for Arnhem.
Meanwhile, the Ngukurr Bulldogs signalled their intentions early with a ruthless performance against the Gurindji Eagles. A 16-point lead at quarter time blew out to a 42-point advantage by halftime as Ngukurr flexed their muscles. The Bulldogs were relentless after the main break, piling on five goals in the third term and an electrifying eight in the final quarter to storm home with a 114-point win, 140 to 26.
In the final match of the round, the Gulf Storm faced the Garrak Bombers. After a tight first quarter, the Bombers took flight, booting two unanswered goals in the second and five more in the third to build a winning lead. Although the Storm threatened with two early goals in the fourth, the Bombers held firm, responding with two of their own to seal an impressive Round One victory.
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