Sport

Cats and Saints slug it out in bottom of table thriller

By Oliver Shedden

Jul 13, 2025

Matthew Butler was once again lethal in front of goal for LBU, kicking six goals against Heathcote. Photo: Jordan Townrow Photo by JORDAN TOWNROW

Lockington-Bamawm United’s finals hopes were given a big dint in round 13 of the Heathcote District Football League as Heathcote narrowly got over the line at Barrack Reserve.

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It was a battle of the seventh and eighth-placed sides in the competition, with White Hills the only team below LBU.

Yet, it was one of the more entertaining matches of the round.

The Saints took an early advantage in the first quarter, nailing five goals to start their day, with the Cats in pursuit with 3.2.

An attacking slump from Heathcote meant LBU took the reins in the second period, drilling five majors to snatch a 12-point half-time lead.

It was a much more competitive third term, with the Saints romping back into the contest thanks to another five-goal effort.

However, the Cats remained consistent in their attacking ability, adding four goals and change to the tally to hold an eight-point lead heading into the decisive final quarter.

Despite kicking a respectable 2.4 down the stretch, the Saints pulled five goals out of the hat in the fourth quarter to surge past LBU and claim a thrilling one-goal victory.

The 14.9 (93) to 16.3 (99) defeat will hurt the Cats’ chances of playing finals, but is indicative of growth from the side this season, with the team consistently scoring throughout four quarters.

Matthew Butler (6) kicked a large portion of LBU’s goals and was named in his side’s best list alongside Charlie Hinks, Thomas Leech, Bowden Stone, Jack O’Callaghan and Vincent Ryan.

The Cats will have a week to rest and train as they have the bye in round 14 and will be back in action in round 15 against arch-rival L-G in a must-win game for both sides.