Eagles soar to maiden triumph

By Matthew Kappos

Jul 21, 2024

Bendigo Pioneer Oliver Poole kicked a goal and was among Echuca United’s best in their breakthrough win over Cobram. Photo: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

The wait is finally over for Echuca United.

After a less-than-ideal campaign on the field, the Eagles senior football side had reason to celebrate on Saturday when it defeated Cobram by seven points at Echuca South Recreation Reserve.

United did most of its work early in the round 14 Murray League fixture, kicking three goals in the first quarter against the more fancied Cobram.

The Tigers could only respond with one of their own and the Eagles continued to pile on the pressure in the second quarter, kicking two unanswered goals in the period.

The half-time score saw United in the box seat, leading 5.4 (34) to Cobram’s 1.5 (11).

In a tense, defensive second half, the Eagles made very few additional inroads but were able to force the Tigers to continue a poor afternoon in front of goal.

Cobram could only manage 1.4 in the third quarter and another 1.2 in the fourth, the day belonging to Echuca United.

“The improvements been coming naturally just by doing the work,” said Echuca United president Peter Quanchi.

“(The squad) come down Thursday nights for training, they come to games. They are getting better, and obviously, Saturday was a reward for that.”

Sam Simpson’s two goals helped his side to a breakthrough victory, while Shaun Haffenden, Oliver Poole, and Reece Sidebottom also got their name on the scoresheet.

Justin Cantwell celebrated his 200th appearance for Echuca United with a memorable victory.

Having secured a first win, the Eagles have an opportunity to make it two on the bounce when they travel to Rumbalara, the other team with a single win to its name, next weekend.

United will then have the chance to play spoiler against three possible finals sides, Finley, Numurkah and Congupna, to round out their season.