The Eagles’ latest test was against Finley, where, unlike previous weeks, they just weren’t able to build any momentum against the Cats, who are looking like contenders this year.
United shocked Finley early, kicking the first goal of the game in the opening minutes.
That was the best things got for the Eagles, as Finley got themselves rolling as the quarter progressed, kicking 3.5 by the end of the term.
The misery was compounded in the second as the Cats kicked a further six goals in the quarter, before another five in the third and four in the fourth, to seal a comprehensive victory, 18.22 (130) to 1.0 (6).
Mitchell Lourey was responsible for the lone major for United and also made it into his side’s best players, along with best-on-ground Matthew Harris, Ryan Stobaus, Brady Simpson, Nash Ramage and Sam Simpson.
For Finley, Paul Massingham’s four goals led the way, while Luke Moore kicked three.
The Eagles blooded new faces Bailey Miller and Cody Verhey, with the two getting their first taste of senior football.
Things aren’t going to get any easier for United (0-10) as they take on the league leaders, Congupna (9-1), next weekend at Echuca South Recreation Reserve.
The club will be celebrating its first Pride Cup round with the fixture.
The Game
Scores
Echuca United: 1.0, 1.0, 1.0, 1.0 (6)
Finley: 3.5, 9.12, 14.17, 18.22 (130)
Goals
Echuca United: Mitchell Lourey
Finley: Paul Massingham 4, Luke Moore 3, Mitchell Carson 2, Charlie Lang 2, Kayden Sharp 2, Bailey Burke, Nik Burns, Lenny Dattoli, Cruz Nash, Jesse White
Best
Echuca United: Matthew Harris, Ryan Stobaus, Brady Simpson, Nash Ramage, Sam Simpson, Mitchell Lourey
Finley: Luke Moore, Jesse White, Reilly Rennick, Levi Middleton, Jake Maconachie, Angus Robertson
13°C