Sport

Resurgent Cats pounce on Eagles

By Matthew Kappos

Jun 28, 2026

Echuca United lost its way in attack in the second half, allowing Finley to surge to victory.

After a season-best effort last round holding Congupna to a draw, Echuca United fell victim to a Finley side that finally put it all together in round 13 of Murray Football League.

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The Cats had been the season’s expert on heartbreak after several narrow losses, but after a balanced first three quarters, Finley found its form and surged away from United at Echuca South Recreation Reserve to win 8.13 (61) to 3.9 (27).

The Eagles looked solid in the first half, although neither side set the scoreboard alight.

Echuca United kicked two goals to one to win the opening term and the lead was only four points at half-time after a second period laden with minor scores.

Finley moved to the front early in the second half as the Eagles went cold.

The Cats would kick the only two goals of the third term to go ahead by seven at the last break, but there was still plenty to play for in the fourth quarter.

That quarter turned out to be by far Finley’s best, as the Cats kicked another four unanswered to pick up a third win of the season by 34 points.

A goalless second half on their home ground won’t please Eagles coach Francis Lias, whose side has shown quality, but lacked consistency through four quarters in many of its defeats.

Finals are likely looking a distant prospect for United at this stage, the Eagles three and a half wins back from the finals places with a record of 3-1-7.

Further growth and consistency looks the more pressing goal over the remaining seven rounds and, after a general by this weekend, the Eagles will look to show just that on the road to lower-ranked Rumbalara on July 11.