Mines Rovers shake off dogged Kambalda

Ryan Fisher’s value to Kambalda was underpinned by three goals but Mines Rovers rallied after half-time on the Eagles’ home ground in a 65-point win, 15.14 (104) to 6.3 (39), to conclude the Goldfields Football League’s round-two fixtures on Saturday.

Following a round-one bye, Kambalda took it up to the blue-and-whites early by kicking the opening goal and were within 20 points at half-time.

It was an encouraging start by the Eagles, but Mines Rovers upped the ante with a 10-goals-to-three second half.

Nick Reghenzani led the winners’ effort with five goals and Chase Stubbs, Zach Hunter and Brad Dick booted two apiece.

After his group notched a second straight win to start the season, Diorites coach Marc Johnstone had no doubts that Kambalda — after a winless 2023 campaign — would be a serious test for all rival teams this year.

“They were really competitive early and had probably eight players who would walk into any GFL side,” he said.

“I thought they were very well structured and at quarter-time we realised that we were in for a real fight.

“Any team that goes out there (to Kambalda) slightly undermanned will be challenged (and) they could have more players coming in.”

Fisher kicked the last of his three goals just before three-quarter-time before Mines Rovers iced their second straight win with a six-goal final term.

Dylan Parker, Ethan Bowing and James Murray backed Fisher’s efforts with a goal each for Kambalda.

Mines Rovers were without Mitchell medallist Logan Hughes and small forward Bevan Bennell, and Johnstone rested brothers Jordan and Cale Delbridge, recruit Jake Toa and defender Matt Braham late — ahead of a clash against Kalgoorlie this Saturday.

“Injury-wise, we got through OK and we haven’t gone three-and-zip to open a season in a while which is a big incentive,” Johnstone said.

“Everyone on the list will be available and it’s only early in the season, but it’s really pleasing that the depth is there.

“I’d probably be looking to make four changes for the Kalgoorlie game.”

Kambalda are also at home this Saturday against Railways.