Hoppers beat Lions in another thriller

Coolamon posted their first win over the Lions in a few years and remain undefeated through the first four rounds after yesterday’s spirited win, 13.12 (90) to 11.13 (79).In a good physical contest, the Lions led to half-time before the Hoppers put on a show in the third term.With the game in the balance, Edyvean stood tall and led the Hoppers’ charge as they booted six third quarter goals to one to set up a handy lead.The Lions came again in the final term and closed within four points but Brendon McKelvie and Eddie Edis continued their good games up forward to steady the ship and clinch the win.Edyvean covered plenty of territory in the ruck for the Hoppers, taking several big marks and helping the visitors win the centre clearances.The performance prompted Coolamon captain-coach Sam Keenan to praise the ever-improving big man.“Ben Edyvean has gone from being a good player to a match winner,” Keenan said.“His effort working back and forward was sensational.“He’s just getting better and better.”Keenan acknowledged just how big a win it was in the context of the Hoppers’ season.“We’re pumped,” Keenan said.“The way everyone was talking about Ganmain being no good this year, I didn’t believe that and I always thought this was going to be a tough one.“We worked pretty hard as a group on the style of game we want to play and it’s only early days but we’re getting better at it.”It was a big win for the Hoppers especially considering the fact they entered the game without handy trio Connor Neyland, Alex Manly and Brett Garrett.For the Lions, Christen McPherson held Keenan out of the contest while David Karlberg was good in defence.KNOCKOUT: Coolamon young gun Kerrod Roberts comes flying in over the top of Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong coach Christen McPherson, only to hit his head hard on landing and take no further part in yesterday’s Riverina Football League clash at Ganmain Sportsground. Pictures: Les Smith