East Wagga-Kooringal forward James Hodges kicked three goals in his return to first grade on Saturday as the Hawks warmed up for finals with an 11.16 (82) to 8.6 (54) win at Barellan.
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Hodges’ effort in his third game in seniors this year and Brenton Roberts’ safe return from an ankle injury were among the highlights, while Chris Gordon, Jarrod Turner and Nick Hull played their customary strong roles.
The Hawks opened up a 28-point lead in the second quarter and that was the game. Scott Burge and Caleb Dunn-Argus were late outs but EWK coach Matt Hard was happy to avoid any new injuries and rapt in some younger players.
“I thought Keigan King was good for us and Sam McCready (playing only his second senior game) – he came in at the last minute and he was very good,” Hard said.
“And Hodgey, he presented very well for us up forward and gave us a good option there so that was pleasing.”
EWK will get defender Nick Curran back from suspension for next week’s sudden death game against CSU while Harry Fitzsimmons is also every chance of returning rom a broken hand.
Barellan were best served by classy midfielder Sean Ellis who hasn’t disappointed all season and coach Will Overs in his final game as coach.
“They were very good, they’re a much improved side and deserve plenty of credit,” Hard said.
“It was blowing a gale and we didn’t always capitalise on our chances but we got the four points and we finish in the finals.”
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