While the unbeaten Goannas were always going to easily account for the last-placed Crows on their home deck in a 24.9 (153) to 4.4 (28) victory, the main interest soon centred around whether Castles could find the last major he needed to crack four figures.

Unfortunately it eluded him, the full forward settling for nine to improve his season total to 45 in just six games, a massive 21 ahead of nearest rival Henry Delves (Griffith).

The Goannas, still undefeated through eight games, have the bye next week before they host Wagga Tigers in round 11.

Castles' teammates tried their hardest to give him another late chance to seal the deal, but celebrations have been put on ice.

"That happens and as a coach I don't mind that," Goannas coach Jeremy Rowe said.

"It's all about the team but you have to have fun with footy and acknowledge when a teammate is going to do something special. It was nice to see our lads want to give him the nut late, and he came very close.

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"We're excited to be a part of it to be honest. We're excited for Trent and everything he's achieved in his career, it's a big milestone.

"We thought he was a massive chance today which wasn't far from the mark, but we'll have to be patient and wait another game."

Canberra recruit Ryan Turnbull, who entered the round with a five-vote lead in the Riverina League player of the year, was again named the Goannas' best.

Paddy Griffin finished with four goals, Jono Male and George Kendall both finished with three and Trent Cohalan slotted two in his 250^th first grade game, all for the Goannas.

MCUE 3.2 12.3 16.5 24.9 (153) def Leeton-Whitton 1.2 3.2 4.3 4.4 (28)

Goals: MCUE - Trent Castles 9, Padric Griffin 4, Jonathan Male 3, George Kendall 3, Trent Cohalan 2, Douglas Arthur 2, Brayden Ambler; Leeton-Whitton - Sam Darley, Thomas Meline, Hunter Booth, Jye Doyle.

Best: MCUE - Ryan Turnbull, Brayden Ambler, Trent Castles, George Kendall, Padric Griffin, Jonathan Male; Leeton-Whitton - Bryce O'Garey, Sam Darley, Alex Daly, Jye Doyle, Hayden Cooper, Mason Dryburgh

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