A LATE goal from Merbein’s Vinnie Rodi secured a fighting come from behind victory for the Magpies, who remained undefeated after three rounds of the SFNL.
Ouyen United were well in control of Merbein early at Kenny Park, holding a 25-point lead at quarter time, however the home side, despite inaccuracies, ran over the top of the Kangas to record a nail-biting four-point win, 9.14 (68) to 10.4 (64).
Late in the game the vistors held a two-point buffer before the final major from the former Mildura on-baller Rodi secured the four points for the Pies.
Josh Carmichael continued his blistering start to the 2021 campaign with another best on ground performance, while speedster Warrick Brady was a standout for Ouyen United.
South Mildura also made a statement of intent by grabbing a 28-point win over Robinvale Euston at Sarah Oval.
The Bulldogs held the Eagles to just two second half goals as they came up trumps 11.10 (76) to 7.6 (48).
The 2019 wooden spoon winners are now 2-1 after three rounds and will look to make it three in a row against Mildura next week.
The result however was another early season blow to Robinvale Euston, who were early season favourites to make top four.
At Brian Weightman Oval, Imperials flexed their muscle in the second half to put away a spirited Red Cliffs side by 69 points, 18.12 (120) to 7.9 (51).
The scoreboard did not reflect the overall contest as the young Tigers side took the fight to Imps in the first half, however the experience and fitness of the home side was telling.
A blanket could be thrown over Imperials best players, with Hards trio — Colby, Bryce and Ryan — all outstanding, as was Alex Douglas, while Jayden Fox finished with four goals.
Red Cliffs coach Vas Tuifao put in a brilliant four quarter effort to lead by example, while former Victorian cricket Jake Reed finished with a ‘five-for’, including four first half majors.
Mildura also won a thrilling encounter at George Gordon Oval, winning by just five points over home side Wentworth, 8.8 (56) to 7.9 (51).
In a low scoring contest, the visitors led by 17-points at three quarter time, before a 3.1 to 1.1 final term brought the final margin back to within a kick.
