Sport
14 April, 2026
Newstead stars in round one clash with Avoca
Newstead delivered a powerful statement on Saturday, defeating Avoca by 77 points in a one-sided contest.
The result sees Newstead sitting comfortably on top of the ladder with a remarkable percentage of 355, while Avoca remains anchored to the bottom, struggling with a percentage of just 28.
Despite a competitive opening term, the game quickly turned into a showcase of Newstead’s dominance.
Holding a narrow five-point lead at quarter time, the home side surged ahead across the final three quarters, piling on 14 goals to two and finishing with a commanding 36 scoring shots to Avoca’s 14.
Avoca entered the match undermanned after losing a key recruit midweek, who had been brought in to cover the absence of Zack Lubeek but lodged a clearance out on Wednesday, leaving a significant hole in the Bulldogs’ lineup.
Their troubles deepened early in the match when key player Byron Wynd was concussed in the opening quarter following an awkward landing after a hip-and-shoulder contest. He took no further part in the game.
One of the Bulldogs’ few bright moments came in the first term, when Nathan Coghlan thrilled with a spectacular mark, climbing onto an opponent’s shoulders before converting. Coghlan went on to kick three of Avoca’s four goals.
For Newstead, former Trentham player and Daylesford recruit Sam Winnard starred up forward, finishing with six goals in a dominant display that highlights his importance to the side in 2026.
There was a moment of concern for the home side when star midfielder Joel Smith appeared to suffer a knee issue early in the match. However, he returned to the field and went on to deliver a best-on-ground performance.
Smith and Winnard, along with Will Moran, Michael Dalrymple, Lachlan O’Brien and Nick Lord, were all key contributors in the win.
For Avoca, reigning best and fairest Alex Riches battled hard, supported by recruit Keenan McLinden. Scott Cawthan, Nathan Coghlan, Jordan Thomas and Tyson Gray also worked hard in a tough outing.