The Cowra Eagles Senior Men’s side continued their impressive run of form heading into the finals with a 2–0 victory over CYMS in Orange on Sunday.
With CYMS fighting for a finals spot and Cowra looking to maintain their rhythm, the game was a hard battle.
Coach Adam Gambrill said the opening 45 minutes reflected the intensity of two sides with plenty on the line.
“The first 45 minutes saw an evenly matched contest, with both sides sharing possession and creating a few opportunities,” Gambrill said.
Despite missing Ed Galea and several other key players, the Eagles fielded a determined lineup that dug deep from the opening whistle.
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Their breakthrough came just before the half-hour mark.
“Cowra found the breakthrough around the 30-minute mark of the first half when Brad delivered a fantastic corner that Mitchell Beer headed on, allowing Alex Boswell to neatly finish at the back post,” Gambrill said.
“That goal gave us a 1–0 lead heading into the halftime break.”
The well-worked team goal settled Cowra and put them in control at the interval.
Coming out after halftime, the Eagles tightened their grip on the contest, controlling possession and keeping CYMS pinned back.
Though CYMS created some half-chances, Cowra’s defense stood tall and remained composed.
“In the second half, we focused on maintaining control, and they dominated possession for most of the period,” Gambrill said.
“CYMS had a few half-chances but couldn’t find a way through the our defense,” he said.
Cowra eventually sealed the result with a decisive second goal midway through the half, closing out the game in confident fashion and ensuring the three points would head back to Cowra.
While it was a complete team effort, Ethan Willis was singled out as the standout performer, earning Man of the Match for his commanding display.
“A standout performer in this match was Ethan Willis, who was named Man of the Match.”
“Willis was rock-solid in defense and showed creativity going forward, delivering what was arguably his best performance of the season,” Gambrill said.
His composure and energy in both defensive and attacking phases proved crucial to Cowra’s dominance.
For the Eagles, the win not only strengthens their finals credentials but also demonstrates their depth, with players stepping up in the absence of key names.
“This victory is another crucial step as the Eagles prepare for the finals.”
“With consistent performances and standout contributions like this, Cowra is building strong momentum for the business end of the season,” Gambrill said.
