Football
11 April, 2025
Burras celebrate three decades
Just like they did 30 years ago, the Burras and Dimboola will face off on Saturday.
But instead of celebrating Minyip Murtoa's addition to the fold as a combined club, they'll be celebrating three decades as part of the Wimmera Football Netball League.
There's no denying Dimboola will be looking to rain on the Burra's parade, and coach of Minyip Murtoa, Gareth Hose, acknowledges their opposition this Saturday has recruited well.
"We're expecting them to play an attacking, fast brand of footy," Hose said.
"They have a number of dangerous players we need to think about.
"We're looking for an even contribution across the board from our group; we'll need to be strong in the contest, apply pressure to the opposition and be efficient with our ball use."
Hose said the battle in the middle would go a long way towards shaping the contest and early in the season cohesion from the team would also play a part in securing the win.
"Teams need to work out their best combinations and, as mentioned, you need everyone contributing," he said.
It will take an effort from the entire team over four quarters to get the Burras over the line on Saturday.
"I'm looking for players to put the team first and play their role – we don't want to rely on a few to get a result," Hose said.
All in all, the Burras' coach would love to get the win for their anniversary, in front of past and present players.
"It should be a massive day for the club with many people returning to celebrate the 30 years," he said.
"Hopefully we can play some good footy and put in a good performance to give them something to enjoy."
Standing in the Burras' way, though, is Dimboola, who weren't able to grab the points when the clubs first played 30 years ago but will be keen to get the win this time.
"I think the game will be fast-flowing utilising the big ground and the reunion is going to be a big day for the club with plenty of past and present players returning for the day," Dimboola coach Dean Toet said.
"They'll be wanting to perform for them."
Toet said his side would look to minimise their risks and apply plenty of pressure.
"I think it will be a close contest but the team with the least turnovers will win."
Jayden Kuhne will return to the Dimboola line-up and Toet warned he would be out to prove a point.
Simon Hobbs, a premiership player at Horsham and Kalkee, had also had a massive pre-season and would be primed for a great hit-out, the coach said.
"Jono Ross returns after a season away fresh off a Northern Territory premiership and we'll expect him to create plenty of run off half-back," Toet said.
"But as a whole we have had good numbers on the track and we're excited about the season."