Football
20 May, 2026
Dees earn gritty win
Laharum’s senior football side backed up their win over Noradjuha Quantong with a hard-fought win over the Swifts in challenging conditions at Cameron Oval on Saturday May 16. The round-six clash saw the Demons kick 6.19 (55) to the Swifts’ 3.10 (28).
The home side dominated possession and territory in the opening quarter, holding a 23-1 lead at the first break.
Laharum continued to have control of the football in the second quarter but struggled to consistently capitalise on inside 50 chances, ultimately entering half-time with a 40-8 lead.
Heavier rain disrupted free-flowing football and forced more stoppages but the Swifts managed to play themselves back into the game, reducing the lead to 24 (49-25) at the final break.
Neither side managed to hit a major in the final quarter, with the Demons finishing 27-point winners.
Laharum’s Josh Hutchinson and Shannon Argall led the side with two goals each, while Justin Puruntatemeri had two for the Swifts.
For the Demons, Hutchinson, Monty Wynne, Reuben Launder and Pat Lattanzio had strong performances, while Teague Vincent, Liam Scott, Brett Hargreaves and Bourke Nicholls were among the best for the Swifts.
Laharum coach Robbie Miller said his side struggled in front of the sticks in the first half before the second half became a slog between the two teams.
“With the conditions, we wanted to put the score on the board while the football was relatively good and not so heavy,” Miller said.
“We knew as the game went on that the footy was going to be quite heavy and very slippery, so getting a good start early was key.
“Unfortunately, as the game wore on, we were very inaccurate with quite easy shots on goal.
“It probably wasn’t so much footy in the second half; it was repeat stoppage after repeat stoppage and just about getting meterage and getting the ball forward at all costs.
“It was more about determination, and Stawell brought it to us as well.
“It was a fierce second half through sheer physicality and a lot of bodies on the ground.
“We were happy to walk away with the win.”
The Demons coach continued to be impressed by his young players, particularly young leaders Monty Wynne and Josh Hutchinson.
“Monty and Hutch, we view them as long-term footballers for this club, and the way they've handled themselves over the preseason and then the first part of this season, they've really taken that step forward as senior leaders and great footballers,” Miller said.
“They're playing their role perfectly and I think they’ve really matured in how they can impact the game.
“Across the board we have Pat Lattanzio, who has strung a couple of great games together, as well as Lewis Hofmaier on the wing, who is playing great football this season.”
“To have those guys lead, it’s great for the future.”