Football
12 August, 2025
Demons claim first win of season
It's been a long time coming but the Demons finally have their first win for 2025 – and it came at the expense of the Eagles in round 16 of Wimmera Football Netball League action on Saturday.
For a big chunk of the season, coaches of opposing teams have been praising the Horsham side for determination and effort, some labelling them unlucky in clashes not to get the points.
Final scores on Saturday from Brim Recreation Reserve were the Demons 9.13 (67) to the Eagles 3.13 (31).
The Horsham side led at the end of each quarter, inspired by brilliant performances from the likes of Archie Elliot and Tyler Blake, while Benjamin Janetzki booted three majors.
For Warrack, the ever-reliables in Charlie Penny, Matthew Penny and Sam Hayden led the way.
Jordy Burke, coach of the Demons, handed over the reins temporarily for the last couple of games due to suspension but confirmed he would be back at the helm this Saturday.
Asked who he thought were better players on Saturday, Burke said he wanted to mention the efforts from Blake and Janetzki, who he said did an amazing job stepping up into the coaching role the last couple of weeks.
"They both played extremely well, too," added Burke.
"Archie Elliot (and) Ethan Worthy played brilliant games, and Jack Dalziel down back, he has been in good form and it was good to see him play well again.
"I could name another five or 10 blokes, and I know it's a bit cliché but everyone across the board played their role, which was pleasing," Burke said.
It's been constantly repeated by coaches all over the league the Demons have been unlucky not to have at least a couple of wins on the board at this point of the season as they have shown determination and grit in most of their battles this year.
Asked if that potential finally came to a head on Saturday and everything fell into place, Burke said it was a good way to put it.
"We've been building to a good win but just not getting over the line and we put the four quarters together on Saturday and we were able to get the win," Burke said.
"It's a good boost of confidence for the side."
Bourke, who watched the battle from across the ground, said he put the win down to the side's disposal efficiency.
"We didn't turn the footy over as much as we have in the past," Bourke said.
"We have been playing the right footy but making a few too many mistakes against other sides, so we eliminated that a bit more on Saturday, which was nice as we were able to control the footy a lot more which means you aren't giving it away in areas that are critical."
Bourke said he had addressed with his side the need to get over the "hump" and it was important now they had confidence for the coming weeks against the Thunder and Minyip Murtoa.
"We want to make sure we continue that form," Burke said.
"We could have easily been four or five wins for the year and it's not ideal at this time of the year to be wining our first game, but that confidence now for the boys is something I am looking forward to seeing because it's better late then never and it will be an exciting last two weeks."