Football
1 July, 2025
Kaniva Leeor stun Noradjuha Quantong in nailbiter
Kaniva Leeor United caused one of the upsets of the men’s senior football season, defeating league leaders Noradjuha Quantong on Saturday in round 11 of the Horsham District Football Netball League.
In a thrilling match, Kaniva came from behind in the last quarter to hand the Bombers their first loss of the season, scoring 9.7 (61) to Noradjuha Quantong’s 8.12 (60).
Playing at home, Kaniva started strongly with Jacob Eats and Riley Vivian scoring the first two goals of the game, before Dylan Shelley scored the Bombers’ first points as Kaniva led 15-6 at the first break.
While Kaniva did well to limit Noradjuha Quantong’s scoring, the Bombers demonstrated their defensive strength, limiting Kaniva’s opportunities as they reduced the lead to two at half-time, before going up 46-36 heading into the final term.
But the home side never relented, keeping within reach of the Bombers as the visitors went up 59-48 halfway through the fourth.
Crucial disposals from Kaniva recruit Tyler Roos led to two late-game goals, which put them ahead 61-59.
With minutes to go, a penalty rewarded Noradjuha Quantong a 20-metre set shot to potentially take the lead, but it was unable to be converted, with Kaniva eventually holding on.
Jonno Hicks, co-coach of Kaniva Leeor, says the team’s belief in their process helped them get over the line in a tough game.
“We stuck to the process,” Hicks said.
“We weren’t far off all game, but they (Noradjuha Quantong) were defending really well and we struggled to score.
“We had a few more inside 50s but we weren’t converting them as well as we would have liked.
“It was a tight one that really could have gone either way so it was probably lucky for us to get over the line, but it was really impressive from the boys and I’m very proud of the group.”
For Kaniva, Jacob Eats led the way with five goals up front, while Lachlan Phyland and Jye Walters each bagged a couple for the Bombers.
Vivian and Roos were among Kaniva’s best players, while Dyson Parish and ruckman Jack Vague were the best for the losing side.
Hicks was happy with how the team were able to nullify Noradjuha Quantong’s speed and ball movement.
“Today was probably as good a football as we played for four quarters,” Hicks said.
“They’re undefeated for a reason, and they are impressive with how they move and spread the ball, so the focus today was to pressure them and slow them down.
“We knew it was going to take our best football to try and even match them and get close, so to get the result, to actually get the win, was fantastic.”
Noradjuha Quantong remain in top spot on the ladder while Kaniva are sixth with five wins.