Looking to make amends for their loss in their last game against Bendigo, the EMUs’ stocks were bolstered by the return of key players Josh Hunter and Brad Colliver, adding run and class through the midfield.
Kicking with the wind in the first quarter, a fast start was required.
A tap from ruckman Oliver Oranje to Mark Van Poeteran saw a quick kick to an unmarked Ron O’Bryan on the 50, finding Garner Smith who marked strongly and put the EMUs on the board.
A tough contest ensued with Sun Ash Formosa keeping the visitors in the game with two brilliant goals.
The bullish Suns midfield took control of the game in the second quarter led by EMUs players on loan Troy Ramsey, Paul Lavars and Bob O’Connor.
The EMUs still managed to hold a narrow three-point lead at the main break despite some errant kicking, and a half-time spray by coaches Jeff Abela and Bruce McCahon inspired the side to straighten up and come out firing in the third quarter.
The EMUs’ tall stocks were bolstered by the return of Duane Kelly for his first game of the season and his presence enabled on-ballers Blair Pascoe, Adam Davison and Kelvin Nye to wrestle back control of the game.
Twins Mick and Gary Davison provided grunt and smart ball-use through the centre, while the silky skills of centreman Troy Arlow proved the difference.
Forwards Dave Chapman and Jared Johnson seemed to be everywhere in the third quarter with excellent delivery inside to full-forward Kevin Pascoe, and the EMUs took a three-goal lead into the last break.
Kicking into the wind in the last quarter, the EMUs’ defence led by Lucas Walker, Aaron Prewett and Damien Hammond managed to hold the Suns’ forwards goalless for the majority of the quarter.
When EMU recruit Scott Carson put through his third major late in the game, the result was beyond doubt.
A junk-time goal by Craig Danswan helped even up the final score for the visitors but the EMUs still ran out winners 8.9 (57) to 5.3 (33).
Off the field, the EMUs welcomed their life members and sponsors to a function thanking them for their continued support.
The next game will be the return fixture against the Samaria Suns in Benalla on June 4, and it is hoped the team bus is functioning by then.
EMUs goals: Scott Carson 3, Blair Pascoe, Kelvin Nye, Mark Van Poeteran, Damien Hammond
EMUs best: Scott Carson, Damien Hammond, Kelvin Nye, Blair Pascoe, Josh Hunter
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