For the first time in four years, Nilma Darnum had both their seniors and reserves claim wins when they defeated Nyora 9.10 (64) to 5.6 (36).
Fittingly, former Nyora player Nick Carrigy was able to slot home the first goal and open their account, kick starting the Bombers.
It was a tussle after the first bounce, with Nyora sticking fat alongside the Bombers in the first term to trail by just a goal.
The Bombers were able to get on top in the second quarter through some strong work from Chris Larosa and Jack Ruddell in the middle.
Carrigy was able to get on top early, palming down the ball perfectly to his midfielders as the game got more contested as the rain arrived.
Coach Matt Shorey encouraged his troops to bite off the risky kick in order to break the Nyora defensive line and they tried with gusto, despite a few mistakes.
Dylan Heylen was proving to be an issue for Nilma, the gun Saint picking up plenty of touches through the middle and backline.
Nyora were able to hit back after halftime, booting three goals, but Nilma Darnum were steadfast and managed to hit the scoreboard to steady and keep the Saints at bay.
Three goals in the final term allowed the Bombers to enjoy the win, their second of the season, with coach Matt Shorey happy to be back on the winner’s list.
“We made a lot of mistakes, but we took on that risky kick inside and that was good to see, it was probably just our forward entries that hurt us.
“The next two months are really important for us. It was good to get that win for some confidence," Shorey said.
Isaac Ketchen returned from a hamstring injury and played mainly forward, working his way into the game throughout the four quarters.
Chris Larosa was brilliant for the Bombers, standing out with his contested work and ability to win the footy in the midfield, driving his side all afternoon, while Shorey praised the work of Ruddell who played one of his best games for the year.
Ryan Parsons kicked two in the win, with Nick Carrigy, Isaac Ketchen, Tanner Thomsen and Dylan Cann rounding out the best.
For Nyora, Dylan Heylen was simply exceptional for the Saints and the coach is standing up during the season so far. Anthony Galley, Jacob Bohmer, Jordan Anderson, Nick Fairbank and Tyson Fievez were the best for Nyora in a game they may look back on as an opportunity missed.
Nyora will face another test next week when they take on Poowong at home, while Nilma-Darnum will go into the bye with a renewed sense of confidence.
