Sport
4 June, 2026
Navies hold onto hope
As ever, Charlton found it difficult to score, but three goals to the Bulls’ nine in the second half gave some hope of further improvement down the track.
CHARLTON fell to another heavy defeat, losing to Birchip Watchem by 111 points, but the Navy Blues fought out the game well in perhaps their best performance of the season.
As ever, Charlton found it difficult to score, but three goals to the Bulls’ nine in the second half gave some hope of further improvement down the track.
Brownlow Medal winner and Collingwood premiership star Dane Swan will play for the Navies against Boort after the King’s Birthday weekend bye, so there is optimism and genuine excitement around Charlton.
The Bulls got off to a strong start at George Cartwright Oval, with forwards Ricardo Liparota and Joe Reid both on the scoreboard in the first quarter on their way to six goals apiece. A 68-point half-time lead showed Birchip Watchem’s dominance, but after the main break Charlton was much more competitive.
The ever-reliable Ben Lanyon was among the Navies’ best players again, beating Dan Rendell in the ruck, and he was also one of four players to kick goals on the day.
Jaydon Stiles, a former SANFL player who has transferred from Gordon in the Central Highlands league, was excellent on his debut for Charlton.
Midfielder Sam Simmons was the Bulls’ best, with another onballer Dale Hinkley and forward Zane Connick also prominent.
The Bulls, who are fourth, a game ahead of the chasing pack, travel to Donald after the bye.
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