Yarra Valley Water Feature | Donvale

By Christopher Kourtis

Donvale is storming into the 2023 Division Three finals series, after winning their 14th game in a row.

The Magpies sit on top of Division Three with a 16-1 record, picking up their most recent victory against second place Ferntree Gully.

Nicholas Murphy kicked 5 goals on Saturday, helping his side walk away from Wally Tew Reserve with a 12 point victory.

Murphy has been a threat all season, currently sitting third in the division’s goal charts with 48 goals in 16 games.

Donvale coach Kevin Collins credits the hard work of not only Murphy himself, but also forwards coach Justin Goldsmith, for his forward line’s continued success.

“He’s always been a spearhead for us, and he continues to be,” Collins said. “Justin Goldsmith, our forwards coach, has got a really good connection with that group and they work really hard with one another to make sure we get a score on the board.”

Donvale’s victory was not all straightforward though. After trailing by 51 points at half time, Ferntree Gully fought back to win the third quarter 45-14.

“What they did in the third quarter was unbelievable, but that’s what we expect from them,” said Collins. “They’re a quality team… we knew we were in for a game.”

With their positions on the ladder already secured, Donvale and Ferntree Gully will face off for a fourth time this season in the semi-finals.

Coach Collins stresses the importance of staying in the present.

“We’ve got Coldstream, let’s run over them first.”

“It will be a game against Ferntree Gully as it always has been – tough, hard contest that will go right to the bell.”

The Magpies will turn their attention to Coldstream in the last game of the regular season, before facing Ferntree Gully again on the 19th of August.