Harney breaks club record with 25 goals against Rumbalara

A country club forward broke a club record after kicking the largest haul of goals this season. Now, he is closing in on a milestone, which seemed impossible a fortnight ago.

Echuca United captain James Harney has a few teammates to thank after breaking a club record with a major goal haul in the Murray league.

The forward had a field day for the Eagles, kicking 25 goals in the side’s 197-point win over Rumbalara on Saturday.

Harney kicked almost 70 per cent of the goals for the club in the contest.

Not only is the tally a record for the club it is also the most in country football this season, beating the previous best, 24, which was set last month by Regan Kyle for Buchan in the Omeo league.

“By half time I had 11 so after that a few boys said we’d try to get it in there to me and see what happens,” Harney said.

“I had seen a few other boys from other teams who have played against Rumbalara get some big hauls.

“I thought I might be able to get a few, maybe 10 to 15, but didn’t expect to get over 20.

“Getting that amount of goals is something I never thought would happen.

“It is pretty special.”

Harney now has a shot at kicking 100 goals in the season after his incredible total most his tally from 66 goals to 91 in just one game.

James Harney kicked 25 goals on the weekend, setting a club record. Picture: Cathlyn Herd.

He now needs nine goals in his final two games to get to the mark.

“I certainly didn't think kicking 100 was on the cards,” he said.

“I can’t believe it. We have two good sides in Deniliquin Rams and Cobram coming up and I daresay they wouldn’t want me to kick it.

“So we’ll see what happens.

“Hopefully I can get a few more the first week and make the last week not so stressful.”

Harney kicked three goals against those two teams earlier this season, so he would need improve on it significantly to get the job done.

Regardless of whether he does the captain is pleased the team has bounced back after a tough season last year.

The team lost its first 11 games last year before winning twice during the season.

This year, the team has already won five games with two rounds to go.

“We had a young side, all local boys, who have stepped up from under-17s.

“It’s been impressive to see them rise up the ranks.

“We’ve certainly improved on last year and now it’s a matter of topping up with players to fill some key positions and keep building from there.

“I’ve certainly enjoyed my time at the club and the Murray league.”