Sam Murray extends at Wangaratta Rovers and takes a screamer

A former Collingwood player has taken a screamer in the dying seconds of a country Victorian game to ensure his team won a thriller. See the mark here.

Ovens & Murray FNL, Round 10, Wangaratta Magpies V Wangaratta Rovers, at Wangaratta, Sam Murray, 13, coaching, Wangaratta Rovers, Wangaratta Magpies won 19-13-127 v 6-8-44, Picture Yuri Kouzmin

There might have been a few fans on Saturday in the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League saying ‘Sam Murray you star’ after his heroics for Wangaratta Rovers helped his team beat Lavington.

In an effort reminiscent of Leo Barry’s famous grab in the 2005 AFL grand final, Murray took a mark in the final moments of the clash at Lavington with his team leading by just three points and with the opposition surging into attack.
Murray’s spectacular mark over a big pack came with just 25 seconds left on the clock and ensured his team held on to win, 12.8. (80) to 11.11. (77).

In a see-sawing match the Rovers had to come back after trailing early in the final term after Lavington themselves had come back from being three goals down at half time.

The stunning grab ensured the Rovers remain unbeaten, at 5-0, joining Yarrawonga at the top of the ladder.

“It was a match winner for ourselves and what we needed with a few seconds to go,” Rovers co-club president Wendy Lester said.

“He knew it was on the line and stood up when he needed to.

“It was fantastic.”

The win capped off a big week for both club and player with Murray re-signing for the club until the end of 2025.

Rovers player-coach Sam Murray is staying at the club until 2025. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

The 26-year-old joined the club as player-coach in 2023, signing a two-year-deal originally.

“We sat down pretty early this season after a couple of rounds to review where we were up to,” Lester said.

“We were pretty happy with the way things were going, he was happy with the club, it was a mutual decision.

“Sam’s been doing a terrific job since he’s come on board with us.

“He’s been developing our juniors and the vibe has been pretty good.”

Wangaratta Rovers take on North Albury this week.