Waaia Bombers Mitchell Cleeland’s 300th game mysteriously called off in 4th quarter, leading by 99 points

The milestone 300th game of a much loved Waaia Bomber was overshadowed as a country footy game in northern Victoria was abandoned midway through the last quarter. Here is what we know.

Bomber Mitchell Cleeland (left) spoils Strathmerton’s Jake Anderson in last year’s Grand Final. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

Waaia’s Mitchell Cleeland’s 300th Picola and District league game was mysteriously abandoned after an incident in the middle of the fourth quarter against the Deniliquin Rovers at the weekend.

It’s unclear why the game was called off but it is believed the field umpires sent both teams from the ground with Waaia leading by whopping 99 points — 18.10 (118) to 2.7 (19).

Picola and District league operations manager Shane Railston confirmed the clash had been abandoned but would not explain why.

The reigning premiers had added 14 points to their third term score with the Rovers adding just one behind.

The abandonment was a bitter end for Cleeland but the Bombers still paid tribute to his overall contribution to the club.

“Born and bred in Waaia, he has consistently demonstrated his loyalty and love for the club,” Waaia said in a social media post.

“A natural-born leader, Mitch has not only excelled on the field but has also successfully coached several premierships, showcasing his profound understanding of the game and his ability to inspire and guide his teammates.”

Connor Brown and Charlie Burrows both kicked three goals for Waaia.

The win moves Waaia to fourth on the ladder. Rovers are in eighth.

The Bombers have won 12 premierships in the Picola and District league.