Eagles fight for win over Rivers

IPSWICH Eagles ruckman Aaron “Skidders” Fortescue found plenty of positives after a hard-fought victory over Pine Rivers on Saturday.

With seven wins and seven losses, Ipswich’s best finish can be sixth in this year’s Division 2 competition.

However, Fortescue said Eagles were already rebuilding for next season, especially with some impressive young players gaining valuable experience.

“If we can win these next two and finish with more wins than losses, it would be a positive on the season,” Fortescue said.

“We can try to keep that momentum through to next year.”

Talented teenagers Lachy Mchardy, Rory Bullard and Shane Mills received more beneficial game time in senior football – in between their under-18 commitments.

A five-goal haul by versatile player Michael Lugg guided Ipswich to Saturday’s 21.12-138 to 17.13-115 win at Mark Marsh Oval.

Full forward Lugg linked well with Brett Nairn (two goals) in the see-sawing battle. They were well supported by captain Luke Konstanciak and Kyle McHardy, who kicked three goals each.

“He’s a pretty good target to have up front. He’s got good hands,” Fortescue said of Lugg, who started the season in the defensive line.

“The team played pretty well together.”

After building a lead in the third quarter, the Eagles had to work hard in the final stanza to secure victory.

Fortescue, 29, said he was keen to play next season but would make a final decision in the off-season.

Pine Rivers beat the Eagles Reserves 9.9-63 to 7.4-46 on Saturday.

Both Eagles teams play their second-last matches against Caboolture at Lime- stone Park on Saturday.