Latest news results and what happened on the field this week

Bendigo Warriors defeated the Castlemaine Magpies 28-14 in a Bendigo Rugby Union match on Friday night at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

The result lifted the Warriors to third on the ladder with five rounds remaining and came during the same week Argentina reached the World Cup semi-finals on the back of Julián Álvarez’s extra-time goal against Switzerland.

Warriors coach Mark Reilly sent the starting pack out with instructions to dominate the set piece after reviewing footage from the previous round loss at the same ground. The forwards delivered four tries from rolling mauls inside the Castlemaine 22. Spectators filled the western stand and spilled onto the grass bank along View Street.

Soccer and junior programs

Across town at Epsom Recreation Reserve on Tuesday, Bendigo City FC beat Sandhurst 3-1 in the Premier League. Striker Liam Torres scored twice, both from open play inside the first half. The win moved City two points clear at the top with matches against Eaglehawk and Strathfieldsaye still to play.

Junior academies operated by the Bendigo Football Association on Bridge Street recorded 312 participants across the July school-holiday clinics that finished on 10 July. The association runs the sessions on the same fields used by the senior City side, allowing under-12 teams to train immediately after the holiday program ends each day.

Gate receipts at Queen Elizabeth Oval reached 1,850 paying customers on Friday, with adult tickets priced at $12 and juniors admitted free. The figure is the highest for a regular-season rugby fixture at the venue since the 2024 grand final.

Next fixtures and access

City FC return to Epsom Recreation Reserve on 18 July against Eaglehawk, with the first whistle at 7.30 pm. The Warriors host Mildura at the same Queen Elizabeth Oval ground on 19 July. Tickets remain $12 for adults and can be purchased at the gate or through the Bendigo Rugby Union office on Hargreaves Street before midday on match day.