Three of the four games in April were against 2025 A-grade finalists, and since this article is being written after round five, let’s also not fail to mention the Cats’ defeat of the previously unbeaten Echuca as well.
A force behind Mooroopna’s untouchable start has been in its defence.
While its opposition has been of the highest quality, the Cats boast the third least points conceded, behind only Euroa and Echuca, which have both played the uncompetitive Kyabram in its early fixture.
Alongside VNL-listed star Dayna Williams, there’s been another consistent Cat locking down the goal circle in Mooroopna’s bid for a deep September run this season - Caitlin McLachlan.
McLachlan has been clamping some of the best goalers in the competition, holding Shepparton’s Kim Borger to an equal-season low 26 goals when the Cats handed the Bears their first loss since 2024, while Echuca’s Rose Byrne was held to her second-lowest goals total of the year when defended by McLachlan.
Additionally, she’s contributed to Mooroopna’s overall stinginess - four out of five opponents scored their lowest totals for the season so far against the Cats.
It’s been a tactical move that has blossomed into a master stroke for Mooroopna coach Di Hanslow, with McLachlan changing from her goal defence role to a goalkeeper positioned on the league’s stronger bodies.
“We’ve used Caitlin as a GD in the past, however we’ve had the option to move her and Dayna around this season,” Hanslow said.
“The league’s full of strong big goal shooters at the moment, and she’s contained them well with her physical strength and frame.
“She’s getting stronger and stronger every week, and taking on board the information for her role and stepping up each time.”
Not only is her skill set well-regarded in the Cats’ court, her vocal leadership sets up Mooroopna structurally as opposition transition from end to end.
It’s a trait Hanslow lauds, as the Cats coach accepts the side’s offensive ball movement is still not at its peak, and thus preparation for quick defence off turnover has been vital in the 5-0 start.
“She’s very vocal when sitting back as the ball comes out the attacking end,” Hanslow said.
“We all know what Caitie is doing.
“You’ll hear a lot of communication inside the circle between her and Dayna too.
“It’s been really good to see them gel.
“I wasn’t sure with the move to begin with since she’s been a dominant goal defence for ages, but she’s embraced he role and learning week by week.
“It’s fantastic that she’s getting the rewards and acknowledgement.”
Mooroopna’s next month doesn’t get any easier with matches against Euroa and Seymour scheduled in May, but with McLachlan exponentially growing in her newfound position, the Cats may continue to purr.
Caitlin McLachlan’s April stats
Games: 4
Goals conceded: 148
Average goals conceded: 37
Best game: 31 goals conceded versus Shepp Swans (round one)
