After a strong performance in the semi-final against All Saints, Liverpool, the St Dom’s Senior AFL side reached it’s third consecutive Grand Final. Our opponents would be another powerhouse team in St Greg’s; a side that had dominated all their previous games, scoring 280 points and conceding 24 across six matches. We knew the match would be our toughest test of the season, but with recent history on our side we entered the game with a quiet confidence that we could get the job done.
From the outset the final was a physical affair, with St Greg’s moving the ball faster and sharper than any of our previous opponents. With both teams finding limited space in the first half, strong leads from forward Liam Bastin created space for our ball players Cameron Gill and Luke Wheelahan to create and finish chances. Greg’s hit back not long after to keep the score close, but terrific individual plays from Joel Myers and Ryan Freeman helped provide a cushion heading into half time. This was then consolidated by some resounding hits from Campbell Fisher and Anthony Farrell, which served to intimidate the Greg’s players who began to lose the arm wrestle. At half time the score was 25-13, but the job was not done.
The second half began as the first ended, with strong hits from our senior defenders and dominance around the ruck. Our agile attackers began to find more space against a tired Greg’s defence, particularly Riley Ginger, who linked well with the forwards to add more points and extend the lead. With players interchanging frequently and momentum on our side, the boys controlled the remainder of the game and were deservedly triumphant in a match of high quality and sportsmanship.
The final score was 48-21 in what would be our best team performance of the season.
Mr J. Hall
Coach
