The Courier |
IT'S been a long time coming, but Bungaree has finally booked a spot in the Grand Final.
An enthralling preliminary final on Saturday saw the Demons hold off Gordon to win by nine points.
It was a seesawing contest from start to finish, with momentum constantly shifting between the two teams.
Just when it looked like one side had the game on its own terms, the other found a way to respond.
A strong opening half provided Bungaree with a 23-point buffer at the main break, but within just ten minutes of the third term, Gordon trailed by less than a goal.
Indeed, with their renowned fitness and an extra week's break, the Eagles appeared set to run all over their opponents.
Yet, like all good teams, Bungaree was able to hit back.
A thrilling final term saw Gordon mount challenge after challenge, only for the Demons to reply on the scoreboard every time.
Ultimately, the Eagles simply could not match Bungaree's will and determination to succeed.
In the Demons' third-straight preliminary final, it was certainly third time lucky.
Bungaree coach Greg Middleton was full of praise for his side's resilience.
"We really had to dig deep," Middleton said.
"Gordon are a fantastic side and we have the utmost respect for them. We knew they would come at us and that it was going down to the wire.
"I thought we were a lot more composed than we have been in the past. We seemed to make the right decisions late in the game."
As Bungaree attempts to claim its first premiership since 1991, Middleton believes his team is full of confidence.
"In terms of maturity and self-belief, we're a better side than last year," he said.
"They have really bought into what needs to be done. And I think with those extra games under their belt, we've had players go from good to really good."
While Gordon produced some excellent football against the Demons, it appeared to lack the experience necessary to get across the line.
No more was that illustrated than in the final scoreboard, which showed that the Eagles had more scoring shots than Bungaree, but lacked the composure to convert accurately.
Though dejected by the loss, Gordon coach Corey Grills remained positive about the side's prospects going forward.
"The club has come a long way," Grills said.
"We have to look forward to the future and stick together. There's a lot of other clubs who didn't get the opportunity we did.
"It'll burn deep, but it's more experience for all of us. It'll hold us in good stead for the future.
Utility Brad Hallam was terrific for the Eagles, as were the likes of Chris McGuigan, Luke Gunnell and pocket rocket Mick Nolan.
For Bungaree, defenders Scott Mann and Charles Ried were outstanding down back, while midfielder Joel Mahar once again demonstrated his class.
Key forwards Luke Mirtschin and Steve Nicholson were outstanding for their respective teams, kicking five goals apiece.