Friday’s two remaining Grand Finals, the William Buck Premier Men’s and Premier Men’s Reserves brings to a close the 2024 season. Before releasing the 2024 fixture on 1st November last year, the VAFA identified and researched the opportunity to showcase these two feature games on Melbourne’s public holiday in advance of the AFL grand final.
I acknowledge we are breaking new ground with this initiative. It will be the only community games of football in Melbourne for the day and, being a public holiday, we are hoping it will attract heightened interest. Let’s hope the crowds come to Elsternwick Park and enjoy the games, the weather looks to be on our side in this respect.
It’s exciting to see the two teams play off in the senior game, with Old Brighton and Old Scotch seeking to win the coveted premiership. It’s been a while since either have played in the Prem A Grand Final, a win to Old Brighton will be a first, whereas for Old Scotch their last Prem A grand final victory was back in 1978.
In 2024 our 68 clubs fielded a combined 323 teams. This resulted in 2,763 games including the finals. The season commenced on Saturday 6 April and concludes Friday 27 September, running a combined 175 days, add to that the club preseasons and that is a lot of football. Games were officiated by our 560 umpires and as we know our competition spans the whole of Melbourne, across 23 LGA’s.
Paul NewtonVAFA President
across metropolitan Melbourne and like the clubs this represents a lot of travel for the umpires. They do a great job often in trying circumstances; our unique game is recognized as difficult to officiate, and we thank them for their tireless efforts.
The Board was thrilled to include Representative Football as part of the 2024 season. We took teams to Perth and hosted the Bendigo FNL at Elsternwick Park as well as showcasing our Holmesglen U19 talent. Rep football is part of the VAFA culture and history, fostering lifelong friendships. 2025 will mark 100 years of Big V football and we will again have the pride of the Big V on display.
Football is a contact sport, and injuries are unfortunately inevitable, we were reminded of this with the very serious injury to St Kevin’s player Michael Pisker midseason. An unfortunate collision resulted in Michael sustaining a traumatic head injury. Michael is making good progress and we wish him the best on his road to recovery. I am amazed by the generous support of the extended VAFA community, it speaks volumes of what the VAFA is all about, not to mention the immediate care exhibited by SKOB’s President Patrick Mount and his St Kevin’s community.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all premiership teams
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all premiership teams, in particular the players, coaches and support staff, as mentioned above, the season has been long and has presented challenges, however that’s what makes winning a premiership all the more special. Furthermore, congratulations to the various award winners.
Our competition is unique for several reasons, apart from being played under amateur rules we adopt 2 team promotionrelegation. This often keeps the competitions alive until the final round as there can still be a lot to play for in avoiding the “drop”. You only have to look at Caulfield Grammarians senior men, they remain in Premier B by a slender % differential after winning their final game in emphatic style against the higher placed Old Camberwell to stay up.
A lot is asked of our Umpires, and I take this opportunity to thank them for their commitment and service, as stated we play games
The Board is indebted to the VAFA administration, capably led by our CEO Jason Reddick. I have witnessed first-hand the many hours Jason and his team put in to ensure the competition meets club expectation in line with our rules and integrity. I am proud of this team and take this opportunity to acknowledge their professionalism and commitment.
In closing, thank you all for your commitment to the VAFA, I hope 2024 has delivered memories that you will treasure and has provided a source of enjoyment during Melbourne’s winter. Best of luck to the teams competing this Friday and I hope to see many of you at the VAFA Awards Night on Wednesday 9 October at the San Remo Ballroom. We will celebrate the Best & Fairest recipients as well as a host of other medals to be awarded. For the first time, the VAFA will be presenting Premiership Flags at the Awards Night and encourage all premiership players, coaches, and volunteers to come along.
Tickets can be purchased online at : https://www.intix.com. au/event/vafa-awards-night-2024
THE OFFICIAL NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FINALS.
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S
William Buck Premier Men’s Grand Final Preview –
Old Brighton vs Old Scotch
It all comes down to this… History will be made when a team that’s never won a Premier Men’s flag faces a team that’s claimed just one in 90 years.
It’s a golden opportunity for Old Brighton or Old Scotch to get their hands on some long-overdue silverware.
Old Brighton has never lifted the cup in Premier Men’s, with their best finishes twice as runner-up in 2007 and 2022, when they fell 22 points of St Kevin’s in a low-scoring slog.
Now they’re back into the premiership decider for the second time in three years, seemingly better equipped to win it all.
Will 2024 be the year that Old Brighton slides their first Premier Men’s premiership cup into the cabinet at Brighton Beach Oval?
Old Scotch is chasing its tenth Premier Men’s title, but just its second since 1934. It has lost six of the seven A-Grade Grand Finals it has played in the last 90 years, leaving 1978 as its only triumph in nine decades.
They comprehensively defeated the Tonners the last time they met and will enter the decider full of confidence after two powerful finals wins over teams that have had their measure in modern times – Collegians and St Kevin’s.
Is 2024 the year that the Cardinals finally break their 46-year drought?
2024 MEETINGS
RD 6: OLD BRIGHTON 14.8 (92) d. OLD SCOTCH 10.6 (66) by 26pts at Brighton Beach Oval
The Tonners won the inside battle and controlled territory to boot the first 4 goals and open up a 21-point quarter-time lead.
The second term delivered more of the same, the ladderleaders kicking the only 3 goals of the quarter to hold a commanding 37-point advantage at the major break – the second-placed Cardinals held to just one first-half goal.
Old Scotch added 3 goals in the third term, but the home side added 4 of their own, heading into the final quarter with a 46-point lead.
Old Scotch brought some respectability to the scoreboard with 6 goals to 3, but the damage was done - the Tonners 6-and-0 with a statement win, while the Cardinals slid from second to fourth.
RD 14: OLD SCOTCH 16.9 (105) d. OLD BRIGHTON 11.14 (80) by 25pts at Camberwell
Old Scotch confirmed their premiership credentials by powering away to an imposing win over pace-setters Old Brighton at Camberwell Sportsground.
It was another slow start for the Cardinals, who conceded 6 opening quarter goals to trail by 20 points at the first change. However, they responded with a 5-goal second term to get back within 3 points at the half despite losing spearhead James Tarrant to a hamstring injury.
The Cards continued to press in the third, finding multiple avenues to goal to boot 4 to 2 and lead by a kick at the final change of a highly entertaining contest.
They seized control with the first 3 goals of the final term to ultimately post an eye-catching 25-point victory.
KEY ABSENCES
HARRY HILL – The inspirational Old Brighton captain is also their most important player but will be missing due to concussion. He has been their midfield prime mover all season, leading the Tonners in disposals, clearances, tackles and Inside 50s when he went down in the final round.
The midfield still functioned superbly without him in the Second Semi – a testament to their depth, and maybe the less predictable mix with others grabbing some midfield minutes might ultimately hold them in good stead. Big shoes to fill though, given his innate ability to step up and seize the big moments.
AIDEN FRANETIC – The Cardinals also suffered a significant blow to their midfield mix when the dynamic Franetic limped off during the third quarter of the Preliminary Final with a hamstring injury.
He had been the most influential mid on the ground, racking up 24 disposals, 9 clearances and 9 Inside 50s but the upside for Old Scotch is that other midfielders stepped up to cover his absence, which they will have to do again in the Grand Final, given Franetic is ranked #1 Clearances & Inside 50s and #2 Tackles.
STYLES MAKE FIGHTS
OLD BRIGHTON’s biggest strength may be its balance of talent and experience across every line. Their depth is a weapon, because just when you have one gun covered, another pops up to do some damage.
The Tonners pride themselves on their contested game. Ranked #1 for Ground Ball Gets, #2 Tackles & Contested Possessions, #3 Clearances, they set up games via winning the ball at the source.
While the Tonners will be without their #1 Clearance player, Harry Hill, the Cards will be without their Top 2 Clearance players, Aiden Franetic and Isaac Conway. Old Brighton will fancy their chances of controlling the game from the inside, denying Old Scotch the chance to stretch them on the spread.
The Tonners are also clinical with their ball use (fewest Turnovers) and brutal at punishing opposition errors by taking their chances (#1 Score Efficiency).
THE CARDINALS MUST:
• Try to at least break even inside the contest & at worst, close the exits.
• Hunt the Tonners & force them into error (Old Scotch LAST for Pressure Acts).
• Take their chances around goal – inaccuracy has plagued them at times this season.
OLD SCOTCH is the #1 Disposal team in the competition and are deadly when allowed to string together uncontested possession chains. They use the ball well, making it difficult to win back off them when they’re out & running. They love the open expanses of Elsternwick Park.
They are also the #1 Contested Marking team in the league, so are happy to kick to contests if pressured, knowing that big men James Tarrant, Ryan Valentine & Will Clark are strong in the air. Few defences can handle that tall trio, who have combined for 79 goals between them.
The Cards also boast a strong Intercept game with Charlie Cormack & Doug Lawrence happy to hoover up any long bombs into the opposition’s front half. Cormack is their prime rebounder with almost double any other Cardinal & can instantly turn defence into attack.
THE TONNERS MUST:
• Close down the exits to prevent the Cardinals’ spread at ground level.
• Compete tirelessly in the air to negate Old Scotch’s marking power.
• Negate Charlie Cormack’s influence in the back half.
LEAD-IN FORM
• OLD BRIGHTON - WON 10 of LAST 11
• OLD SCOTCH - WON 11 of LAST 13
PREDICTIONS
PADDY GRINDLAY –OLD SCOTCH by 12pts
Jock Nelson Medal: James TARRANT
JOEY PIGNATARO –OLD SCOTCH by 19pts
Jock Nelson Medal: Charlie CORMACK
JASON BENNETT –OLD BRIGHTON by 1pt
Jock Nelson Medal: Nick PAVLOU
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S GRAND FINAL:
FRIDAY 2.30pm (Elsternwick Park) – live coverage from 1.30pm
LIVE STREAM – VAFA.com.au & KOMMUNITY TV
RADIO COVERAGE - SEN app, SEN.com.au & VAFA.com.au
TALE OF THE TAPE
GRAND FINAL CLUB REVIEW - OLD BRIGHTON
PREMIER DATA STAT LEADERS
DISPOSALS: Harry Hill425
Nick Pavlou412
Tom Fisher384
Luca Macnab377
Alfie Jarnestrom 342
CLEARANCES: Harry Hill116
Nick Pavlou109
Tom Fisher98
Sam Flockart88
Hamish Dick73
TACKLES: Harry Hill135
Tom Fisher125
Sam Flockart110
Tom Burnell87
Nick Pavlou75
REBOUND 50s: Campbell Tweedie91
Luca Macnab76
Tom Yorgey53
Kai Dimattina36
Alfie Jarnestrom 33
INTERCEPT MARKS: Campbell Tweedie56
Quintin Montanaro30
Darcy Gilbert27
Sam Flockart27
Max Benier26
MARKS: Campbell Tweedie113
Tom Yorgey81
Finn Campigli80
Alfie Jarnestrom 76
Old Brighton first entered the VAFA as Old Brightonians in the 1920s and 30s before returning to the Ammos in their current form in 1957.
They began in F-Section (Division 2 these days), and their first senior premiership came 20 years later when they claimed the 1977 Division 1 title.
The core of that group went on to win the 1980 Premier C flag 3 years later, which saw them elevated to Premier B.
It would take the Tonners 17 years to win the Premier B crown in 1997. A stint in A-Grade saw them make the 2007 Grand Final before returning to Premier B and winning the 2013 flag six years later.
They slid back to Premier B for three years, claimed a third premiership in 2017, and have been in the top tier ever since.
In 2024, they finished as minor premiers, an incredible 3.5 games clear of St Kevin’s, who they defeated in a 6-point Second SemiFinal thriller to progress straight through to their second William Buck Premier Men’s Grand Final in three years.
Old Scotch has been a VAFA stalwart since 1921 and, except for the 6 years of World War II, has competed continuously ever since.
Their 35 straight years in the top flight until the end of 2015 remain the longest continuous stint of any club in VAFA history, and they have never slipped further than B-Grade.
They are chasing an impressive tenth A-Grade flag in 2024. However, 8 of their previous 9 came in a remarkable 12-year period of dominance from 1923 to 1934.
But they’ve won just one in 90 years since that golden era.
The Cards faithful had to wait 44 years for their ninth flag in 1978 and have so far waited another 46 years to try and capture their tenth. They’ve played in 7 A-Grade Finals in those 9 decades, for 6 losses and the 1978 success.
2024 has already been a stunningly successful season for Old Scotch, making the Seniors & Reserves Grand Finals in both the Premier Men’s and Premier Women’s competition – an incredible achievement.
Their women won the flag last weekend with a brilliant performance that ended St Kevin’s run of 3 straight flags. Can their men also hoist the cup and finally return to the top of the VAFA mountain?
PREMIER DATA STAT LEADERS
DISPOSALS: Ben Hays472
Charlie Cormack419 Will Townsend368
Jack Lipscombe360
Aidan Franetic357
CLEARANCES: Aidan Franetic125
Isaac Conway91
Andy Jelbart74 Will Clark74
Henry Brown57
TACKLES: Andy Jelbart83
Aidan Franetic73
Angus Symons68
Isaac Conway68
Henry Brown57
REBOUND 50s: Charlie Cormack105
Jack Brown55
Ben Hays47
Will Townsend45
Alex Noblet41
INTERCEPT MARKS: Charlie Cormack39
Jack Brown36
Doug Lawrence34
James Tarrant26 Will Townsend23
MARKS: Ben Hays149 Will Townsend114
Jack Lipscombe101
Brodie Easton90
James Tarrant89
INSIDE 50s: Aidan Franetic77
Ben Hays74
Jack Lipscombe50
James Tarrant46
Angus Symons68
MARKS I50: Ryan Valentine38 Will Clark23
James Tarrant21
Mackenzie Allen14
Harry Scott71
GOALKICKERS: Ryan Valentine32 Will Clark26
James Tarrant21
Angus Symons20
Mackenzie Allen13
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S
OLD BRIGHTON
Senior Coach: Marcel Bruin
Assistant Coach: Luke Daffy
Other Coaches: Josh Homann, Travis O’Donohue
No.NameGB
1Thomas Burnell
2Jordan Segar
3Tom Yorgey
4Harry Hill (c)
5Campbell Tweedie
6Thomas Fisher (vc)
7Lachlan Filipovic
13Finn Campigli
15Kai Dimattina
16Hamish Dick
18Sam Collins
19Jonah Campigli
22Max Lohan
23Michael Karayannis
24Ben Pryor
28Elliot Avis
29Fraser Gregson
34Sam Flockart
41Luca Macnab
43Nicholas Pavlou
48Jamie Hope
60Maxwell Benier
64William Lewis
77Alfred Jarnstrom
88Quintin Montanaro 1st
OLD SCOTCH
Senior Coach: Mark Gnatt
Assistant Coach: Andrew Millar
Other Coaches: Darren Flanigan
No.NameGB
1Andrew Jelbart (Captain)
2Henry Brown
4Ben Hays
6Angus Symons
7Jack Lipscombe
9Jack Polkinghorne
10Jack Brown
12James Tarrant
13Matt Bennett
14Rhys Galvin
15Will Townsend
18Harry Scott
22Doug Lawrence
23Cooper Lean
24Charlie Cormack
30Charlie Jackson
31Lachie Dennis
35Harry Stubbings
36Ryan Valentine
39Sam Grant
44Will Clark
45Ben Thomson
52Lachie Johnson
56Alex Noblet
59Ollie Badr
63Robbie Beckworth
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER RESERVE
7 Jack Hewitt
Fraser Pearce
William Egan
OLD XAVERIANS
Senior Coach: Dimitri Panotis
Assistant Coach: John Symeopoulos
Charlie Whitehead 25 Ben Moyle
Billy Kennedy
Jack Whitehead
Will Goss 37 Joseph Tobin 38 Charlie Knott
Ben Scala
Harrison Bell
Angus Sheedy
OLD SCOTCH
Senior Coach: Rhett Wilsmore Assistant Coach:
Michael Tassiopoulos 63 Robbie Beckworth
Will Easton
Charlie Hocking
Alex Davies 67 Hugh Byrne-Jones
Lachie Harker
Matthew Muller
Dwayne Darcy 74 Sam Skinner 75 Angus Halse
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER
Cardinals end SKOB’s golden Grand Final run & will face the Tonners in the Big One
And then there were two…
Old Scotch ended St Kevin’s incredible run of five consecutive Premier Men’s Grand Finals, leading from start to finish in an impressive Preliminary Final performance at Elsternwick Park.
PRELIMINARY FINAL IN REVIEW: ST KEVIN’S vs OLD SCOTCH
The Cardinals jumped out of the blocks and settled into the game with 3 goals in the opening 10 minutes as Ryan Valentine, Angus Symons & Cooper Lean all hit the scoresheet with an early major – Symons and Aidan Frenetic were directly involved in all three to immediately send SKOB onto the back foot.
Frenetic would open with an impressive 11 disposals and 3 Goal Assists in the first term, but last season’s runners-up didn’t panic and started creating opportunities of their own.
In fact, they dominated possession (+29 for the quarter) and Inside 50s (16-7), winning it on the inside and retaining it through uncontested chains to post the final 5 scores of the first quarter and negate the early damage as they drew back within 3 points.
QTR TIME: St Kevin’s 2.3 (15) Old Scotch 3.0 (18)
The second quarter showcased the defensive resilience of both teams, with a combined 20 Inside 50s yielding just 3 goals as both sides dug in for the long haul.
Cooper Lean booted his second goal at the 3-minute mark to re-establish some breathing room for the Cardinals before Ollie Gill kicked a beauty for SKOB 8 minutes later.
It was tight and tough contested footy with big Will Clark once again establishing a little buffer for the Cards with his first goal at the 21-minute mark.
And while Old Scotch would head to the major break with a 9-point lead, territory dominance belonged to SKOB, who had racked up a whopping 30 Inside 50s to 13 in the opening half.
With spearhead Patty Kerr held to just 4 touches, the big question became – could St Kevin’s find a way to crack the Cardinals’ defence in the second half? They had generated one extra scoring shot but trailed the relatively accurate Cards by 9 points.
HALF TIME: St Kevin’s 3.5 (23) Old Scotch 5.2 (32)
Just as they’d done in the opening term, the Cardinals seized the early initiative in the third, having the better of the first 10-12 minutes.
Skipper Andy Jelbart extended the margin to a dangerous 15 points with his goal in the opening minute as his team started breaking even in and around the contest. This allowed the Cards to balance up the territory battle and start turning most of the major stat categories for the first time all day.
Enter Tom Jok. He launched a long-range bomb at the 16-minute mark that brought the margin back to just 7 points and ignited the St Kevin’s faithful. Suddenly it felt like their team was back in the game.
And when Callum Jones added another goal for SKOB, the margin had shrunk to a single point entering time-on in the third term.
Suddenly it was incumbent on Old Scotch to stabilise the situation and the prolific Ben Hays stepped up and seized his moment 2 minutes to ensure the Cards would retain the lead they’d held all day.
But when Cardinal midfielder Aiden Franetic - who had racked up 24 disposals, 9 clearances and 9 Inside 50s to that point –limped off with a hamstring injury, it felt like SKOB were right in the contest and well capable of finishing strongly enough to secure another Grand Final berth.
With just one goal separating the teams, were we in for a Preliminary Final thriller?
3-QUARTER TIME: St Kevin’s 5.9 (39) Old Scotch 7.3 (45)
The game sat on a knife-edge for the first 7 minutes without a goal in the final term before Angus Symons bobbed up to kick his second and steel the Cardinals who now sat on a 12-point lead, and when Cooper Lean added another 2 minutes later the margin extended to 19 points which, given the tightness of the game all afternoon, suddenly felt like a significantly larger gap.
The script from earlier in the game had virtually flipped, with Old Scotch now dominating on the inside and gaining territory based on that control. The Cards finally got their damaging uncontested possession chains going and when Lean booted his 4th goal at the 16-minute mark, the 27-point advantage started to feel like a bridge too far for SKOB.
But credit to Anthony Lynch’s men, who fought on and responded with a goal to Jack Darmody at the 22-minute mark to hang in at 21 points with time to play, but when Will Clark set up Jack Polkinghorne to run into an open goal at the 25-minute mark, it was all over.
Clark was unstoppable as he took control Inside 50 and became the difference maker and VAFA Media commentator Joey Pignataro was full of praise for the big man.
“Where there’s a will there’s a way and Will Clark inspired them to victory in that final quarter. Not only did he kick two himself, he was part of 3 others, 2 of them directly to Cooper Lean.”
Ryan Valentine added another in what turned out to be an explosive 7-goal final term from the Cardinals that blew the final margin out to a comprehensive 44 points in a contest that had been much closer than that all afternoon.
FINAL SCORE: Old Scotch 14.7 (91) d. St Kevin’s 6.11 (47)
So back-to-back 44-point finals wins for Old Scotch, who will head into Friday’s Grand Final against Old Brighton full of confidence and belief, albeit potentially without dynamic midfielder Aidan Franetic.
But given the Tonners will be without prime-mover Harry Hill, those two absences would virtually cancel each other out.
Jubilation for Old Scotch, into their first top-flight Grand Final since 1998 and just one win away from their first top-flight premiership since 1978. What a Grand Final it promises to be!
Full credit to St Kevin’s, who gave it everything but will watch the Grand Final from the sidelines for the first time since 2016.
“St Kevin’s stayed with Scotch for three quarters but ran out of steam and were outmuscled by the Cardinals late. But the SKOB era definitely isn’t over,” said Pignataro.
“They were one kick away from being in the Grand Final a week ago and they’ve had adversity off the back of last year’s Grand Final belting.
“Plugger (Anthony Lynch’s) biggest supporter – his Mum –passed away at the start of the year. Then the Michael Pisker injury rattled the whole club, putting footy as far less of a priority. They also had injuries to key players at different points of the year.
“But they have a model for sustained success like Xavs of the late ‘90s and early 2000s.”
He was full of praise for the Cardinals.
“Yet again the defensive profile stands up in finals. Charlie Cormack marked everything in his area across half back. He was our SKINS Player of the Game.
“They have such a strong balance between defence and attack, they are skilful by foot and prepared to change lanes to attack.
Mark Gnatt (Old Scotch): “It was a great game of footy - a tough battle and neither side gave an inch.
“We got off to a great start with 3 goals in the first 10 minutes or so and then SKOB fought back and took control around the stoppages.
“However, our backs stood up brilliantly and repelled a number of inside 50s from SKOB.
“We have confidence in our ability to run out games and this proved pivotal in the final quarter.
“We have enormous respect for St Kevin’s - full credit to Plugger and his boys on yet another successful season albeit under adversity.”
Anthony Lynch (St Kevin’s): “We are obviously very disappointed not to be going on into a sixth consecutive Grand Final.
“We gave ourselves opportunities in both finals games to win, but ultimately, both Scotch and Brighton took theirs, and we didn’t and that’s finals footy.
“I think the two form teams have deservedly made the grand final and I wish them both well.
“Culturally, I couldn’t be more proud of the players and club as a whole. We have had some real challenges through the year, but we have been totally united and come together to support each other through that and those bonds will allow us to do great things in the future.”
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S GRAND FINAL: FRIDAY 2.30pm (Elsternwick Park) – live coverage from 1.30pm
LIVE STREAM – KOMMUNITY TV & VAFA.com.au
RADIO COVERAGE - SEN app, SEN.com.au & VAFA.com.au
PRELIMINARY FINAL RESULTS
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S St Kevins:
GOALS: St Kevins: O. Gill 2, J. Darmody 1, T. Jok 1, A. Hart 1, C. Jones 1
GOALS: Old Scotch: C. Lean 4, W. Clark 3, A. Symons 2, R. Valentine 2, J. Polkinghorne 1, B. Hays 1, A. Jelbart 1
BEST: St Kevins: W. Coates, S. Critchley, C. Hodges, L. Walters, C. Jones, L. Gunson
BEST: Old Scotch: C. Cormack, J. Brown, C. Lean, L. Dennis, S. Grant, H. Brown
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S RESERVE
Kevins:
GOALS: St Kevins: E. Mahoney 2, B. Bryan 2, L. Mazzeo 2, V. Stevancevic 1, W. Pearce 1, T. Williams 1
GOALS: Old Scotch: F. Morrisby 4, L. Johnson 2, A. Jones 1, H. Robenstone 1, R. Beckworth 1, M. Muller 1, M. Vacirca 1
(60)
(75)
BEST: St Kevins: J. Byrne, E. Mahoney, L. Mahoney, L. Mazzeo, B. Bryan, C. Woolrich
BEST: Old Scotch: R. Beckworth, F. Morrisby, L. Johnson, R. Walsh, M. Muller, C. Schilling
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S
Lauren Atkinson
Stars align for Old Scotch in Premiership glory
Old Scotch have claimed bragging rights for 2024 after ending St Kevin’s Premiership dominance over the past three years. The Stars recorded a defiant 32-point victory over the Saints to claim their first women’s Premiership at the top level.
St Kevin’s had long been considered the benchmark of women’s football – minor premiers in the inaugural season of the VAFA Premier Women’s competition, finalists the following year, and Premiers for the past three consecutive Grand Finals. They are a side who continued to outclass the rest of the competition year after year, coming into this year’s Grand Final pushing for a fourth consecutive premiership.
On the other hand, Old Scotch only started their women’s program in 2018 but quickly shot up the ranks, tasting premiership glory along the way as they worked their way into the top division where they now had the chance to make history with their first William Buck Premier Women’s flag.
The scene was set for an epic Grand Final, with two formidable teams fighting it out for one premiership cup at the home of VAFA football, Elsternwick Park.
In the 2024 home and away season, Old Scotch and St Kevin’s only loss came at the hands of each other, and in their third clash this year it was the SKOB Saints who took home the chocolates in the Semi Final.
The standard of the two sides was evident from the first bounce, with both teams exhibiting strength and skill above that of the rest of the competition. Old Scotch brought a level of pressure that they had not shown so far this year, as they refused to allow St Kevin’s control of the Sherrin while providing themselves ample opportunity as they continued to win the clearance battle.
Jordan Mifsud was electric, with the football seemingly drawn to her as she kicked three first term goals utilising various avenues to set the tone for Old Scotch.
Despite working their way back into the contest late in the quarter, St Kevin’s only sniff at goal was a shot from Tess Cattle that was touched on the line by Old Scotch’s brick wall, Bella Gray.
Old Scotch continued to build momentum in the second, with Mietta Kendall getting them off to another hot start, as they capitalised on a ball that got out the back.
Although St Kevin’s managed to lock the ball in their attacking half for a long stretch, they failed to hit the scoreboard, before Old Scotch got the game back on their terms once again.
Two goals to the competition’s leading goalkicker, Eloise Defina, pushed the margin out to 37 points, leaving St Kevin’s with a mountain to climb.
If there is a team that could engineer such a comeback, it would be St Kevin’s, who showed their ability to turn a game on its head back in the qualifying final against Old Scotch. With that turnaround still fresh in the memory, there was a feeling around the grounds that it was only a matter of time before St Kevin’s would shift gears and make an impact on the scoreboard.
19 minutes into the second quarter, St Kevin’s finally got their first major of the day when Kate Stanton snapped truly from the boundary line to give her side the lift they so desperately needed.
Shortly after, Sarah Cameron converted her first shot at goal for the day and there was a palpable shift in momentum as the Stars suddenly founded themselves under siege.
Luckily for Old Scotch, they were granted a reprieve when the siren sounded for half time moments later, putting a halt to St Kevin’s charge.
As was the theme all day, Old Scotch started the third term with a greater level of intensity than St Kevin’s, winning the first clearance and launching the ball inside their forward line, where Maggie Wilson was waiting to pounce.
Kate Stanton once again attempted to lift her team, attacking the ball with an unmatched ferocity. Displaying serious x-factor, Stanton kicked two goals in a minute to bring St Kevin’s back within three goals.
Inspired by their teammate, the Saints took things up a notch, locking the ball in their forward half, however, the Scotch defenders withstood the barrage, not allowing any additional scores.
A late goal to Sara Fortunato took the wind out St Kevin’s sails, as the Saints players appealed that it had been touched to no avail.
With one quarter left to play, St Kevin’s trailed by a hefty 25 points, meaning a miracle final term would be required if the Saints were to continue their premiership reign.
Who else to deliver the coup de grace but Jordan Mifsud, who had been causing headaches for St Kevin’s all day. Rewarded after laying a strong tackle, Mifsud slotted the first goal of the fourth quarter, making a Saints comeback feel near impossible.
The Saints were quick to respond through Sarah Cameron, leaving the door slightly ajar, however, it would turn out to be their last goal of the day.
Old Scotch were able to wind down the clock, until Jade Wise joined the list of goal scorers at the 20-minute mark, putting the icing on the cake for the Stars.
As the final siren sounded, the scoreboard read 5.2 (32) to 10.4 (64). Unbelievable scenes of jubilation swept through the Old Scotch faithful as they celebrated their first premiership in the William Buck Premier Women’s competition.
Jordan Mifsud was awarded the Michael Sholly Best on Ground medal for her influential role in the victory, leading from the start with strength and determination, highlighted by her first quarter efforts that ultimately set Old Scotch up for the day.
While every Star contributed throughout the day, there were some that deserved extra recognition from their coach.
Through the midfield, Ella Crump did a brilliant job at nullifying the strength of the Big V ruck, Sarah Betts, while Mia Caffry was a contested bull, winning clearance after clearance to provide opportunities for her side. In defence, Bella Gray and Katie Hunter-Scott were resolute, keeping the usually lively St Kevin’s forwards at bay.
One factor that was consistent across the whole Old Scotch line up was their pressure and belief.
“I was so proud of our teams contested footy,” Old Scotch coach Dean Anderson said.
“Our pressure and tackling was at our best. Our midfield clearance work went to plan, and our structure up forward put the kind of pressure on St Kevin’s defence that we were hoping for.”
It was clear that the win meant even more due to the high standard of the opposition, who have built a dynasty over the last five years.
Anderson said, “The competition has been in awe of St Kevin’s for a long time and the work we put in to trying to bridge the gap was enormous. We needed to instil the belief within our group that we could not only match them but beat them.”
“That was one of the hardest games I’ve coached. St Kevin’s are just so good, and we knew that they would keep coming all day. They are a sensational team with some absolute talent that can really lift them, and we saw glimpses of that.”
We certainly saw St Kevin’s talent showcased throughout the final, with Kate Stanton leading the way as she gave all she had to try to propel her side to a comeback. Annabelle Embelton, Emily Condon and Lauren Suleiman were all enormous in defence, minimising the scoreboard damage from Old Scotch, while Sarah Betts and Jessica Joyce fought valiantly all day through the midfield.
With another season complete, one thing is for sure – Old Scotch and St Kevin’s are sure to be ‘the hunted’ in 2025.
GRAND FINAL RESULTS
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S
Kevins:
(32) Old Scotch:
GOALS: St Kevins: K. Stanton 3, S. Cameron 2
(64)
GOALS: Old Scotch: J. Mifsud 4, E. Defina 2, M. Wilson 1, J. Wise 1, S. Fortunato 1, M. Kendall 1
BEST: St Kevins: K. Stanton, A. Embelton, E. Condon, S. Betts, J. Joyce, L. Suleiman
BEST: Old Scotch: J. Mifsud, B. Gray, M. Caffry, M. Wilson, K. Hunter-Scott, E. Crump
WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER WOMEN’S RESERVE
Collegians:
GOALS: Collegians: J. Stolz 2, B. Tuszynski 2, B. Rees 2, A. Henderson 2, K. Dudley 2, G. Lambley 1, C. Mcdermott 1, C. Pritchard 1, A. Kamberis 1
GOALS: Old Scotch: L. Morley 1
BEST: Collegians: BEST: Old Scotch: G. Johnson, I. Tuttle, G. Kerr, Z. Fodor, N. Griffiths, A. Stubbings
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PREMIER B MEN’S
Paddy Grindlay
Bloods crowned Premiers in Grand Final romp
“It was awesome, mate.” Daniel Ward puts it simply.
Old Haileybury’s masterful 2024 season concluded with its third-largest winning margin of the year, and the largest winning margin in a Premier B Grand Final since the Blood’s 1990 triumph over Old Melburnians.
An emphatic 19.15 (129) to 5.5 (35) belting of De La Salle at Trevor Barker Beach Oval has secured the club its second senior flag in three years and fired a shot across the bow of many a William Buck Premier side for season 2025.
Facing De La for the fourth time of the season and second time of the Finals Series, the Bloods saved their best for last, erring only in their execution in front of goal in the first term in one of the most complete performances ever seen in the competition - and in the wider Association this year.
Rare talent Andreas Stefankais, who has wowed the VAFA in his ten games at the Bloods while impressing in his time at Box Hill, was awarded the Ian Cordner medal as the player adjudged best on field with five goals from his 14 disposals.
Still yet to celebrate his 20th birthday, Stefanakis will be one to keep a keen eye on next season, when the Bloods will return to William Buck Premier with an almighty spring in their step after a 2023 season where they were desperately unlucky to be relegated.
“The way that they’re playing at the moment - the two finals games they played against us, they’ve been really, really strong,” said De La Salle coach Nick Hyland.
“I walked away from (Sunday) thinking ‘that’s the best game of footy I’ve seen a Premier B team play all year’.”
There were signs early in the piece that it would be the Bloods’ day - uncharacteristic De La fumbles and turnovers giving rise to the intense pressure applied by the Bloods’ midfielders and forwards - the likes of Charlie Sinclair and Charlie Harrop feasting across half forward.
Seven of the eight scoring shots registered by the Old Haileyburians in the first term would come directly from De La turnovers - but luckily for Hyland’s men the Bloods converted just two of those shots into goals, leading 2.6 (18) to 0.2 (2) at the first break.
“The game was looking the way we wanted it to look, the only missing piece was putting the score on the board,” Ward said, emphasising the need for a high level of energy and pressure around the ground at the first break.
“We didn’t really take our chances in the first quarter; we dominated territory a little bit.”
The message stuck. The Bloods scored 6.3 (39) in the second term - each score coming from turnover. Despite holding their own around stoppage - indeed, De La would take a +7-clearance differential into half time and a slim advantage in the contested possessions count - Hyland’s men had committed 50 turnovers already, with only one goal to their name through Ryan O’Meara.
An eight-goal lead in place at half time, the Bloods only needed to shore up their position in the third term to all but secure victory - and did so, kicking four goals to one to put paid to the Grand Final with one quarter remaining.
Coach Ward has noted frequently this season a focus at Haileybury on timing their run, peaking at the right timean approach that began from the pre-season.
Two losses to start their 2024 Premier B campaign wasn’t exactly the ideal start, but since then the Bloods’ form has been imperious: 14 wins, one loss and one draw from Round 3 until the Grand Final last Sunday.
And with a full complement of stars raring to go - dynamic goalsneak Stefanakis, swingman Durras Seccull, midfield beast and 2022 Ian Cordner medallist Brede Seccull, and ball magnet Josh Gasparini just a few names that leap from the team sheet - the Bloods were always going to be difficult to tip against.
“I’ve spoken about it a lot, I was quite nervous, quite anxious, when everything’s gone so smoothly - your team’s fit and firing, not too many injury issues,” Ward said.
Harry Jones (four goals), Harrop (21 disposals, three goals), James Magner (21 disposals, three goals), Gasparini (38 disposals, eight clearances) and Durras Seccull (13 kicks from 12 intercepts) were all superb, but special mention must go to Charlie Sinclair.
The half forward feasted on De La’s unassuredness across half back, racking up 30 disposals, 11 inside 50s, 13 score involvements and a remarkable five goal assists in what was surely his finest performance of the year.
“I’ve stated to several people, I thought Charlie Sinclair was our best player,” said Ward
“He’s probably the best pressure small forward in the comp…he worked his backside off.”
Ward will head back to William Buck Premier with lessons learned from a six-win 2023 season safe in the knowledge his group is well prepared for the challenge,
“I’ve learnt a few things around game style - everyone says it, there’s no easy game in A Grade,” he said.
“They’re the small things - we’ve learnt a lot, that was our first experience in A grade for 12 years. I’m looking forward to it, the group’s really looking forward to it, they’re hungry, they’re eager.”
Speaking on the phone on Monday afternoon, Ward’s participation in the premiership afterglow had concluded somewhat - but the same couldn’t necessarily be said about the playing group.
“The personal relationships I have with some of those boys…I was just rapt. We had a great night last night; the boys are still going at the moment.”
The questions will come for Nick Hyland and De La Salle on whether there was simply not enough left in the tank after a remarkable and emotional preliminary final win over Old Trinity - but the coach of the William Buck Premier-bound Dees refuses to use the game as an excuse.
“Did it take a lot of effort and physical exertion to win last weekend? Absolutely. Did it take its toll during the week? Yes. Is it an excuse? Absolutely not.”
The disappointment in losing the Grand Final will be tempered by the club’s return to top flight after a five-year hiatus following relegation in 2019 - Hyland has already viewed the game back and found plenty of lessons to come from the defeat.
“I encouraged them, and however long this will be, once they process the whole year in totality, I think they’ll come to realise this was a successful year.”
“It’s not an easy feat to get promoted and get back to A Grade.”
With the trophy engraved for 2024, the focus for both Old Haileybury and De La Salle will turn to remaining in William Buck Premier beyond 2025. The last time both promoted sides stayed in William Buck Premier for two seasons, or more was in 2021, where both Caulfield Grammarians and Old Scotch held onto their top flight places for 2022, albeit after a shortened 2021 season followed the abandonment of the 2020 season entirely.
“History would say it’s going to be a challenge (to stay up). But we’re in this position, we’ve given ourselves an opportunity to attack it full-on,” Hyland said.
“This is our ambition, to be a successful, sustainable A-grade club”.
GRAND FINAL RESULTS
PREMIER B MEN’S
Old Haileybury: 2.6
GOALS: Old Haileybury: A. Stefanakis 5, h. jones 4, C. Harrop 3, J. Magner 3, L. Treverton 1, B. Steele 1, B. Seccull 1, H. Nosiara 1
GOALS: De La Salle: R. O’Meara 2, C. Algeri 1, A. Indovino 1, F. Cameron 1
BEST: Old Haileybury: C. Sinclair, J. Gasparini, C. Harrop, D. Seccull, C. Riley, h. jones
BEST: De La Salle: J. Williams, C. Aitken, L. Gawel, H. Nicholson, T. Shannon, F. Cameron
PREMIER B MEN’S RESERVE
Old Trinity:
De La Salle:
GOALS: Old Trinity: N. Adgemis 2, W. Macafee 1, T. de Graaff 1, M. Scott 1, E. Chard 1, L. Scobie 1, B. Smith 1
GOALS: De La Salle: P. Russell 1, T. Fogarty 1, H. Gustin 1, E. MacBeth 1, S. McNidder 1, B. Ahearn 1
BEST: Old Trinity: N. Adgemis, W. Macafee, L. Chiaramonte, H. Taylor, F. Robertson, F. Hall
BEST: De La Salle:
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PREMIER C MEN’S
Raj Johnston
Panthers thrash Rovers to be crowned kings of Premier C
The Premier C Grand Final saw Old Carey get the job done and in scintillating fashion no less, demolishing the Hampton Rovers by a massive 89 points in a one-sided affair.
On an overcast day at Trevor Barker Beach Oval, Old Carey skipper Zander Adam won the toss and elected to kick to the city end. And that decision paid off as the Panthers had a strong start with the first couple of goals of the game going their way, showing early signs of just how damaging their pressure and intensity could be throughout the afternoon. Old Carey star forward Riley Thompson was already looking dangerous and going to be someone that the Rovers needed to keep an eye on.
At quarter-time, Old Carey lead by 15 points; 3.3 (21) to 1.0 (6). Hampton coach Marty Pask cited at quarter time that his side needed to play with more dare and take risks to counter Old Carey’s fast style of play.
The Rovers indeed found some dare and took on the game more in the second quarter, benefiting with three goals added to the scoreboard, however, they simply could not stop the pace of Old Carey who found five majors in the second term. The Panthers composure and tactics paid off as their midfielders worked in good pace with their forwards to get the ball through the goals more often than not.
The main break at half-time saw Old Carey extend their lead to 29 points. There was still another half of footy to be played and a case could be mounted that the Rovers could plot a comeback and fix up their deficiencies, however it was clear that the Panthers were dangerous with ball in hand and were finding many ways to break through Hampton’s defence.
Old Carey proved why the third quarter is coined as the premiership quarter, rampaging with a further eight goals, much to the dismay of Hampton’s supporters who only saw their side kick one major this quarter. Old Carey’s pressure to the contest and ability to work seamlessly as a team continued to shine, using their speed to gain
possession and continually work the footy inside 50. The Panthers capitalised on every opportunity as Nick Brewin walked into an easy goal half-way through this quarter, swooping on a loose ball bombed inside 50, making the most of the circumstances with no Hampton defender in front of him inside the 50.
Three-quarter time came about, and the scoreboard read Old Carey 16.9 (105) to Hampton Rovers 5.4 (34). It was going to take a miracle for the Rovers to turn this result around and the feeling around the ground was that the Panthers had one hand on the premiership cup. Old Carey’s coach Aaron Bailey was pleased that his side’s efforts in defence were being rewarded and creating opportunities for his team.
The Panthers showed no signs of slowing down in the final term and continued to dominate the play. To the Rovers credit, they continued to fight until the final siren and showed dignity and class despite the scoreline, managing two goals in the fourth quarter, but unfortunately for them, nowhere near enough to chase down Old Carey. The Panthers kicked a number of behinds this quarter, but it did not matter given how far ahead they were as they continued to take the game on and play with speed. Riley Thompson continued to pile on the goals to finish the afternoon with an incredible seven goals. The siren sounded as Old Carey’s players and coaching staff began to celebrate on the ground as their excited supporters rushed onto the field to soak up every moment!
After the game, Aaron Bailey acknowledged how special this premiership is, being the club’s 70th year. “It’s a magnificent reward for our club and the people that put all the effort in behind the scenes. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet…it’s just brilliant.” Bailey singled out Isaac Ellwood for his efforts on the wing, and Bede Waters efforts to restrict star Hampton midfielder Christian Carnovale. “It was great that we played our best game when it mattered.”
This game brings an end to a successful season for the Hampton Rovers. To finish second in a very competitive top four was a significant achievement. William Crawford and Liam O’Driscoll were key up forward in the Grand Final with two goals each. Despite their losses in the Semi
and Grand Final, the Rovers will be thrilled with their strong finish to the season which saw them win twelve consecutive matches from Round 7 to Round 18.
Old Carey was ultimately the best side in it and very deserving of a premiership. Finishing on top of the ladder with a great percentage and a lot to play for ultimately worked in their favour. Riley Thompson and Trent Warren were both incredible assets to the side with 66 and 52 goals, respectively.
Another season of Premier C footy has been run and won with Old Carey proving they finished on top of the ladder for a reason, rightfully being crowned the kings of Premier C. Both Grand Final sides, Old Carey and the Hampton Rovers will be promoted up to Premier B in 2025, whilst Prahran and Parkside will be welcomed up from Division 1.
On the relegation side, the Monash Blues and Oakleigh will move down to Division 1, whilst Beaumaris and St Bedes/ Mentone Tigers join Premier C after finishing at the bottom of Premier B this year.
2024 saw the top four in Premier C remain relatively unchanged which left the other six teams scratching their heads unable to break into the top four. With new teams entering the mix next year, the stage is set for a fascinating Premier C battle in 2025.
GRAND FINAL RESULTS
C MEN’S
GOALS: Old Carey: R. Thompson 7, N. Brewin 2, B. Andrews 2, C. Connell-Tobin 1, T. Newton 1, T. Jepson 1, T. Borghouts 1, J. Alexander 1, J. Rule 1, M. Wooffindin 1, L. Godden 1, T. Warren 1
GOALS: Hampton Rovers: W. Crawford 2, L. O’Driscoll 2, h. garrow 1, A. Hug 1, M. Coughlin 1
BEST: Old Carey: R. Thompson, T. Jepson, B. Waters, L. Anderson, H. Hill, O. Dickson
BEST: Hampton Rovers: M. Van der Straaten, H. Lay, L. O’Driscoll, J. Delaney, A. Hug, J. Prosser
PREMIER C MEN’S RESERVES
GOALS: Parkdale Vultures: L. Marshall 2, L. Farnbach 2, H. Bean 2, L. Smith 1, L. Sargeant 1, B. Austin 1, L. Murie 1
GOALS: AJAX: L. Siegel 2, N. Spitz 2, J. Spicer 1
BEST: Parkdale Vultures: J. Day, B. Austin, J. Vorbach, L. Smith, J. Duckham, N. Farnbach
BEST: AJAX: J. Tonkin, J. Burston, J. Machlin, B. Mond, N. Spitz, B. Antman
PREMIER
THE OFFICIAL NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER OF THE VICTORIAN AMATEUR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FINALS.
VAFA x GFA Raffle
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Raffle closes on 15th October at 11:59pm (unless sold out prior)
FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
After the penultimate weekend of the VAFA Finals Series, another 9 Premiers have been crowned.
Congratulations to all teams who have won a Premiership and best of luck the three clubs featuring in Friday’s William Buck Premier Men’s Seniors and Reserves Grand Finals.
Premiers
William Buck Premier Women’s – Old Scotch
Premier Women’s Reserves – Collegians
Premier B Men’s – Old Haileybury
Premier B Men’s Reserves – Old Trinity
Premier C Men’s – Old Carey
Premier C Men’s Reserves – Parkdale Vultures
Division 3 Men’s – Canterbury
Division 3 Men’s Reserves – Richmond Central Holmesglen Under 19 Division 4 Men’s –Caulfield Grammarians
Visit the VAFA website to read more about the Grand Finals. P r e m i e r s Premiers ,
BEST OF FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
Brotherly love at Parkdale
It was a special day for the Parkdale Vultures in Round 13 when five different sets of brothers played in the Club’s Thirds! What could have been Family Feud turned out to be brotherly love as the Vultures posted an impressive 12-goal win over South Melbourne Districts.
19 goal haul for one of the JOCS
St John’s kicked 38 goals in their match against Eley Park in Round 4, 19 of which were kicked by new recruit Matthew Carnelley.
Carnelley went on to win the Div 3 Men’s leading goal kicker and kicked the second most goals of anyone in the entire VAFA competition for 2024.
VAFA launches new website
One of the milestones achieved in VAFA Media in 2024 was the launch of the new VAFA website. The brand-new VAFA.com.au is a completely new platform, built from the ground up, and represents a significant step forward in providing a superior online experience for the large VAFA community. n w VAFA a om ng he
Representative Football
The 2024 Rep Footy campaign was a huge success with the VAFA claiming 2 out of 3 possible cups in the Premier B-Division 3 Big V Men’s match against Bendigo FNL and the Big V Women’s team defeating Perth FL. The inaugural Holmesglen Under 19’s showcase was a highlight, providing opportunity for the VAFA’s young talent to play at the highest level. The Big V Men’s side fell short to Perth FL but will no doubt be searching for redemption on 2025 when the Big V faces off against the Adelaide FL.
Daisy Thomas joins Div 12 Ressies
Daisy Thomas pulled on the boots for the Wattle Park Animals against Oakleigh under lights at Scammell Reserve. The Thirds Division 3 South match drew a huge crowd with Daisy making his return after playing a one-off game in the VAFA last year. Daisy kicked 1 goal for the game and Wattle Park came away with the win.
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DIVISION 3 MEN’S
Callum Farquhar
King Cobras! Canterbury overcome scoring woes to prevail in Division 3 decider
Canterbury have been crowned premiers in Division 3 Men’s, after a scintillating match against St John’s hung in the balance for three and a half quarters.
As Canterbury approached their initial positions for the opening bounce, the message was clear.
“Keep it simple,” Canterbury coach Josh Ward said his instruction was. “Don’t be overawed by the day, execute the basics and get on with the game.”
Canterbury found multiple marks inside 50 early on, however a ferocious wind affected the distance of a couple shots at goal, whilst closer attempts went wayward. Ultimately, St John’s found the opening goal through Callum Houghton.
It was set to be a tough day up forward for the JOC’s. Missing competition-leading goalkicker Matthew Carnelley through suspension, as well as Michael Ashman - two players who have combined for 103 goals this season - St John’s forward line was depleted for the decider.
The JOC’s stayed in the hunt throughout the majority of the match however, crucially making the most of every opportunity they had.
Brad Kelleher, Canterbury’s liveliest forward for the day, kicked truly in the sixth minute of play to regain the lead after an overstepping-the-mark fifty meter penalty, whilst John Nicolopoulos lapped up the opportunity presented from a harsh rushed behind call.
A back-and-forth contest ensued after, as the Cobras continued to rue missed opportunities in front of goal – a key theme for the afternoon.
A late goal to Canterbury skipper James Boarotto and a behind after the siren levelled the scores at 30 apiece at quarter time – however it was five straight to the JOC’s, 4.6 to the Cobras.
With the breeze in their favour, the Cobras polished field kicking began to catch the JOC’s off-guard. End-toend transitions that could’ve matched Saturday’s AFL preliminary final, the Cobras relentlessly tallied inside 50 after inside 50, however the scoreboard failed to increase. After an early Jayden Cutts goal, Canterbury would go on to score seven consecutive behinds, failing to put away a St John’s outfit who struggled to keep up with the pace.
Bahaa Khoweiss stuck his boot out on the goal line in the final minute of the first half to create something out of nothing for St John’s, and all of a sudden it was a sevenpoint margin at the main break, 6.0 (36) to 5.13 (43).
“I wouldn’t say I was confident we’d turn it around (the scoring accuracy), but we definitely felt we were good enough to give ourselves the opportunity to win the game,” Ward said at halftime.
The Cobras maintained their quality skill level in the third quarter, but the heavy wind fuelled a resurgence from the JOC’s.
Canterbury’s early third-quarter lead of 13 began to close, as Harvey Emery and Houghton tacked on two goals to square the ledger. The two clubs exchanged behinds twice, before Jayden Rudd nailed a set shot to hand St John’s an unlikely lead. The Cobras had dominated possession and attack, but St John’s accuracy had given them life. A long set shot from St John’s faded left after the siren, with just one kick separating the two sides at the final change.
Canterbury had the “scoring end”, but in a Grand Final, they knew that wasn’t going to cut it.
“The three-quarter-time message was the scoring end wasn’t going to do it for us, we had to execute and work hard for it,” Ward said.
Emphasising their finals motto of “just one more”, Ward galvanised the troops for the last 30 minutes of their year.
St John’s coaching staff too spurred on their side with an expletive-laden rev-up to add some extra fire in the belly.
The Cobras would surge relentlessly again, emulating their second quarter that had St John’s on the ropes. Yet again though, scoring goals was a struggle for the Cobras. Six behinds in a row, whilst conceding one to St John’s, had Canterbury tantalisingly close to the lead, trailing 58-59. After mountains of pressure on the St John’s defence, Cobra Roham Walmsley led and marked inside 50. At the 19th minute mark of the fourth quarter, there was finally a goal, and Canterbury had finally regained the lead.
Tension could be felt all around the boundary of Martin Reserve, with the sense that one more goal from Canterbury would be the straw to break the camel’s back.
Insert Brad Kelleher. The number 16 stabbed the football through the middle sticks, and Canterbury’s momentum began to spike, as St John’s brave defence started unravelling. Kelleher nailed another, Nicolopoulos another two, and it was party time for the Cobras.
A strapping contest that hardly exceeded a two-goal margin for 110 minutes of action, the JOC’s eventually gave way to a highly-composed Canterbury side, who’s inaccuracy finally resolved. The fulltime scores saw Canterbury triumph by 29, 11.22 (88) to 9.5 (59).
The final siren was a blur for Canterbury players and coaches alike.
“Emotions were a bit of a whirlwind really, everything happened so quickly, and we were swamped by all our supporters,” Ward said.
Ward’s premiership side is the final one he’ll coach at Canterbury, moving on from his head coach role in 2025.
“Yes, finishing up. [I’m] very happy the group got the reward to finish it off.”
It’s Canterbury’s first taste at VAFA premiership glory since it’s 2015 Division 4 flag, and they’ll be promoted to Division 2 for the first time in their history.
Tom Lowden’s aerial dominance around the ground, as well as efforts in the ruck and forward-line, earned him the man of the match medal.
Houghton was one of St John’s best, easily the most poised for the JOC’s, and tactical with his possession.
St John’s too will advance to Division 2, without the silverware however, leaving JOC’s coach Tim Edwards gutted after the match.
“Disappointing result. Canterbury played an excellent brand of footy and were really tough and well drilled. Unfortunately, we ran out of soldiers and had nothing left in the tank late… This one really hurts but I’m proud of where the club has come from. I know this group will be even more determined next year to go one better,” Edwards said.
The curtains now close on a remarkable season of Division 3 Senior Men’s football.
The top four was separated by just two wins, and it was fourth-placed Canterbury, who had to play essentially a month of consecutive elimination finals, that claimed the ultimate prize. Finalists North Brunswick and Richmond Central will hold high hopes for 2025 given their reserves’ Grand Final appearances, as will Power House who finished third in 2024. The Division 3 teams will be joined by Bulleen Templestowe and Wattle Park next year, who have been relegated from Division 2 following low-ladder finishes.
GRAND FINAL RESULTS
DIVISION
3 MEN’S
GOALS: St Johns: C. Houghton 2, J. Rudd 1, H. Emery 1, B. Robson 1, T. Neal 1, B. Khoweiss 1, B. Ayache 1, M. Barry 1
GOALS: Canterbury: J. Nicolopoulos 4, B. Kelleher 3, J. Cutts 2, J. Boarotto 1, r. walmsley 1
BEST: St Johns: C. Houghton, J. Mourant, C. Ely, J. D’Atri, B. Robson, M. Barry
BEST: Canterbury: T. Lowden, B. Kelleher, J. Nicolopoulos, J. Boarotto, M. Szabo, N. Beacom
DIVISION 3 MEN’S RESERVES
North Brunswick:
(35) Richmond Central:
(52)
GOALS: North Brunswick: A. Ramzy 2, M. Waterson 2, K. Thomson 1
GOALS: Richmond Central: J. Jacotine 3, N. Banks 2, T. Waite 1, W. Hocking 1
BEST: North Brunswick: L. Pardini, M. Skinner, B. Davison, M. Waterson, S. Widdicombe, J. Horwood
BEST: Richmond Central: J. Jacotine, T. Waite, D. Dignam, D. Pratt, N. Banks, E. Smith
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WILLIAM BUCK PREMIER MEN’S
Old Brighton 181620064144.28
St Kevins 181251050119.27 Old Scotch 181260048132.2
Collegians 181170044109.82
Old Xaverians 181080040112.92
University Blues 18711002887.47
University Blacks 18711002881.34
St Bernards 18513002088.95
Fitzroy 18513002074.69
Old Melburnians 18413101876.56
BUCK PREMIER MEN’S RESERVES
18711002878.16
18612002479.25
1811700433.93
181431058160.41
181350052147.43
Old Trinity 181251050128.2
Old Geelong 181260048110.92 Old Ivanhoe 18108004096.54
Old Camberwell 18 98103897.22 Williamstown CYMS 18512102278.5
18513002080.77
18513002078.78
18315001264.8
18810003273.77
18513002067.51
1821600847.47
DIVISION 1
181620064196.74
181350052158.25
181260048136.16
181260048128.29
Peninsula 181080040104.24 Kew 18 891034 102.09
Bullants 18710103085.66 Therry Penola 18513002063.52 West Brunswick 18414001662.79 Old Yarra Cobras 1821600853.8
