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SANDHURST’S dominance of the Bendigo Football Netball League’s under-18s competition rolled on in Saturday’s clash with Gisborne.
On a 19-game winning streak going into the Cup decider, Sandhurst made a brilliant start to grand final day.
The Dragons raced to a six-goal lead by quarter-time.
John Harvey kicked two goals in the opening term.
The goal spree included Ned Slater’s soccer shot bouncing through. Lachie Tardrew was on target from the Aquatic Centre pocket at the Barnard Street end.
Gisborne’s first goal was scored by Thomas Wood after a chase and strong tackle about 25m from goal.
The Brad Spear-coached Bulldogs, who had just 19 players available, lifted their defensive efforts markedly.
By half-time the Dragons led 46-8.
It was more of the same in the third as Fergus Greene took strong marks or won contests to kick all three of his team’s goals in the term.
Greene’s accuracy at goal, especially from distance was outstanding.
Son of Sandhurst great Chris and younger brother of Seb, Fergus stamped his mark on this grand final.
Gisborne’s sole reply was through James O’Hare on the run from near the 50m arc.
A fired-up Sandhurst did not let up and scored 6.5.
Wood added his second for the Bulldogs.
At the final siren, Sandhurst led 16.13 (109) to 3.2 (20).
The Rod Ashman Medal was awarded to Lachie Furness.
Lachlan Tardrew capped a fine game by earning the AFL Victoria Country Medal.
Sandhurst’s stars included Kyle Chant, Billy Hughes, Ned Slater and Jack Coghlan.
Gisborne’s best were captain Liam Rodgers, Thomas Wood and Conor Dimasi.
It was a hat-trick of premiership wins for Sandhurst coach Daniel Francis.
“Workrate played a big part in our success, not just today, but all season,” Francis said.
“Our start was fantastic. The attack at the contest, defensive pressure and finishing (goals) was excellent.”
Francis praised Gisborne’s effort to reach the grand final.
“They (Gisborne) have five or six eligible for under-18s who spent most of the year in the seniors.”
Francis said the premiership capped all the hard work in training and matches played in the run to and through September.
