EAGLEHAWK is celebrating its first Bendigo Football-Netball League premiership in 10 years after powering away from Strathfieldsaye to win by 49 points on Saturday.
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The Hawks booted 11 goals to four after half-time to prevail 19.8 (122) to 11.7 (73) at the Queen Elizabeth Oval in front of a grand final crowd that paid a gate of almost $70,000.
The victory helped to exorcise the demons of 12 months earlier when the Hawks had given up a 20-point three quarter-time lead and lost to the Storm by 32 points.
This time the Hawks were 25 points up at three quarter-time and finished the game full of run with a 6.2 to 2.2 final term kicking to the Barnard Street end that was jam packed in the South Bendigo rooms pocket with vocal and passionate Borough supporters.
“I can’t describe it… it’s just pure elation at the moment and a lot of relief,” Hawks’ coach Josh Bowe said.
“Last year really cut us deep and although we didn’t make it a big focus with this being a new season, that hurt that sits with you relayed into some extra effort today.”
In a performance that will go down in BFNL grand final folklore, Eaglehawk ruckman Jonty Neaves overcame a dislocated elbow and broken arm to win the Nalder Medal for best on ground.
The AFL Victoria Medal went to team-mate and Hawks’ vice-captain Brodie Collins, who kicked the first goal of the match.
The victory delivered the Hawks their 27th senior premiership, bringing them within one of Sandhurst’s BFNL record of 28.
Meanwhile, extra time was needed in the A Grade netball grand final before Sandhurst defeated Gisborne to win back-to-back premierships.
A goal from Gisborne shooter Ella Bertachinni after the final whistle levelled the scores 43-all.
However, the Dragons outscored the Bulldogs 10-4 in extra time to clinch a 53-47 victory.
For the second year in a row Sandhurst wing attack Meg Williams was awarded best-on-court.
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