AFL Yarra Ranges grand final: Wandin defeats Woori Yallock by 37 points

Wandin produced a dominant display to claim its second flag in four years after beating Woori Yallock by 37 points in the AFL Yarra Ranges Division 1 decider.

Wandin players celebrate the club’s grand final triumph. Picture: Mark Dadswell

GREY clouds filled the sky above Yarra Glen Reserve, but the smiles from the Wandin faithful lit up the ground after a stirring AFL Yarra Ranges Division 1 grand final triumph on Friday.

The Bulldogs were dominant for much of the contest against Woori Yallock, setting up a matchwinning 47-point lead at the final break, before surviving a spirited late fightback to prevail 16.11 (107) to 9.16 (70).

Wandin strikes a premiership pose. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Outgoing Wandin coach Nick Rutley did not hide his emotions in the moments leading up to the final siren after his side had secured victory.

“It hasn’t (sunk in) and it won’t,” he said.

“I’m only early into my coaching journey so it’s a really special moment but for Wandin it’s huge.

“I’m so happy for the people and what they’ve done this year.”

Wandin captain Robert Ross and coach Nick Rutley show off the silverware. Picture: Mark Dadswell

The win marked Wandin’s second premiership in four years.

“We had a plan coming in — to get the ball in quickly and deep and press up,” Rutley said.

“We were just relentless in our pressure.

“Repeat stoppages was the biggest stat for the last six weeks and we just held on to that.”

In a physical game, the Bulldogs took control in the second term after Tiger Robert Allen was given a yellow card and reported for striking Clinton Johnson.

Tempers flare in the decider. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Wandin booted three goals in that period and followed up with a four goal to none third term.

Gun forward Justin Van Unen was the difference in attack, counting two superb checkside goals and a sidefoot volley among six majors — taking his season tally to 96 — while captain Robert Ross was named best afield in front of a record crowd of more than 4500.

Wandin players celebrate on the final siren. Picture: Mark Dadswell

“They’re just a fantastic group of people,” Rutley said.

“I’m a relationships type of coach. I invest so much time into the boys and that’s the by-product I guess.

“I’m very, very proud.”

Dejected Woori Yallock players after the grand final defeat. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Ryley Monkhorst was named Woori Yallock’s best, while Jordy Williams was vital in the centre during the team’s four-goal burst during the final quarter as the team fell short in the season decider for the second year in a row.