EDFL: Airport West beats Tullamarine by 56 points in Division 1 major semi-final

Airport West is one win away from returning to EDFL Premier Division after destroying Tullamarine in the Division 1 major semi-final.

Airport West and Tullamarine lock horns on Saturday. Picture: Andy Brownbill

THE minor premier is one win away from returning to Premier Division.

Airport West, which fell painfully short of the ultimate prize last season, earned a direct passage through to its second consecutive Essendon District Football League Division 1 decider after an imperious display against Tullamarine on Saturday.

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The teams were hard to split before the major semi-final, but the Eagles turned a serious battle into a stroll in the second half to claim a 56-point victory, 15.13 (103) to 6.11 (47), and a shot at the ultimate prize.

Airport West held a 10-point advantage at the main break before piling on nine of the game’s last 10 goals.

Bior Malual gathers the ball for Airport West. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Coach Geoff Maddern said there were “probably 12” players who warranted a mention in his best.

He reserved praise for Daniel Sinnott, Clayton Rogers and Alex Penaluna, who bagged five majors.

The midfield battle proved decisive as the Eagles took control in the second half.

“It was really tight early, a real arm-wrestle,” Maddern said.

“But I suppose after halftime the game opened up a bit and we were able to get the momentum at that point and hold on to it. We were pretty pleased.

“We were just waiting for those moments where the game would open up a bit.

“We needed to match Tullamarine on the inside and then we had to try and expose them outside the contest.

“I think that’s what got us across the line.”

Brendan Godden on the burst for Tullamarine. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Just half a game separated the pair at the end of the home-and-away rounds and it was difficult to glean much from their previous two meetings.

Airport West was hammered by 70 points in Round 9 in a performance which fell well short of what we have become accustomed to, while the Eagles won by 23 points in Round 18 when both teams had multiple players missing.

Tullamarine’s Steven Vocale looks for an option. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Asked if the ease of the triumph had given his side a psychological edge should it meet Tullamarine again, Maddern said: “I honestly don’t know.

“We respect Tullamarine. They’re a terrific footy club and a good bunch of guys as well and I’m sure they’ll bounce back and have a go.

“But I suppose a win like that was pretty emphatic, and they’ll have to work hard, that’s for sure.”

In more good news, Airport West emerged from the opening week of finals with a clean bill of health as it prepares for the grand final at Windy Hill on September 8.