EDFL: Keilor Park win through to Division 2 grand final over Oak Park

Keilor Park is through to its first grand final in over 20 years after a milestone man and an ex-AFL midfielder stole the show.

Kris Thomas isn’t likely to forget his 300th game for Keilor Park anytime soon.

The Devils won through to the Essendon District Football League Division 2 grand final after overcoming Oak Park in the second semi-final on Sunday.

Thomas was named best on ground for his side.

Usually deployed at halfback, Keilor Park coach Paul Guicas swung Thomas into the middle as he searched for answers to get his side back into the game after five goals to two in the opening term.

The Devils still trailed by a goal at halftime before producing a stunning final quarter to run out 12.10 (82) to 8.8 (56) winners.

“Kris is Keilor Park through and through,” Guicas said.

“When the club didn’t have a side he went and spent a couple of years at Moonee Valley and came back this season. You might not see him in our best players every week but he’s just another one of those good contributors we’ve had all season.

“It was a big day for him and he played an absolute beauty. His second half was as good as anyone’s.

“There were a lot of happy people at the club on Sunday night.”

Vincent Schiavello of Keilor Park.Picture: Hamish Blair

The Devils’ stars rose to the occasion when their team needed them most.

Damien Cavka made his mark with four goals to make it nine majors from his last three outings.

Daylan Kempster, Oscar Sasalu, Robbie Castello and Bryce Whelan were also impressive in the big win.

“We targeted guys with experience in big games to come to our club and they came to the floor,” Guicas said.

“It’s great to have them around, they’re so important to what we’re trying to achieve. Oak Park came really prepared for the game in the way they were able to set up the ground.

“In the third quarter we had to make it a slug fest because they had the breeze. I know our guys are fit so I knew they’d run the game out.

“There’s been times this year where we haven’t been challenged too much and it was fantastic to see our leaders drive the response.”

Jake Gatto of Keilor Park. Picture: Hamish Blair

The Devils now await the winner of Saturday’s preliminary final between Oak Park and Coburg Districts at Craigieburn.

Guicas’ team are already in preparation mode for the September 3 decider.

“We had a recovery session at the pools on Monday night and Tuesday training will be pretty light,” he said.

“Sunday was a really tough game. Our reserves won through to the grand final as well which was really special for the club.

“We’re pretty injury free at the moment which is fantastic.”

Anthony Ricupero was named best on ground for Oak Park while Jesse Hotchkin and Daniel Rajab also showed impressive signs.