EDFL: Oak Park prevails against Coburg Districts

A “really brave” Oak Park is through to its first grand final since 2011 after overcoming Coburg Districts with coach Todd Clark impressed by one of his stars.

What was once a weakness for Oak Park is now becoming one of their biggest strengths.

In the last two weeks, the Kangaroos have got off to fast starts which has put them into winning positions on both occasions.

Last weekend, they fell short against Keilor Park.

On Saturday, Coburg Districts was unable to reel Oak Park back in as the Kangaroos won through to the Essendon District Football League Division 2 grand final courtesy of a 13.3 (81) to 9.12 (66) victory in the preliminary final.

Oak Park will contest a decider for the first time since 2011 against Keilor Park.

Oak Park coach Todd Clark.Photo: Hamish Blair

In near pristine conditions at Highgate Reserve, the Kangaroos raced out of the blocks to lead 4.1 to 1.1 at the first change and that’s about where the margin stayed for the rest of the afternoon.

Oak Park coach Todd Clark said it had been a focus for his side in recent weeks.

“We went through a bit of a slump where we were always being put on the back foot,” he said.

“Last time we played Coburg Districts we were 34 points down at quarter-time and we couldn’t afford to be in that position again.

“Our starts have been very pleasing the last two weeks despite losing against Keilor Park. We didn’t actually mind the momentum of continuing to play instead of having the week off.

“All three of our sides are in the grand final, we’re very proud of that achievement as a club.

“Our playing group has been really brave.”

Cameron Milich of Oak Park. Photo: Hamish Blair

Jedd Taylor starred on the big stage for the Kangaroos in a best on ground performance where he covered just about every blade of grass.

He bobbed up with two goals inside forward 50 but also provided plenty of support to his defence.

Mitch Leathers, Scott Gilliland, Daniel Rajab, Ryan Smith and Liam Molloy were also impressive for Oak Park.

“I couldn’t have been happier with his (Taylor’s game,” Clark said.

“He just knows how to read the ball and how to get it. He got around the back when he needed which is probably more important than the goals he kicked.”

Mitch Robinson led the way with three goals for the Kangaroos, while Districts coach Tom Gleeson added four of his own.

But on the scoreboard it was a matter of who could take their opportunities.

Districts had 21 scoring shots to 16.

“I probably didn’t realise how well we were kicking,” Clark said.

“It came down to our entries being clearer while at the other end we tried to make it a mess in their forward 50.”

Spencer Aitken was named best on ground for Districts.