EDFL: Strathmore overcomes Strathmore to reach grand final

Strathmore is into its first EDFL Premier Division grand final since 2014 on the back of dominant displays from two of its stars as the “best player in the competition” returned.

When Strathmore needed more from its stars, Andrew Vavra and Nicholas O’Brien delivered.

The talented duo were at their dominant best as Strathmore moved through to its first EDFL Premier Division grand final since 2014 after proving to be too good for Pascoe Vale in the preliminary final.

Strathmore led at every break to run out comfortable 14.11 (95) to 7.8 (50) winners at Highgate Reserve on Saturday afternoon.

They’ll now face Aberfeldie in the decider on Saturday.

O’Brien and Vavra were named the best two players on the ground for the Mores.

Vavra dominated in the ruck while O’Brien was classy with his ball use.

Mores coach Matt Horne spoke highly of their performances.

“They’re both really proud guys and they were disappointed with how the game against Aberfeldie went,” he said.

“I thought Vavra was very influential in all aspects of the game. O’Brien had prolific numbers against Aberfeldie and kicked a couple of goals so he just picked up from where he left off, his running power is unbelievable.”

Strathmore’s Lachlan Currie. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Horne demanded a response from his players after they were forced into a do-or-die clash after a disappointing loss to Aberfeldie in the second semi-final.

While they hit the scoreboard heavily, it was a dominant defensive display which had Horne happiest.

“We were really disappointed with our performance the week before so we went away and worked on different areas of our game,” he said.

“In the last nine games of the home-and-away season we conceded just 404 points, no one else came close to that. We knew we were a good defensive side.

“You don’t just lose your system after one bad week so that’s what we focused on and reiterated that to the players.

“All of the key measures which relate to the scoreboard were clear for us. In the second quarter (where Strathmore kicked seven goals), we managed to get more speed on the ball and I thought our work around the contest was impressive.”

Strathmore’s Sean Callander. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Will Jury returned from injury after missing the first final and had an immediate impact to be named among Strathmore's better players.

Adam Iacobucci, Athan Tsialtas and Brock Egglestone were also impressive in a winning effort.

“I think Will is the best player in the competition,” Horne said.

“He was line ball for the first final but we thought we’d take a cautious approach because we had the double chance.

“It’s all about the team but it’s always nice to bring someone of his quality into the side.”

A fourth meeting of the season awaits against Aberfeldie and Horne is aware of the challenge ahead.

“From an outsiders point of view, you’d say they’ve been the best team all year,” he said.

“It’s never a good time to lose, especially in finals like we did last week, but it gave us an opportunity to go away and review some things from our game.

“It will be a big day for the club, it will be the first time in about 30 years we’ve had seniors, reserves and under 18s all playing on grand final day.”

Ozgur Uysal kicked three goals for Pascoe Vale while Ben Allan was named best on ground.