EFL 2019: Croydon to contend for first flag since 1997
Croydon will contend for its first premiership in more than two decades when it meets Doncaster East in the EFL Division 1 decider after ending Park Orchards’ finals run.
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Croydon will be vying for just its third premiership in nearly 50 years after a comfortable preliminary final victory over Park Orchards on Saturday.
The Blues controlled the contest from the opening bounce at Boronia’s Tormore Reserve, going on to record a 48-point victory.
The 10.6 (66) to 2.6 (18) win set up an EFL Division 1 grand final date against minor premier Doncaster East, when Croydon will be chasing a significant slice of club history.
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It will be chasing a third EFL flag to add to the 1971 and 1997 triumphs.
Croydon coach Morris D’Alessandro said there were positives to draw from the semi-final defeat against Doncaster East on August 31.
The Blues led for a large portion of the second half but conceded the last three goals as the Lions earned direct passage to the grand final.
“We took a lot of confidence out of that game and we had some periods where we dominated,” D’Alessandro said.
“We just have to make sure those periods become longer and we go harder for longer.”
It will be the fourth time in five years Doncaster East has played in the competition’s final game of the year as it looks to win promotion to the league’s top tier for the first time in club history.
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“We’ve got a few plans we’re going to put in place,” D’Alessandro said.
“A couple of weeks ago it was a really tight game so we’re pretty comfortable going in but they’ve got some really good players and a lot of experience.
“Simon White is always dominant and he has played pretty well against us so we’ll have to nullify his impact on the game.”
D’Alessandro again poured praise on his young group.
Emerging talents Bailey Hotker, Matt McKenzie, Andrew Carter and Kane Doueal were among the best players.
“We were really comfortable with the direction we were taking,” D’Alessandro said.
“We knew we had the talent there but I think we’ve been surprised as to how quick they have come along.
“This young group has been amazing.”
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