EFL 2019: Vermont seals fourth consecutive minor premiership

Vermont equalled a record set by two of its greatest ever sides in the 12-point win over South Croydon as the Eagles narrow-in on a tilt at back-to-back premierships.

Vermont defender Matt Willcocks sends the Eagles into attack. Picture: Davis Harrigan

Vermont matched a record set by two of its greatest sides on Saturday as it narrows-in on a tilt at back-to-back premierships.

The EFL powerhouse guaranteed it will finish as minor premier for a fourth consecutive year after a 12-point win over South Croydon at Cheong Park.

It equalled the feat achieved by the club from 1988-91 and 1995-98.

But this Vermont side’s place on the club’s list of ‘greatest ever teams’ will be decided if it can translate home-and-away success into grand final glory.

Vermont coach Harmit Singh. Picture: Davis Harrigan

It sits at the top of the Premier Division ladder with a 15-1 record and percentage of 196.14 and will enter finals as warm flag favourites.

Four goals to one in the second quarter helped Vermont to 9.15 (69) to 8.9 (57) win over the Bulldogs.

The Eagles kicked just one goal in the first term but produced a 26-point turnaround in the next 30 minutes.

“I think our second quarter (we were) plus-15 in term of inside 50s and our pressure was really good so we were able to keep the ball in our front half for a longer period of time,” Vermont coach Harmit Singh said.

“South started really well. They’re a quality team and they play their ground really well and their contested ball is quite strong.”

Fringe player Xavier Barry-Murphy was sent to South Croydon star Matt Jones and limited the former AFL midfielder’s impact.

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“Matt Jones got really hot early,” Singh said.

“After quarter-time Xav went to Matt Jones, who has just been playing unreal football. Chandler Medal kind of football to be honest. We went a run-with and Xav did a pretty good job.

“He’s probably the best runner on our list and he’s just determined to play a role to stay in the senior team.”

Barry-Murphy has played nine games in the reserves this year and played in the seconds premiership last year, but has spent the past three weeks in the seniors.

“The 22 we had, we left Cam Purdy and Tom Maas out. They just had a few little niggles so we rested them this week,” Singh said.

“The McComb twins (Luke and Robbie) are not far away from coming back as well but the 22 that did play, the ball is in their court.

“If they play their role and play well, it puts pressure on other players.”

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