RDFL 2018: Riddell advances to RDFL grand final with win over Diggers Rest

RIDDELL’s remarkable run of results continued on Saturday with a hard-fought win in the Riddell District Football League major semi-final.

Riddell's Dylan Tarczon (top) celebrating after Ben Sonogan kicked a goal on Saturday. Picture: Josie Hayden

RIDDELL’s remarkable run of results continued on Saturday with a hard-fought win in the Riddell District Football League major semi-final.

The Bombers will now enjoy the benefits of a week off in the lead-up to the decider on September 16 after seeing off Diggers Rest by 22 points.

Riddell coach Jamie Elliott said it was “a slog” in the first half as both teams struggled to make an impact at Sunbury’s Clarke Oval.

Riddell's Paul Sahlberg and Diggers Rest's Billy Fellows. Picture: Josie Hayden

With below-par ball use and decision making affecting the flow of play in tough conditions, the Bombers led by 10 points after a first half which yielded only three goals in total.

In a “pretty defensive” game, it was Riddell’s pressure and attack of the ball which proved vital in its 10.8 (68) to 7.4 (46) victory.

A five-goal to two third quarter was decisive in creating a result-deciding break, before both teams hit the scoreboard more frequently in the final term.

Riddell's Tommy Alkemade is wrapped up by a Diggers Rest opponent. Picture: Josie Hayden

“At that ground there are a lot of one-on-ones, so you have to be pretty competitive on the ground,” Elliott said.

“I thought our pressure was terrific and the tackling was really good throughout.”

Elliott said nerves were not a factor for Riddell as it reeled off its 15th consecutive victory, with players standing “up at different times” to make an impact.

Nathan Croft (two goals), Tom Belleville and Bryce Williamson were named Riddell’s best.

Diggers Rest's Patrick Jackson looks to gather possession. Picture: Josie Hayden

“With goals hard to come by, the midfielders popped up on occasion,” he said.

“It was a really good team performance.

“If you get (seven goalkickers) every week it spreads it around and takes the load off the forwards.”

Taylor Hine, Tom Taylor and Stephen Ruane impressed for the Burras, who will take on Macedon in Saturday’s preliminary final.