Southern league: Lyndhurst jubilant after winning the Division 4 grand final
Finally, Lyndhurst has a flag to fly after toppling the previously unbeaten Frankston Dolphins in the SFNL Division 4 grand final. SEE THE PICS.
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Finally, Lyndhurst has a flag to fly.
The Lightning put to bed the pain of successive grand final losses in 2018-19 when it toppled hot favourite Frankston Dolphins by eight points in the Southern league Division 4 grand final on Saturday, claiming their historic first senior premiership.
Lyndhurst’s Hamish Browning kicked the only goal of the final quarter as the Lightning prevailed 6.15 (51) to 5.13 (43) in an epic tussle at Power Reserve.
The lead change more than 10 times throughout the match as both clubs chased their first senior premiership.
The Dolphins were looking to complete a rare undefeated season but fell at the final hurdle.
Lyndhurst captain Charlie Gardiner took home the best-on-ground medal, capping a four-quarter performance with two vital goals.
Browning also kicked two goals, his second from a pinpoint pass from ruckman Daniel Culnane that gave the Lightning breathing space with minutes to go.
The Dolphins were surging forward when the siren sounded, sparking scenes of jubilation among the Lightning faithful.
Lyndhurst’s first year coach Jae Williams hugged players, committee members and supporters as the magnitude of the achievement sunk in.
Williams, a Dromana premiership player in the Mornington Peninsula league, put his hand up to coach the club in the pre season.
His appointment was a master stroke. He instilled belief and the players went into battle for him.
“The first one of many, baby,” he declared at the presentation.
Lyndhurst started brightly, outscoring the Dolphins three goals to one in the opening quarter.
Momentum swung wildly and it was anyone’s game at three quarter time when the Dolphins led by a point.
Both sides had their chances in a gripping last term. Lyndhurst’s backline was under siege but stood up with several decisive marks.
Jesse Walia, Jason Twite and Matthew O’Callaghan gave their all.
There were acts of desperation, too. Brodie Kiss smothered a kick from Dolphins defender Daniel Edwards-Fisk.
Tyson Sparkes gave Lightning a burst of ernergy, and his tackling pressure was outstanding.
The Dolphins gave their all. The supremely fit Andy Mathers ran hard and was creative all game.
Luke Long looked dangerous and kicked a great goal, while Nathanael Furlong showed dash, bouncing out of defence.
The Dolphins were clearly shattered after the loss but they showed great sportsmanship by congratulating Lyndhurst and applauding them at the presentation.
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