VAFA 2018: Ormond digs deep to win gripping grand final
ORMOND lifted when it mattered to beat Hampton Rovers by six points in an epic VAFA Division 1 grand final at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Saturday.
Local Footy
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Footy. Followed categories will be added to My News.
ORMOND lifted when it mattered to beat Hampton Rovers by six points in an epic VAFA Division 1 grand final at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Saturday.
The Monders took a 17-point advantage into the last quarter but lost the lead as a surging Hampton Rovers made a bold bid for glory.
A desperate Ormond threw defender Blair Atkins forward and it worked. He took a mark and kicked a goal to level scores.
Two crucial clearances by midfielder Jake Lever kept Ormond’s momentum going.
And then 17-year-old gun Max Kennedy – a star on the rise – pounced to slot an eye-popping banana goal from the boundary as Ormond secured the premiership, 11.9 (75) to 9.15 (69).
Kennedy finished with five goals in a best-on-ground performance. It followed his best-afield display in the second semi-final win and a 37-possession effort in the second-last home-and-away round.
Ormond coach Ash Lever praised his players for fighting back after losing the lead late in the game.
“They got themselves into a bit of a situation and worked their way out of it,’’ he said.
“We spoke about how good sides find a way and they found a way. It wasn’t the prettiest win but they found a way to make it happen.’’
Lever said Kennedy’s last goal was “unbelievable’’.
“He was right on the boundary and he’s check sided this goal – unbelievable. Everyone in the whole joint just erupted,’’ he said.
“For a kid who’s 17 years of age, geez, he showed some poise and talent.’’
Ormond midfielder Chris Coghlan was pivotal in the first half with his clearance work and strength over ball, while Atkins did a lot of good things, Lever stood up when required and 18-year-old Tonn Steele’s forward pressure was terrific.
Matt Hine and Tim Blackburn were also in the best players.
Ormond won its last six games of the season to win the flag. Its last three were all against Hampton Rovers.
Ormond’s reserves also won the premiership, beating Hampton Rovers 15.10 (100) to 10.13 (73).
Power House eyes premiership push
After a disappointing end to the 2024 season, Power House is aiming to be towards the pointy end of the VAFA Division 3 ladder once again. Here’s how they plan to do it after a busy off-season.
Family draws Spicer to Stars
A family connection helped Fitzroy Stars land ex-AFL forward Phoenix Spicer and coach Neville Jetta believes it can have a longer-lasting impact.