Wallan misses out on an RDFL finals spot after a final-round loss against Romsey

WALLAN suffered a heartbreaking end to its Riddell District Football League campaign, missing finals on percentage.

Wallan’s Brenton Cox sends his team forward on Saturday. Picture: Mark Dadswell

WALLAN suffered a heartbreaking end to its Riddell District Football League campaign, missing finals on percentage.

The Magpies led at the last break in their do-or-die clash against finalist Romsey, but the Redbacks booted six final-quarter goals to win 14.10 (94) to 11.12 (78).

Wallan’s Corey Grindlay celebrates a goal on Saturday. Picture: Mark Dadswell

The result meant Wallan dropped from fourth to seventh after Riddell and Sunbury Kangaroos won, with the Kangaroos finishing 2.58 percentage points ahead.

“This time last year we needed to win well and make finals, which we did. This year we had a crack but just weren’t good enough at the end of the day,” co-coach Damien Zanic said.

In a tight battle at Romsey Park, young gun Corey Grindlay starred for the Magpies, booting five goals, while playing co-coach Daniel Nolan kicked three to finish with 43 for the season.

Aaron Paterson of Romsey takes on Daniel Mackertich and Shaun Stewart of Wallan. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Grindlay, who will play finals in the under-18s, was “excellent”.

“He really stood up when it mattered. To kick five goals was an outstanding effort,” Zanic said. “He is a smart kid and a smart footballer and he showed that (Saturday).”

Brenton Cox, Chris Barton and Shaun Stewart also played well. The club will now switch its attention to its reserves and under-18 sides, who finished minor premiers.