Will it be ‘Premiership Prime Train’? WGFNL grand final preview

Tom Baulch, aka Prime Train, plans to ignite Phillip Island against Nar Nar Goon in the West Gippsland league grand final. We list the key players who’ll decide the flag.

Tom Baulch playing for the Darwin Buffaloes in the 2023-24 NTFL season. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

He’s played for 10 different teams around Australia this season but Tom Baulch, aka Prime Train, faces his biggest challenge yet on Saturday.

The social media influencer, who has 125k followers, will line-up for Phillip Island in the West Gippsland league grand final against Nar Nar Goon at Garfield.

Baulch has made the Bulldogs his home after completing his playing roadshow in July.

Firing off eight goals in his first appearance for Phillip Island, he’s played in six wins from seven matches with the Bulldogs.

“He’s been really good, he’s fitted in well,” Phillip Island football manager Scott Huther said.

“He’s just a 24-year-old kid doing what he does. He’s actually a ripper.”

Tom Baulch in action for the Noosa Tigers. Picture: Craig Slaney Sports Photography.

Huther said the Prime Train had been terrific around the club, especially with the juniors.

“A lot of people on the outside think he’s a showboat and he’s all about himself but it’s completely opposite,” he said.

“He’s bought into the club…he gets around the juniors, he’s done some talks with the kids leading into the finals.

“What he does for the brand is awesome. And what he does for the kids in fitness and well-being is a credit to him, he cops lot of flak but he’s actually just a genuine 24-year-old who wants to be successful and play good footy.

“He loves the guys and just wants to be part of a team that is pushing for a flag, and obviously he’s got that chance.”

Cameron Pedersen of the Demons celebrates kicking a goal. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Phillip Island, led by former Melbourne forward Cameron Pedersen as playing-coach, knocked off minor premiers Cora Lynn by 12 points in the qualifying final to make a third consecutive grand final.

Nar Nar Goon also beat Cora Lynn, in the preliminary final, to reach the decider.

The Goon are chasing their first senior flag since 2010.

Phillip Island’s Damien Holmes will play his 300th game in the grand final.

Key players to decide the grand final:

Jesse Patullo, Phillip Island

The key defender held Cora Lynn’s century goal kicker Nathan Gardiner goalless in the semi-final and will play a big role on Nar Nar Goon’s Dermott Yawney.

Hayden Bruce, Phillip Island

The league medallist will be crucial in the midfield. Expect a big game from him as he looks to cap a brilliant season with the ultimate.

Zac Walker, Phillip Island

The league’s rising star winner has it all — athleticism, marking ability and versatility, able to play back, forward, ruck, or even on a wing. Has had a great second half of the season.

Cameron Pedersen, Phillip Island

The ex-Kangaroo and Demon is coming off a knee reco but he’s feeling the best he’s felt since last year. He can change the game…and is likely to play up forward and also in the ruck.

Jack Taylor, Phillip Island

The Bulldogs captain is a vital player because of his hardness at the ball, and ability to be a spark up forward.

Trent Armour, Nar Nar Goon

The captain is a massive inspiration to his teammates. He does all the one-percenters and is a workhorse who never gives up.

Dermott Yawney marks for Pakenham. Picture: David Crosling

Dermott Yawney, Nar Nar Goon

With 54 goals this season, Yawney is a big presence up forward; if he’s on the boys around him lift.

James Cairns, Nar Nar Goon

“Safe Hands” Cairns’ intercept marking ability is sure to be a key factor.

Flynn Parker, Nar Nar Goon

A workhorse in the backline and crucial to his side’s success.

Harry Brain, Nar Nar Goon

With pace and skill on a wing, and the ability to read the play so well, Brain will have a big influence on the game.