GFNL Finals: South Barwon lock in grand final berth after thrilling win over St Mary’s
South Barwon is through to its first grand final in a decade after holding on to a thrilling victory over St Mary’s, with a kick after the siren deciding the two clubs’ fate.
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South Barwon has survived a shot after the siren to advance into its first senior grand final since 2013, holding on in a thrilling semi final over St Mary’s.
Star Saint Patrick Dowling took a contested mark on the lead with his side down four points, with the siren signalling the end of play as he lined up his shot.
But the ball came off the side of his boot, scoring a point and giving South Barwon a 6.13 (49) to 6.10 (46) victory at West Oval Reserve.
Swans coach Mark Neeld, who took over the coaching gig at the end of the 2022 season, said he was wishing for a wayward kick from the Saints forward.
“Paddy is a really good player, he had a really good game and there will be days where he kicks those,” he said.
“It was a pretty incredible angle to try and kick from, that’s a tough one but he’s an incredible player and has been for a while in this competition.”
West Oval was engulfed by a strong breeze that swirled around the ground, making it difficult for players to hit targets and kick goals.
Neeld said the pressure played a significant part in the contest being a significantly scrappy affair.
“The pressure was immense, it’s a final and there’s always going to be pressure and players will feel that differently,” he said.
“That had some impact on the game, players felt a bit more rushed than usual but that comes with it.
“We didn’t ask for many adjustments, it was more reminders on what they like about footy and how they like to play.
“St Mary’s are an incredible side, they bring really great pressure to a game of football, and if you ask any player they want to play free-flowing games of footy, but you can’t do that against St Mary’s.”
South Barwon trailed at three quarter time, with the Swans doubling their goal tally in the final term as they overcame the Saints.
Harry Cunningham and Fraser Fort both booted two goals each for South Barwon in the win, while Sam Dobson looked dangerous for St Mary’s with two majors as well.
Originally published as GFNL Finals: South Barwon lock in grand final berth after thrilling win over St Mary’s
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