Kieran Lovell reveals TSL grand final doubt before best afield performance

Kieran Lovell has revealed just how close the decision to play in Saturday’s TSL grand final was following a best afield performance.

Kieran Lovell Tigers. TSL grand final Kingborough Tigers V North Launceston. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Watching Kieran Lovell’s three-goal best afield performance in Saturday’s TSL grand final, you wouldn’t think there was doubt on his availability during the week.

The superstar midfielder injured his hamstring in the qualifying final two weeks ago, after overcoming a late season calf complaint, and while he was likely never a chance to miss the biggest day in the Tigers history, Lovell admitted post-game there was moments of doubt during the week.

Kieran Lovell Tigers best on ground. TSL grand final Kingborough Tigers V North Launceston. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“I had to play a bit of a different role today because I wasn’t even sure if I was going to get up to play,” Lovell said.

“So to be able to get on the end of a couple and have an impact was pleasing.

“I probably would have still played no matter how bad I was but throughout the week there was a little bit of stress about what I’d be able to do, but once the adrenaline got going it was pretty much see ball, get ball.”

Facing a 12-point deficit at quarter-time, Lovell’s first goal two minutes into the second quarter gave the Tigers the spark they so desperately needed.

But it was his third goal at the other end of the ground in the third term that gave Kingborough a game-high 27-point lead that arguably secured the Tigers their first state league premiership.

“To win a premiership with this club has been a goal of mine for eight or nine years now so to do it today after all the hard times we’ve had is just unbelievable,” Lovell said.