Strathmerton produced a Picola District Football League reserves grand final win for the ages on Saturday, downing the previously undefeated Tungamah at Katunga Recreation Reserve.
The Bulldogs came from behind to pick up the result, with an arm wrestle of a decider having them run out 6.8 (44) to 3.9 (27) victors.
Initially, the Bears were on top, with poor kicking from both sides having Tungamah enter the first break six points up.
When the second quarter rolled around the Bulldogs were all over their opponents, yet a failure to make it count on the scoreboard had them just one point up at the main break.
It was clear that the wet surface benefited neither side on the day, with the close midfield battle having Strathmerton build its lead to one goal in the third term.
This close contest continued throughout the final term, with a Bulldogs goal to Sam Mansfield opening the door for his team to run away with the result.
From here despite the close contest throughout, the Bulldogs found a way, piling on a total of three last-quarter goals to secure victory.
A missed chance to the Bears in this final term proved costly and when the Bulldogs’ backline stood up, they could not be beaten.
“It feels very good,” Strathmerton coach Jade Shannon said following the win.
“We were probably unfit earlier in the year when they beat us.
“We identified we had to fix that up, which we did and it was just a battle today to get over the top of them.
“They’re a great side and it was the same last year, they were probably the best side, so to battle it out and get the win, for an old fella it’s really good.”
Shannon said the Bulldogs’ quicker players in the middle of the field were one reason for the victory.
“The fitness of our quicker fellas and they were probably a bit too quick for them (Tungamah) in the spread,” he said.
“That was what the difference was in the end.”
Luke Collyer picked up the best-on-ground award for his efforts on the backline, with multiple torpedo clearances getting the crowd up and about.
Along with Collyer, Shannon said Trent Collyer, Jordan Crestani, Daniel Buzza, Mick Keane and Nathan McNair were standouts for the premiers.
“It was just everyone,” he said.
In a true showing of Strathmerton’s colours, the reserves football side went directly from its presentation to watching the club’s A-grade netball team.
“That’s what sort of club we are,” he said.
“Everyone sticks together and we just wanted to show our support.”
For the Bears the result was heartbreaking, with the loss their first of the season.
Matt Irvine was named Tungamah’s best, while the efforts of Will Sharp and Nathan Waite were also recognised.
Despite the low score, Saturday’s contest was one to remember, with a much-deserved victory to the Bulldogs great reward for effort in trying conditions.
PDFL Reserves Grand Final
Strathmerton 0.3, 2.5, 3.7, 6.8 (44)
Tungamah 1.3, 2.4, 2.7, 3.9 (27)
GOALS: Strathmerton: J. Mackenzie 3, S. Mansfield, A. Wood, D. Buzza. Tungamah: M. Irvine, J. Henderson, D. Clarke.
BEST: Strathmerton: Not supplied. Tungamah: M. Irvine, W. Sharp, N. Waite, J. Saunders, N. Gamble, M. Adkins.