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SHARKS BLOW DEVILS AWAY

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by Victoria Halkias (Twitter: @VictoriaMLH)

DONCASTER has produced a scintillating 11-goal final term to defeat Wantirna South by 59 points, 25.11 (161) to 15.12 (102), and claim the Division 3 premiership in today’s ‘Choose Tap’ Grand Final.

Fans could not have asked for a better day. East Burwood Reserve was bathed in sunlight and conditions were perfect for what promised to be an exciting game.

Both teams entered today’s game fairly evenly matched, having dominated the top two spots on the ladder throughout the season, leaving pundits unsure of whom to back.

It quickly became apparent, however, that Andrew Tranquilli’s boys would be a dominant force and, in the end, prove to be too good for the courageous Devils.

Ruckman Ewan McKenzie played a terrific four-quarter game and was rewarded with the Blue Ribbon Medal for the best player on the ground.

Former AFL player Nathan Thompson was an incredible presence on the field, managing to kick nine goals for the match.

He had a great deal of help from teammates Aaron Fiora and Chris Annakis, who were also influential on ground.

Steve Muller came out firing for the Sharks, slotting the first goal within minutes of the opening siren. But it didn’t take too long for Wantirna South’s Luke Smith to answer back. Scores remained level for majority of the first term.

It was evident that both teams had a very different playing style. Wantirna South settled in nicely, opting for a quick precise style, while Doncaster played a longer, running game, which worked to its advantage.

Doncaster was a force to be reckoned with all throughout the first half. The Sharks moved the ball well through the midfield and into the forward line. Not to mention the pressure they put on Wantirna South.

Wantirna South proved on numerous occasions that it would not go away.

The Devils owned the third term, with Anthony Pappa, Brent Walker and Michael Jamieson all kicking magnificent goals.

They worked hard, playing an aggressive game and showing they weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

Despite all the Devils’ hard work, Doncaster came out all cylinders firing in the fourth term, kicking goal after goal after goal.

It was Annakis that got things started, followed by some brilliant work from Adrian Gallace, Steve Muller and, of course, the star of the day Thompson.

The Sharks were great in defense, stopping Wantirna South at every angle and limiting scoring opportunities for the Devils.

As the final term drew to a close, everyone at East Burwood Reserve knew the outcome. However the Sharks kept working hard.

Fiora kicked an amazing goal from outside 50 to seal Doncaster’s fait.

It left the crowd in awe and the Sharks faithful utterly elated.

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