Almanac Footy – WAFL Grand Final: It all adds up for the Lions
Subiaco were just far too good in the WAFL decider. [Source: Les Everett]
There are some interesting numbers to consider when thinking about the WAFL grand final – 9, 8, 6, 5 – that’s the number of goals South Fremantle scored in their four appearances. Two wins over Claremont, two loses to Subiaco.
So while the Bulldogs provided hope of a competitive showing against the hot favourite Lions by dominating much of the first half, their inability to kick goals made the result inevitable.
The turning points in the game were unusual. South’s Travis Abbott took his second contested mark of the second quarter and lined up for his second goal to put his team in front by eight points. He missed and the Bulldogs didn’t score again until the last quarter.
And at the opening bounce of the second half South’s Nick Suban, who had played a good first half, made a point of whacking Greg Clark’s crook shoulder as the umpire prepared to bounce the ball. Tough stuff. Clark kicked two goals in the next four minutes and was later presented with the Simpson Medal as best player afield. Tough luck!
Simpson Medal winner Greg Clark. [Source: Les Everett]
Harry Marsh (three goals) helped Clark dominate the midfield, defenders Hayden Kennedy and Angus Dewar were outstanding, Will Hickmott kicked two goals in an enterprising display and Chad Harris caught the eye.
Chad Harris and the cup. [Source: Les Everett]
Toby McQuilkin was absolutely outstanding for South Fremantle. The young defender outpointed Brandon Matera and went on the attack when opportunities presented. Brock Higgins dominated the ruck and Chad Pearson again showed good leadership in the back line. The Bulldogs were under-manned and brave but need a new plan.
Subiaco, meanwhile, remains the benchmark.
Subiaco 13.7 (85) def South Fremantle 5.11 (41)
Coach & captain. Beau Wardman & Leigh Kitchin. [Source: Les Everett]
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About Les Everett
A Footy Almanac veteran, Les Everett is the author of Gravel Rash: 100 Years of Goldfields Football and Fremantle Dockers: An Illustrated History. Co-founder with Vin Maskell of scoreboardpressure.com. Founder of australianrules.com.au and the Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/abandonedcricketpitches/
Thanks for all your WAFL reports Les. Always great reading with better photos.
Strange game as you say. South Freo dominating possession and territory in the first half but seemed to be playing in a phone box. The light shower and greasy conditions seemed to hinder their ball handling and kicking more. Subiaco quick ball movement seemed to always be finding opportunities out the back. Endorse your McQuilkin comment – his sure ball handling (and long sleeves and locks) was a standout. Looks an AFL player for a team looking for a quick small defender.
Suban crossed the line on several occasions. Suspension won’t mean anything for an old player who’ll enjoy a longer off season. White Lyon Fever?
Good on you Les. As a subi supporter I loved the day, to which 3 Victorians contributed greatly: Harris, Kitchen and Delahunty. The three of them a running amuck around Perth as we speak, riding horses on leederville oval and adorning statues with subi gear.