By NICK GALEA - Under-19's
The Altona Vikings are through to the 2017 WRFL Under-19 Grand Final after they held off a brave Yarraville Seddon Eagles to end their season by nine-points in the preliminary final.
In the first quarter it was the Eagles that made the early running, but they weren't able to get past Altona's organised defence as Lachlan Fox was able to intercept mark with ease.
Ryan Tandy was the terms only goal scorer helping the Vikings to a seven point lead at the first break, 1.2. (8) to 0.1. (1).
Yarraville hit back in the second term with majors to Max Lienert and Thomas Webster to take the lead after some strong passages of play on the right wing, but goals to Joel Menadue and Jack Reynolds in the shadows of half-time saw Altona in front.
Altona strengthened its hold on the game in the third quarter when majors to again Joel Menadue and Matthew Wright put Altona 23-points up with their fourth goal in a row.
It seemed the Vikings had Yarraville's measure, but the Eagles kept coming, willing themselves on the contest to wrestle back the momentum.
With a Grand Final spot on the line both sides threw everything they could in the last term.
Brandon Lester lead the charge for the Eagles as they bombarded the Vikings defence who were under enormous pressure and they slammed three goals in quick succession to give them hope of a courageous comeback.
As the minutes began to dwindle, the pressure continued to rise with the match turning into an arm wrestle where the next goal would probably be the last.
With the margin only three points in Altona's way, but the momentum with the Eagles, it was Tyson Roache who broke their hearts with a goal from the congestion putting the Vikings nine points up with a minute left to spark jubilant celebrations and realise what awaited them next week.
For Altona, Lachlan Fox and Maysen Murgov were the standouts whilst Daniel Pantalleresco backed up last weeks fine game with another strong performance.
Brandon Lester, Jake King and Connor Smillie did all they could and were the best for Yarraville who fought till the very end.
This Saturday at Whitten Oval the Werribee Districts will play off against the Altona Vikings for the premiership.
It promises to be another classic and heart stopper, much like their previous three encounters this season.
Last Modified on 11/09/2017 12:59