PDL | Gallery | Strathmerton wins arm-wrestle reserves decider

By Daniel Webb

Sep 12, 2022

On top: Strathmerton’s reserves celebrate their grand final win. Photo by Megan Fisher

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.

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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.

Good times: Strathmerton’s reserves embrace each other. Photo by Megan Fisher

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.

Solid performer: Strathmerton’s Jordan Cresanti had a good day for the Bulldogs. Photo by Megan Fisher

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.

Hands up: Strathmerton coach Jade Shannon said it was a good feeling to get the victory. Photo by Megan Fisher

“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.”

Out in front: Strathmerton’s Mick Keane beats Tungamah’s James Reily to the ball. Photo by Megan Fisher

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.”

Up and about: Strathmerton’s Daniel Buzza goes for a mark. Photo by Megan Fisher

Luke Collyer picked up the best-on-ground award for his efforts in 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.

Best-on-ground: Strathmerton’s Luke Collyer talks to the crowd. Photo by Megan Fisher

In a true showing of Strathmerton’s colours, the reserves football side went directly from its presentation to watch 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.