Remarkably, the win came with only 5 seconds left on the clock with Downlands holding a 5 point advantage until eventual match winner Paddy Castles snapped the winning goal from 5 metres out.
The game was dominated early by Downlands who booted the opening 3 goals of the game through Mac Lang (2) and Harry Ledner. At quarter time Downlands opened up a handy 17 point lead and it looked as though a blow out was on the cards.
Whatever St Josephs Coach Rodney Spaine said to his players at quarter time worked and they grinded their way back into the game with 3 second quarter goals of their own. Tall forward Paul Aleer booted 2 majors for the term and when crafty wingman Blair Burcher booted a long range goal late in the quarter St Josephs went into the main break with a tight 2 point lead.
The third quarter was a real arm wrestle with only 1 goal scored through the boot of St Joseph’s player Paddy Castles. Downlands also had their opportunities but could only manage 3 behinds for the quarter.
The last term was great viewing with Downlands hitting back with the opening goal through Josh O'Donoghue and when Harry Ledner kicked his second for the game late in the quarter it looked as though Downlands were going to pinch the win.
However St Josephs weren't going to lie down that easily and after 2 strong attacking raids were repelled by the Downlands defence Jarron Miller belted the ball deep into attack for the final time for the game. Enter game winner Paddy Castles who roved the front of the pack and snapped the winning goal in dramatic circumstances.
The final siren followed almost immediately after the goal resulting in wild celebrations from the St Josephs players and coaching staff. For Downlands this was a heart breaking loss but they salvaged some credit from the day with on baller John Patterson winning the MVP award for best player throughout the series. Downlands Captain also walked away with the leading goal scorer medallion.
But the day belonged to St Josephs and the win was their first championship win at U15 level. On Baller Jarron Miller was named best on ground for st Josephs slightly ahead of full back Hayden Brown who was terrific in defence for his team all day.
Congratulations to both teams on what was a great spectacle and a big thank you to the coaching staff from both teams who did a great job all season
Last Modified on 17/11/2010 14:59