Dingley has won its way through to the Division Two grand final. The Dingoes' 25-point win over Caulfield in Saturday's preliminary final at Clayton has earned them another crack at Springvale Districts before what is tipped to be a record grand final crowd. But it asn't all plain sailing for Adam Quinn's men. The Bears made them earn every kick and were never more than a kick or two away from an upset.While Saturday's game lacked the intensity and sense of occasion of the previous week's epic struggle, the closeness of the scores and Caulfield's dogged determination to make its mark in this finals series provided adequate fuel for another enthralling contest.The Dingoes' edge in the air through Chris Morgan and Clinton Brooks proved vital, although the brilliance of Justin Richardson and Paul O'Neill through the midfield for the Bears threatened to spoil Dingley's plans.Matt Smith was also winning plenty of the ball for Caulfield and after three hard-fought quarters, the Bears were only 13 points in arrears.Quinn asked his players for the first goal in the final quarter and it was Morgan who obliged with a long goal at the five-minute mark to stretch the lead to three goals. But the Bears' courageous skipper, Tom Siegert struck back before Andrew Frost booted his third to put the game beyond the brave Fieldsmen's reach.Dingley captain, Tony Lavars, led by example all day and he was well supported by dashing defender Josh Williams and the strong-marking Darren Andrews. Brett Gniel's experience in the clinches was a decided bonus for the Dingoes, while full-back Daniel Atkin and young defender James Farrugia were both outstanding. Frost, Quinn and Brooks booted three goals apiece for the winners. Among the many impressive players for the Bears were Jarrod Couper, Siegert and ruckman Heath Maclean, while spearhead Ryan McEvoy finished with three goals.
Dingley also defeated Caulfield in the reserves, winning an entertaining contest by 13 points.
The Dingoes will go into next week's grand final will a full list, with the sole exception of speedy winger, Steve DeBolfo, who suffered a broken collarbone in the second semi-final. "We we a little jaded today", Quinn admitted after the game. "It was never going to be easy. Caulfield was the underdog and had nothing to lose and they played very well. We're very happy to get through. "We're ready for the big one now." Dingley will meet Springvale Districts in both seniors and reserves, with veterans Nigel Scott and Rob Burns expected to be available for selection by the Demons. Century goalkicker Mark Williams is also expected to make a claim for selection after missing the second semi-final with a shoulder injury.
Written by Daryl for Leader Newspapers
Last Modified on 18/09/2007 12:00