By RHYS WOOSNAM - Division 3 Reserves
THE final game of the 2016 WRFL season will see Parkside take on minor premiers Tarneit in what is shaping up to be a battle of the titans.
Both teams were dominant throughout the regular season and finished first and second respectively, with only a single game separating the two mighty sides.
Tarneit will enter the contest very well rested, having defeated their future opponents in the qualifying final by 23-points.
The return bout should go down to the wire if Parkside’s victory over Wyndham is anything to go by.
In the preliminary final that would decide the second grand finalist for 2016, it came down to a dramatic final quarter in which Parkside stood tall.
Trailing at three quarter time by 19 points, they looked down and out, and their season over.
However, with their premiership hopes on the line, Parkside found another gear and kicked five goals to just one in the final stanza to clinch the game by four points.
The win was a true representation of the grit and determination that has led Parkside to the finals this year, and will give them a definite boost of confidence heading into the big one.
There is a danger that they may have played their grand final a week early, but if they keep up the current momentum, Tarneit will have a real fight on their hands.
Looking towards this Saturday’s premiership decider at the Wootten Road Reserve, it’s an incredibly hard one to tip.
The overall season form points to Tarneit, having finished top of the table and defeating Parkside mere weeks ago. They also are more superior in attack (averaging 111 points per game) and defensively (conceding just 30 points per game).
Parkside on the other hand have the match fitness and emotion driving them, which could be a major factor if its close towards the end.
If I were a betting man I would say that it’s Tarneit’s premiership in 2016, but by no more than three or four goals.
No matter what the result, it is sure to be a fiery contest and one that you should go out of your way to attend.
The WRFL season has been one full of ups and downs, and at 11:30 on September the 3rd, we will crown a new champion. Strap yourselves in.
Last Modified on 29/08/2016 16:55