By Christopher Kourtis.
The Grand Finals for both the BJS Veteran Men’s and Veteran Women’s leagues are right around the corner. After a great first week of finals, here’s what to expect as the remaining teams look to write themselves in the history books.
BJS Veteran Men’s Grand Final:
North Ringwood vs Waverley Blues
Both teams built off brilliant defensive performances last week to book their places in the Grand Final.
North Ringwood picked up a 64 point win against South Croydon, holding the visitors to single digits until the fourth quarter. North Ringwood enjoyed plenty of offensive success on their end as Leigh McCombe kicked six goals, bringing his season tally to 22.
The Waverley Blues beat Croydon North MLOC by 58 points. The Blues were led by Marc Watson, kicking 5 goals and picking up a best on ground vote.
This time around, North Ringwood will look to complete their undefeated season. The game is set to be a goal-fest, as league leader Andrew Swain (42 goals) will look to nullify North Ringwood’s Leigh McCombe (22 goals) and Paul Florance (19 goals). Waverley will call upon standout players Paul Savage (8 best on votes) and Matthew Sharpe (7 best on votes), whose performances this season have spurred the Blues on to the Grand Final.
Veteran Women’s Grand Final:
South Belgrave vs. Blackburn
Both Grand Finalists held their opponents to single digits in Week 1 of the finals.
South Belgrave held Mooroolbark scoreless in a 69 point win. To combine with a miraculous defensive display, South Belgrave had six different goal scorers on the day.
Blackburn held Chirnside Park scoreless throughout the first half, setting up a 34 point victory. Janelle Mccluskey continued her regular season form, kicking another three goals.
South Belgrave and Blackburn met twice throughout the regular season. The Saints won both, with a combined victory margin of 138 points.
The Grand Final will be nothing short of a spectacle. Blackburn will look to the league’s top goalscorer, Janelle Mccluskey (19 goals), to get them over the line.
It won’t be easy though, as South Belgrave boast the league’s next six best goalkickers, headlined by Anika Carr (16 goals).