First Semi-Final (Ironbank Cherry Gardens v Macclesfield)

Reigning premier Ironbank Cherry Gardens have kept their dreams of back-to-back flags alive with a 36-point win over Macclesfield at Mt Pleasant. Ironbank Cherry Gardens started well kicking towards the scoreboard end kicking the first three goals but they were inaccurate kicking 3.4 to Macclesfield’s 1.1 to only lead by 15 points at the first break. The arm wrestle continued in the second quarter as the Thunderers extended their lead to 17 points at the long break with the Bloods playing coach Denis Iljcesen missing a tough shot on the siren which would’ve reduced the margin to an even two goals. Macclesfield started the third quarter well and had some chances to score but didn’t capitalise which left the door open for the Thunderers and they took the chance to kick four quick goals and take a 30-point lead into the last quarter. A further three goals to two saw the final score 13.8 (86) to 7.8 (50). Maccy were brave and have some very good young talent so watch out for them to improve next year. Ironbank Cherry Gardens were just too talented and experienced. Elijah Ware played a great game for the Thunderers kicking three goals and setting up many forward thrusts from half back with his ‘laser like’ kicking. He was supported by Adam Shearwood with four goals while Todd Pfeiffer and Levi Grigg also played excellent games. For Macclesfield Graydon Brand kicked three goals while Michael Smith, Brad Noske and Brodie Hart were the Bloods’ best.

Second Semi-Final (Gumeracha v Kersbrook)

Gumeracha have caused a major upset by knocking off the previously undefeated minor premier Kersbrook by two points in a high quality second semi-final at Kangarilla to book their spot in the Grand Final at Macclesfield on September 14. The Magpies last won an ‘A’ grade flag back in 1984. It looked like ‘business as usual’ for the Brookers as they streaked to a 36-point lead at half-time, with one foot already in the Grand Final. Gumeracha had other ideas as they hit back hard in the third term kicking seven goals to three and reducing the margin to just 10 points at the final change. Belief was high in the Magpies camp but Kersbrook weren’t going to lie down but inaccurate kicking (2.6) would haunt them as the Magpies slotted five straight goals to hang on and win 16.9 (105) to 15.13 (103). Gumeracha have scored and amazing 36.15 in their two finals so far. Brendon Moon and Sam Hanna each kicked four goals for Gumeracha while Josh Laube was a star up forward for Kersbrook kicking six majors. Ben Hanna was best on ground for Gumeracha and he was ably supported by Sam Hanna and Moon. Lachlan Peter, Bradley Pearce and Laube were best for the Brookers.