Anthony Tucker
10 September 2019, 2:03 AM
Hills Football League (Division 2) - Preliminary Final
Kersbrook has won its way into the Hills Football League (Division 2) Grand Final with a 22-point victory over reigning premier Ironbank Cherry Gardens in the Preliminary Final at Callington on Saturday. The Brookers suffered a shock loss to Gumeracha in the Second Semi-Final last week and they had to battle hard to get past a gallant Ironbank Cherry Gardens in a rematch of last year’s Grand Final. After a low scoring and tense first half, Kersbrook led 5.5 to 5.2 and the game was set up for a classic finish. After kicking three goals to two in the third term, Kersbrook turned for home with a 12-point lead. Ironbank Cherry Gardens tried hard in the final stanza but their premiership defence ended as the game opened up as the minor premier Kersbrook kicked five goals to three to run out winners 13.10 (88) to 10.6 (66). Dillon Harding kicked five goals for the Brookers and Paul James kicked four. Jeremy Johncock booted five goals for the Thunderers and Adam Shearwood kicked two. Both Johncock and Shearwood finished on 48 goals for the season. 2019 Mail Medallist Lachlan Peter was best on ground for Kersbrook and he was ably supported by Jack Mozuras, James, Rob Nicholson and Harding. Ironbank Cherry Gardens was best served by Todd Pfeiffer, James Cross, Johncock, Henry Moss and Joel Van Paridon. Kersbrook will take on Gumeracha in the Grand Final and will be looking to atone for their two-point loss in the Second Semi-Final. Gumeracha are in search of their first ‘A’ grade flag since 1984.