IT WAS early in the third quarter and it seemed a sorry old tale for Sebastopol.
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The Burras were seven goals down and Melton had just slammed on three quick majors to start the term.
But then something change and out of nowhere, Sebastopol found itself storming back into the contest to trail by 19 points at the last break.
What would follow would be a heartstopping final quarter in which the Burras broke a three-year drought by stealing a last-minute four-point win, defeating the Bloods 13.5 (83) to 12.7 (79).
Star player Rowan Marshall kicked two goals at the 17 and 19-minute mark to put his side in front, before performing his heroics at the other end of the ground, marking a Jarryd Ramsey set shot from 40 metres out on the goal line.
There were scenes of jubilation when the final siren sounded and the Burra notched their first win since round 8, 2012.
“There was a lot of emotion around the place, it meant so much to a lot of people,” coach Shane Snibson said.
“To be honest we haven’t really practiced many game situations about holding on to a lead with three minutes so go, we haven’t had to.
“It was far too early for us just to shut up shop when we hit the lead but the boys held on to their credit.”
Marshall was once again a standout player for Sebastopol, also booting three goals, while Tyler O’Sullivan-Kirchner kicked four in his first game back from injury.
For Melton, Lachlan Hickey was best afield with four majors, while Ryan Davis and Liam Henderson contributed two apiece.
The Bloods have a realistic chance at redemption against Ballarat next week, while Sebastopol plays host to Darley.
Snibson said it was pivotal his side backed up the win with a strong performance against the strong Devils side.
“It was a great win but it’s just one win so we need to back it up again and put in a strong showing against Darley,” he said.