THERE is only one way to sum up Redan’s qualifying win over North Ballarat City – complete and utter domination.
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The well-oiled maroon and gold machine was far too good for the reigning premiers from start to finish, romping away to a 18.15 (123) to 8.9 (57).
Ferocious attacks on the ball, mark of the year contenders and elite disposal; the Lions had it all.
It could easily be argued it was Redan’s best performance of the year, such was its superiority.
Grant Bell was best on ground with five goals, while Dan Colbert was sensational at full forward with four majors.
Colbert took three hangers that had in the crowd in rapturous applause, most notably a piece of aerial brilliance in the goal square where he stood on a pack and marked on the line just before half time.
However, it was the desperation and team-first approach that would have left coach Eammon Gill most satisfied.
Right from the outset it was obvious it was Redan’s day.
The late withdrawal of Derick Micallef did North City’s scoring power no favours, especially with Marcus Darmody held goalless and Shaun Lyle quiet with just tow majors.
In fact, it took 27 minutes for North to open it’s account, with Tyler George kicking the first of his three goals just before quarter time.
Captain Simon McCartin fought hard in the midfield all day and Ryan Luke provided solid resistance down back, but the winners were few and far between for the reigning premiers.
Sam Bromley-Lynch also to injured his hamstring in the third quarter and took no further part in the match and is likely to miss the rest of the finals series.
Although just 19-points separated the two sides at half time, the match was over half way through the third quarter as Redan slammed on the first four goals.
In fact, the margin could have been greater had Redan not hit the post three times.
Jack Jess had one of the best matches of his career and showcased elite disposal, Brenton Riordan was ferocious in attack and Nick Sullivan showed no signs of not playing for four months.
Redan faces Darley next week with a spot in the grand final up for grabs, while North Cirty meets either Lake Wendouree or East Point in a knockout final.
