DARLEY advanced to the second week of the finals with a convincing 62-point thumping of Sunbury on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A five-goal to nothing first term proved in many ways to be the difference between the two sides, with a change in weather ensuring that scoring became difficult after quarter time.
Dane Grenfell and Rhys Ellis played pivotal roles in a forward line that looked dangerous all day, Steve Kennedy and Nathan Lyons controlled the midfield and a best on ground performance in defence from the returning Jake Edwards was also a highlight.
It was a disappointing end to the year for Sunbury, who were clearly hurt by the prolific Darley start which saw them kick five unanswered goals. Darley coach Jarrod Edwards was understandably buoyed by the result and highlighted the dominant first term as a key factor in his sides win.
“Anyone who has been around long enough knows that you can’t give Sunbury head starts, because it’s very difficult to catch up,” he said.
While disappointed, Sunbury coach Rick Horwood acknowledged the efforts of his young side in what had been in many ways a developing year.
“We were beaten by a better side and our ball retention was really poor,” he said.
“Overall it was a good year, we have plenty to work with and lots of young guys that will continue to develop.”
Darley meets Redan with a chance to book an early grand final spot next week.