SPRINGBANK has earned a shot at redemption, winning its way into next weekend's Central Highlands Football League grand final after an epic battle with Bungaree.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Tigers landed a five-point victory at Learmonth on Saturday and will now meet the winner of Sunday's other preliminary final between Gordon and Ballan.
Springbank is looking to better its loss to Bungaree in last year’s decider and win its first premiership since 2001.
After an arm wrestle for the first half, Springbank broke clear of the Demons with three goals late in the third term.
And while they always looked the winners after that point, the GJ Gardner Tigers failed to close out the match and allowed the Demons to boot two late goals and close within five points before the final siren sounded.
Justin Simpson was used forward in the absence of injured spearhead Paul McMahon and kicked three goals in a good display, while veteran Simon Quinlan, North Ballarat Roosters-listed Nick Couch and youngster Joel Maher were among the Tigers’ best.
Luke Mirtschin showed some brilliance with three majors of his own to be one of the Demons' standouts, along with defender Nick Weightman and onballer Chris O’Keefe.
There didn't appear to be any serious injuries for Springbank ahead of the grand final and McMahon is expected to play despite missing Saturday's match with a quadriceps issue.
