Sunbury celebrates. Picture: Adam Trafford
FINALLY, it's Sunbury.The Ballarat Football League's bridesmaid of recent years has claimed the 2012 premiership, and in emphatic style.
The eastern Lions stunned Redan with a nine-goal opening term on the way to a 23.17 (155) to 15.8 (98) victory at Eastern Oval on Saturday.
In the process they more than made amends for their two point loss at the same venue last year.
"To lose last year by two points in my first year at Sunbury, and then to win by about 10 goals, it shows how much the group has improved," Sunbury coach Rick Horwood said.
"We had our doubters so it is pleasing for the playing group."
By half time Sunbury enjoyed a 62-point lead. Redan showed some character in the final quarter, kicking five goals to three, although the western Lions were never in a position to threaten.
Sunbury midfielder Jay Cheep was awarded the VCFL Medal for the best player on the ground, however the medal could have gone to any number of Sunbury players.
Simon Clarke was dominant in the forward line with seven goals, Ross Sleight came out better than even in his battle with Redan champion Jarrod Edwards, while Jame Lobb was outstanding, both as a playmaker in the middle and an effective small forward.
Ruckman Pat Cariss was also outstanding, winning his duel against Brett Dickinson and Nick Bye, while defender Brett Chambers played an almost faultless game at full back.
For Redan Dean Chester kicked four goals, while Tom Lamb and Blair Whelan offered something for the beaten Lions.It was Sunbury's first premiership since 2004.
BFL GRAND FINAL
Sunbury 9.7 16.11 20.16 23.17 (155) d Redan 3.1, 7.2, 10.4, 15.8 (98)
GOALS _ Sunbury : Simon Clarke 7, Xavier Linton 3, Jamie Lobb 3, Jay Cheep 2, Ross Sleight 2, Allan O'Connor 2, Mathew Medcraft 2, Cameron Mc Cabe, Jack Sullivan. Redan : Dean Chester 4, Grant Bell 2, Damien Horbury 2, Brenton Riordan 2, Tom Lamb 2, Mitchell Phelps, Callum Currie, Ashley Barker.
BEST _ Sunbury: Jay Cheep, Simon Clarke, Pat Cariss, Cameron Mc Cabe, Allan O'Connor, Ross Sleight. Redan: Blair Whelan, Grant Bell, Brenton Riordan, Dean Chester, Leigh Ryall.