The Devils stole a march in the first half to go away by 58 points.

As well as ending North Ballarat’s season, Darley also set up a massive second semi-final clash with arch-rival Bacchus Marsh at Darley Park next Saturday.

North coach Jordyn Burke conceded the outcome reflected where City was in the context of the season.

“Sixth on the ladder is probably where we are at,” he said.

“We had patches of good footy and our intensity was certainly there throughout the year.”

He said sides such as Darley though seemed to have a bit more quality than us.

Burke said the improvement it had made in the second half of the season had not only allowed it to reach finals, but also plan for 2018

“This would put the club in good stead for the future,” he said.

Darley coach Heath Scotland could not help but be impressed with his side’s efforts – praising the contribution of each player to the victory.

“We could single out a couple of blokes, but to be brutally honest I really think we had a good even contribution. There really wasn’t anyone who lost his position.”

Darley clearly had its mind set on a convincing performance as it dominated the first quarter, kicking five unanswered goals to a solitary point from North Ballarat City.

Brian Graham continued his super season, with his ability to hit the scoreboard as well as his disposal efficiency around the ground a real highlight.

While giving away a five- goal head start, Burke was still bullish about North’s chances of turning it around.

However, its hopes were dealt a serious blow when it conceded the first two goals of the second term and Darley consolidated for a 48-point half -time lead.

It was a more competitive North in the second half, but the game was out of reach as Darley remained in control.

Dane Grenfell (four goals) was again instrumental up forward for the Devils, while Luke Delahey (three goals) journeyed forward to kick scintillating running goals. and Des Leonard was again mister reliable.

Mitch Johns filled the role of a key forward for City with three majors. Sam Willian and Trent Hotchin were among North’s other better players in a season which finished all so quickly after a spirited revival.